Wherever I go and whatever I do, I’m always greeted with, “Where did you buy those sneakers? Those are fire.” And while there are dozens of sneaker stores across the globe, it’s fair to say that no two are the same. While you might find your gems at your local shop, finding the right (or rare) pair of sneakers requires a bit of hunting. You’re not going to find the best of the best at your local retailer. You need to find the best sneaker stores. Here is a list of some of the most famous sneaker stores around the globe.
1. Flight Club
Flight Club is a New York City-based sneaker consignment shop (although they also have branches in Miami and Los Angeles) that is considered by many to be the holy grail of sneaker stores. The store carries an extensive collection of rare and hard-to-find sneakers, making it a must-visit destination for sneakerheads from all over the world. Expect to see the coolest and most fly Nike, PUMA, adidas, and Air Jordan kicks in the store.
And while there’s nothing like seeing your favourite shoe in hand in the store, you can also visit their online store: www.flightclub.com.
2. KITH
KITH is a multi-brand sneaker and streetwear retailer that originated in New York City. The store has expanded to locations in Miami, Los Angeles, and Tokyo and is known for its impressive selection of limited-edition collaborations and exclusive releases.
One of the great things about KITH is that they now ship worldwide (and also allow you to shop in your local currency). While there’s an awesome app to make your buying easier, you can also check out the premium sneaker store online: kith.com
3. Solebox
Solebox is a sneaker boutique based in Berlin, Germany that specializes in premium and limited-edition footwear. The store has a sleek, minimalist design and carries a range of popular brands, including Nike, Asics, Reebok, Puma, New Balance, Saucony and more.
4. Sneakersnstuff
Sneakersnstuff is a Swedish-based sneaker store that has gained a cult following for its curated selection of sneakers and apparel. The store has a strong online presence, but also has brick-and-mortar locations in Stockholm, London, and Paris.
5. Undefeated
Undefeated is a Los Angeles-based sneaker and streetwear boutique that has become known for its collaborations with major brands like Nike and adidas. The store has a minimalist aesthetic and carries a mix of classic and contemporary sneakers.
6. Concepts
Concepts is a Boston-based sneaker store that has gained a reputation for its creative and unexpected collaborations with major brands. The store has a wide range of sneakers and streetwear and is known for its unique in-store experiences and events.
7. END.
END. is a UK-based retailer that carries a mix of high-end fashion and streetwear brands. The store has a strong online presence, but also has brick-and-mortar locations in London, Glasgow, and Newcastle. END. is known for its exclusive collaborations and limited-edition releases.
8. Livestock
Livestock is a Canadian sneaker and streetwear retailer that has locations in Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary. The store has a curated selection of sneakers from major brands like Nike and adidas, as well as independent labels.
9. Footpatrol
Footpatrol is a London-based sneaker store that has become a go-to destination for sneakerheads in the UK. The store has a range of sneakers from major brands like Nike and adidas, as well as collaborations and limited-edition releases.
10. Shelflife
Founded in 2006 by Nick Herbert, Shelflife is a South African sneaker and streetwear boutique that has become a major player in the global sneaker industry. The store has a loyal following of customers from all over the world, thanks to its impressive selection of sneakers, apparel, and accessories from both major brands and up-and-coming designers. Over the years, Shelflife has expanded to include two additional stores in Johannesburg and a thriving e-commerce platform that ships to customers around the world (not just South Africa). The store has also collaborated with major brands on exclusive releases, including a highly sought-after Nike Air Jordan 1 collaboration in 2019 and the Shelflife x Air Jordan 2 in 2022. Tell us which sneaker stores you consider to be the best. What other famous sneaker stores are we missing?
