Credit where credit is long overdue
The sneakers industry earns more than 70 billion dollars of revenue each year. Yet, the originators of sneaker culture see less than 5% of that revenue. So this Black History Month, eBay, the OG sneaker marketplace, retraced the steps of Black sneaker history and launched, “The Footprint.”
The social-native docu series weaved through four eras of Black influence that gave the sneaker game its footing and featured iconic pioneers of Black influence on the sneaker game, such as Dapper Dan, D’Wayne Edwards, Aleali May, and Frank Cooke. We also gave love to some of the most famous sneakers that originated in Black culture like the Puma Clyde’s, New Balance 740 Worthy, Air Jordan 1 ‘Satin Shadow’ and many more.
The comment section blew up. Streetwear and fashion legends like June Ambrose and Va$htie shared and showed love. And most importantly, our entire community came together to give credit where it was long overdue by honoring The Footprint of Black Sneaker History.
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Chapter 1: Building Blocks
In the early 70s, sneaker culture's foundation was built
on the streets of Black neighborhoods in NY as part of the emerging aesthetic of hip-hop.
Chapter 2: Breakthrough
Sneakers first gained mainstream appeal as a staple of 80s and 90s hip-hop fashion and the rise of professional basketball as a national pastime. Black creators and athletes led both.
Chapter 3: The Takeover
In the 2000s, the game got taken to the next level through the rise of social media. Collabs, colorways, and a global community gave the culture new life.
