The Rise of Sneaker Culture

This exhibition includes 155 sneakers and follows the evolution of the sneaker from its origins in the mid-nineteenth century to its role in the present day as a status symbol of urban culture and marker of masculine identity. Originating at the Bata Shoe Museum, The Rise of Sneaker Culture examines the sneaker's complex social history and immense cultural significance. 

Included are works from the archives of manufacturers such as Adidas, Converse, Nike, Puma, and Reebok as well as private collectors such as hip-hop legend Darryl "DMC" McDaniels, sneaker guru Bobbito Garcia, and Dee Wells of Obsessive Sneaker Disorder. Also featured are sneakers by Prada and other major fashion design houses and designers as well as those made in collaboration with artists including Damien Hirst and Kanye West. 

Film footage, interactive media, photographic images, and design drawings contextualize the sneakers and explore the social history, technical innovations, fashion trends, and marketing campaigns that have shaped sneaker culture over the past two centuries. 

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website