Some wear hats that perfectly complement a shirt. Others can rock the neckerchief with aviators and diamond earrings. Some are brave enough to try the Gucci handbag. But for many, a fresh pair of Nikes is the only way.
Nike first hit the scene in 1964 under the name Blue Ribbon Sports, but was changed to the name of Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, in 1978. The very first shoe to carry the well-known "swoosh" logo was a soccer cleat made in 1971.
From there, Nikes have transformed throughout the years with hits such as the Hi-Top Dunk, the Court Force, the Vandal, the Air Force, more recently the Nike SB and, of course, the legendary Jordan brand.
Nikes have transformed from a purely athletic shoe to a steadfast, cultural icon. No more are Nikes strictly for the soccer field, track, basketball court or tennis court. Nikes are now worn for the flash and the envious stares.
"When I'm walking some place and I see someone staring at my kicks, it's the best feeling in the world," journalism sophomore Kevin Lee says.
Lee, who is getting back into the "sneaker game" after taking a short break, says he understands Nikes aren't just shoes anymore: they're a lifestyle and a culture.
"Once you're in, you're in," Lee says. "You can't get out." He purchased his first pair of Nike SB's three years ago.
The sneaker game isn't strictly a man's domain. Women also enjoy collecting and strutting in Nikes. "I like the Low Dunks," journalism sophomore Jessica Lutjemeyer says. "I usually pick what I feel is stylish, and not too expensive."
Color schemes and unique styles are two of the biggest factors for Nike aficionados. Mechanical engineering junior Dustin Fisher agrees, saying, "I like whatever is different, and Nike has styles that are just out of this world." Fisher's sneaker of choice: the Nike Air Force 1.
Some in the "sneaker game" also try to color coordinate their outfit for the day with the color of their Nikes. "I usually just wear them," Lutjemeyer says. "I don't really try to match everything together. But it works anyway."
Nikes have become a point of pride. For those deep in the "sneaker game," Nikes, with their usually steep price, are an investment.
"You can get a pair of newly released Nikes for $70 or $80. Wait a few months, and when they are sold out, you can re-sell them for as much as you want," Lee says. He says the most he has ever spent on a pair of Nikes was $150.
One of the more subtle nuances of collecting is the cleaning. "Nikes have got to be clean," Lee says. "It's all about the look, and the look can't be dirty."
Whether the ensemble is topped off with a diamond-studded chain or a Burberry scarf, one thing remains constant: Nikes never fail.
