Tonight, the WWE will hold Wrestlemania 31 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. In the main event, fresh face Roman Reigns will challenge former UFC star Brock Lesnar for the Undisputed World Heavyweight Championship, which he’s held since last August.
Reigns and Lesnar aren’t likely to show up in a #SoleWatch anytime soon, but quite a few of their co-workers are. Over the years, some of the world’s best grapplers have swapped traditional boots for sneakers — now more than ever. From icons like Hulk Hogan to rookies like Enzo Amore, there’s a sneakerhead uprising taking place in the squared circle.
Many factors have contributed to the change, both style and performance-oriented. In an interview with Under the Mat last year, former WWE star Mason Ryan explained why some wrestlers prefer sneakers to boots.
"Boots tend to be heavier and hard to move in," said Ryan. "So if you add a pair of sneakers or tennis shoes, it's almost better because they're lighter."
15-time world champion John Cena, the current face of the company, even has his own line of 'Never Give Up' kids sneakers that sells at K-Mart.
Four years ago, we published SneakerMania, a gallery highlighting the best sneaker sightings in the history of professional wrestling. Gearing up for tonight's big show, here’s the sequel showcasing the best since.
AJ Lee
Tonight, the WWE will hold Wrestlemania 31 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. In the main event, fresh face Roman Reigns will challenge former UFC star Brock Lesnar for the Undisputed World Heavyweight Championship, which he’s held since last August.
Reigns and Lesnar aren’t likely to show up in a #SoleWatch anytime soon, but quite a few of their co-workers are. Over the years, some of the world’s best grapplers have swapped traditional boots for sneakers — now more than ever. From icons like Hulk Hogan to rookies like Enzo Amore, there’s a sneakerhead uprising taking place in the squared circle.
Many factors have contributed to the change, both style and performance-oriented. In an interview with Under the Mat last year, former WWE star Mason Ryan explained why some wrestlers prefer sneakers to boots.
"Boots tend to be heavier and hard to move in," said Ryan. "So if you add a pair of sneakers or tennis shoes, it's almost better because they're lighter."
15-time world champion John Cena, the current face of the company, even has his own line of 'Never Give Up' kids sneakers that sells at K-Mart.
Four years ago, we published SneakerMania, a gallery highlighting the best sneaker sightings in the history of professional wrestling. Gearing up for tonight's big show, here’s the sequel showcasing the best since.
