Feb 18, 2024,07:55pm EST
Former President Donald Trump made waves at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia with the debut of his latest footwear creation, a dazzling high-top sneaker that garnered attention for its striking style and freshness. Embraced by many urban fashion enthusiasts who deemed it as “going hard,” Trump’s new shoe swiftly sold out within a mere two hours of its release.
Dubbed the ‘Never Surrender High-Tops,’ these shoes boast a bold gold design with a red and white bottom trim, adorned with red and blue American flags featuring metallic gold stars along the uppers. Described as “bold, gold, and tough, just like President Trump,” each of the 1,000 pairs made comes with its own unique number, with Trump himself autographing 10 of them. The exclusivity of these sneakers typically appeals to sneakerheads, although they are currently unavailable for purchase, leaving enthusiasts to ponder if they would acquire them if given the chance.
At Sneaker Con, attendees proudly displayed signs declaring their admiration with slogans like “Sneakerheads Love Trump.” However, it remains uncertain how many of them share this sentiment, their demographics, and where they reside. Typically, sneakerheads are millennial males, with a significant proportion being Black, predominantly found in urban areas.
Despite Philadelphia’s diverse population, where Black individuals constitute a significant demographic, Trump’s limited support within these communities suggests that his sneakers may not find their way into many closets there. Historically, Black Americans have shown minimal support for Trump in presidential elections, making it unlikely for them to embrace his products, regardless of their appeal.
While the price point of $399 for a pair of high tops may deter some consumers, the allure of exclusive releases often prompts enthusiasts to splurge. Urban sneaker culture, deeply rooted in Black hip-hop influences, plays a significant role in driving sales of new shoe drops, primarily championed by Black cultural influencers.
Trump’s sneakers, though rare and likely to be showcased at his campaign rallies, may not be prominently seen in Black neighborhoods or cities where his support is limited. However, loyal Trump supporters can explore alternative styles available for pre-order on his website, as the ‘Never Surrender High-Tops’ remain a limited-edition collector’s item.