Image via Complex Original
One of the most important parts of the sneaker game is the local sneaker boutique. Sure, Foot Locker and Finish Line hold it down for tons of people around the world but there is nothing that compares to supporting your local sneaker store. Having a personal connection with the owners and workers can make a huge difference in how you feel when you're dropping 200-300 bucks on kicks every week. That said, not all sneaker stores are supportive of sneakerheads or their "unique" spending habits when it comes to sneakers. However, there are some surefire signs that you should take note of if you're not feeling the love from your local sneaker spot. Check out 15 Signs Your Local Sneaker Store Hates Sneakerheads and let us know if your local spot has it out for you.
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They type "unlike" on all your pictures on Instagram.
If this happens they probably just hate you. Or, you have an insane sneaker collection that makes them so jealous that they can't control themselves. In which case, they shouldn't be in business anyway.
They "claim" they only have your size in the Skecher shape-ups.
Clearly the only reason you should be in this store is for the MILFs, not the sneakers.
They don't give you store branded bags when you buy something. They give you a plastic bag from the local supermarket.
When you cop something from your local spot, you want people to recognize that fact. Sure it's free advertising for the store, but it makes you look better too. You don't want to leave a boutique looking like you just came from a swap meet. A store should be cognizant of the whole experience from start to finish. If they skimp in one area, expect them to skimp in others.
They always ask for ID and the cashier is your cousin.
Who does this?!?!
They try to sell you custom-fit orthopedics with a pair of Air Force 1s.
To the average Joe, Air Force 1s might be an old shoe from the '80s but to some sneakerheads, you would think they're the meaning of life. If you're local sneaker store isn't addicted to fresh, they might try to convince you that AF1s need added comfort. If this is the case, clearly you are too young to be shopping there and they don't appreciate sneakerheads.
When they asked you to be a part of the new season look book, they meant they wanted you to carry equipment.
Do they not respect your fresh out the box Air Jordans? Do they not know how many Twitter followers you have? Do they not realize how much of a tastemaker and influencer you are? Did they not realize that you're so e-famous you've been "interviewed" by at least three friends that have blogs? Clearly they don't understand you or your sneaker game.
They have a treadmill on the sales floor.
If you're a runner, this is a good thing, but if you're copping to collect, um, no one needs to know how Air Max 90s or ZX 5000s feel on foot. Because, you know, no one has run in them in 25 years. Cross that spot off the list.
They tell you that every sneaker on the wall is "the last size," even though it's not.
Sales tactics are sales tactics but when you're a small boutique, you should be able to treat your customers better than a big chain retailer. Not worse.
They sell Crocs.
Homie don't play that.
They blocked you on Twitter.
Unless you are one of the truly talented trolls out there, this should never happen. Especially if it's your neighborhood sneaker store. You should be supporting them and they should be supporting you. That's how it works. Support your local.
Limited number of brands.
Everyone carries Nike, adidas and Reebok. If your local boutique isn't bringing in a variety of styles, they're doing your community a disservice. Local shop owners have the opportunity to try out different brands, it's one of the best things about NOT being a chain store.
No online options.
Hell, even though their shop is in the neighborhood, sneakerheads are lazy. Sometimes they just want to do everything from their parent's basement. No online options? Do these shops expect 'heads to be social? Get real.
They only carry select sizes
You wear a 13 or 14? No soup for you.
They don't allow camping.
Yeah, sure, wristbands make things neater, and no one has to sort out where the open bathroom is at 4 a.m.. But like it or not, camping out for sneakers is a big part of the experience, and to do away with it entirely is to get rid of something good.
They only carry general releases.
"Tier what?"