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In a celebration of the deep-rooted connection between hip hop culture and sneaker design, StockX shared a rundown of some of the most important silhouettes in hip hop history last December. These iconic sneakers were featured in a special exhibit at the Museum of Graffiti, highlighting the impact of footwear on the evolution of hip hop style and culture.
Check out these iconic sneakers from StockX that illustrate classic footwear over the years in sneaker history:
1980s
Puma Clyde from B-Boy Sero, 1982
- N/A
- Unavailable on StockX. Currently on loan.
The Puma Clyde, made famous by New York Knicks’ star Walt “Clyde” Frazier, found a second life in the 1980s as a favorite among B-boys and graffiti artists. B-Boy Sero’s pair from 1982 is a testament to the sneaker’s influence in hip-hop and street culture.
Adidas Superstars from Graffiti Artist GHOST, 1989
- N/A
- Unavailable on StockX. Currently on loan.
The Adidas Superstar, immortalized by Run-D.M.C., was also a canvas for graffiti artists like GHOST. His 1989 pair reflects the sneaker’s deep roots in the world of hip-hop and street art.
1990s
K-Swiss Si-18 from Graffiti Artist Ket One, 1993
- N/A
- Unavailable on StockX. Currently on loan.
The K-Swiss Si-18, often overshadowed by other brands, found its place in sneaker history through collaborations with artists like Ket One. His 1993 pair showcases the intersection of athletic performance and urban art.
Def Jam 25th Anniversary x Adidas Forum Hi, 2009
- N/A
- Unavailable on StockX. Currently on loan.
Commemorating the influential Def Jam Recordings, this Adidas Forum Hi celebrates the label’s 25th anniversary, merging music and sneaker culture in a unique way.
Fila Grant Hill 2 25th Anniversary White
In the mid-90s, Fila made a significant impact with the Grant Hill 2. NBA star Grant Hill’s outstanding performances helped catapult the shoe to fame, becoming a cultural icon worn by celebrities like 2Pac.
2000s
Nike P Rod 1 Elite Futura
Graffiti artist Futura’s collaboration with Nike SB produced the distinctive Nike SB x Futura Zoom Air P-Rod 1, blending street art with skate culture.
Jordan Retro 10 Drake OVO Black
Before establishing his NOCTA line, Drake’s partnership with Jordan Brand began with exclusive releases like the Jordan 10 OVO Black, highlighting the Toronto rapper’s influence in the sneaker world.
Jordan 2 Retro Eminem (The Way I Am)
Eminem’s take on the Jordan 2, limited to 313 pairs, is one of the most coveted releases, celebrating his 2008 book “The Way I Am” and Detroit roots.
2010s
Reebok Instapump Fury Stash
Graffiti artist Stash brought his signature blue hues to the Reebok Instapump Fury for its 20th anniversary, adding a unique touch to the classic silhouette.
Vans Old Skool A Tribe Called Quest
This collaboration pays homage to the iconic hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest, integrating their album artwork into the timeless Vans Old Skool design.
Jordan 4 Retro KAWS
KAWS’ collaboration with Jordan Brand on the Jordan 4 brought his distinct artistic elements to the classic sneaker, making it a highly sought-after item in the resell market.
Jordan 3 Retro DJ Khaled Grateful
In honor of his album “Grateful,” DJ Khaled teamed up with Jordan Brand for a special edition of the Jordan 3, reflecting his love for the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls.
2020s (Present Day)
Jordan 4 Retro Travis Scott Cactus Jack
Travis Scott’s collaboration with Jordan Brand on the Jordan 4 introduced a vibrant blue suede to the classic silhouette, cementing his status as a key player in sneaker culture.
Adidas Superstar 50 Run-D.M.C. White
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Adidas Superstar, this collaboration honors Run-D.M.C.’s influential role in making the sneaker a hip-hop mainstay.
Adidas NMD HU Pharrell Human Made White Red
Pharrell Williams continues to innovate with Adidas, bringing his Human Made label’s unique touch to the NMD silhouette, known for its bold designs and modern updates.
Jordan 1 High Zoom Air CMFT 2 Teyana Taylor A Rose From Harlem
Teyana Taylor’s collaboration with Jordan Brand reflects her Harlem roots, with intricate rose motifs and bold design elements adorning the Jordan 1 High Zoom Air CMFT 2.
Reebok Club C Cardi B Footwear White
Cardi B’s partnership with Reebok brought new life to the classic Club C, with her unique styles leaving a lasting impact on the brand’s sneaker catalog.
From the classic Puma Clyde to the contemporary designs of Teyana Taylor and Cardi B, these sneakers showcased at the Museum of Graffiti illustrate the evolving intersection of fashion, music, and street culture, cementing their place in sneaker history.
