Men's fashion guides

Sneaker Hall Of Fame: Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2

The Sneaker Hall Of Fame is FashionBeans’ compendium of the most iconic trainer designs of all time. From the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 to the Nike Air Force One, these are the kicks that have changed the course of footwear history.

What makes a good sneaker design? It’s subjective of course, but there are certain shoes almost everyone can agree look good: Adidas Stan Smith, Converse All Stars, Vans Old Skool. The Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 is not like them. It’s far from classic in design. Yet the Kanye West-designed shoe is one of the most hyped trainers in recent memory, and those who like them really like them.

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The Yeezy 350 is ugly. Deliberately so. Its sole is wide and bloated and its all-in-one sock-like upper occasionally has ‘SPLY-350’ scribbled across it garishly. But, as you’ve probably noticed, ugly, chunky trainers have never been so popular, which is partly why every time a new colour way drops it almost instantly sells out.

Then there’s the hype factor, in part generated by Kanye himself, as he’s regularly pictured wearing Yeezys, as well as the limited edition drops, which ensure trainer connoisseurs’ appetites are never truly satisfied. Demand always triumphs over supply, meaning sneaker reselling prices tend to skyrocket on sites like eBay and StockX. Want a pair at retail value yourself? You’ll have to queue.

Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2: A History Of Hype

Somehow it feels as though Yeezys have been around forever. Maybe it’s the over-saturation of Kanye in the press, or his often ill-advised excessive tweeting that’s ensured he and his brand get constant coverage. But, the first pair of Adidas Yeezys were only released in 2015.

Kanye West wearing 350 V2 Zebra

It didn’t take long for them to gain traction thanks to Kanye’s much-hyped fashion shows, which initially, each season, debuted the shoes on its models. It was a fairly conventional system – the shoes were shown on the catwalk, then made available shortly after. These days though, new colourways are released sporadically throughout the year, meaning you have to keep an eye on Instagram if you want a pair.

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