Image via Complex Original
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Half of the sneaker game is knowing what kicks are out when, and which shops have them. Our Shelf Space column looks at what shops around the country are stocking in a given week, and gives a quick glimpse into the mind of the buyer/manager/owner who put them there.
As we continue our mission of bringing you the insides of the best sneaker spots from around the U.S., we headed to the DMV and stopped in at MAJOR, located in Washington, D.C.. The shop owner, Duk-ki, gave us a look at 10 of the newest sneakers currently sitting on the store shelves. Hit the thumbnails and arrows above to see their picks, and to read what Duk-ki has to say about each one.
*MAJOR was closed down due to a building collapse next door on Thanksgiving Day 2011, effectively wiping out its entire Holiday 2011 season and beyond. After a 3 month hiatus, MAJOR is back as MAJOR NEXTDOOR PopUp Store inside 1432 Wisconsin Ave. NW until the original building's structure is restored. Founder Duk-ki Yu says that the new & improved version of the original shop will be back soon, once the restoration is completed. In the meantime, they continue to serve our Nation's Capital with the best that each sneaker company has to offer.*
nb one
New Balance ML999GT, $110
MAJOR says: "The 999 has been one of the most sought-after New Balance retro models since the Concepts' 'Kennedy' collab in 2011. This clean silhouette has enough teal highlights to stand out in a crowd."
converse
Stüssy x Converse Elm LS, $85
MAJOR says: "The latest collaboration between Converse First String and the Stüssy Tribe is a great one, with premium leather and boot laces that gives this a luxurious feel."
nike ralston
Nike Air Ralston LT Low, $110
MAJOR says: "Where is the Swoosh on this shoe? Is it even a sneaker? One of our edgier selections, it has been a favorite of grown folks, as Nike's designers definitely outdid themselves on this one."
jordan
Air Jordan Retro XI Low, $140
MAJOR says: "It's been over 10 years since Jordan released the original low versions of the patent-based XI, and by keeping it clean and simple, this one is definitely a keeper."
nb two
New Balance M1300DB, $140
MAJOR says: "Made in the USA for better quality and a subtle blue denim tone throughout the shoe makes this 1300 another high-demand item for the summer."
converse two
Stüssy x Converse Sea Star LS, $85
MAJOR says: "Converse, Stüssy, deck shoe and camo: All of this makes it an instant cop!"
woven
Nike Air Woven QS, $140
MAJOR says: "For Euro Cup 2012, Nike released various colors of Air Wovens throughout different regions. The U.S. got the black/white version, and this obsidian/red/white version. Our customers love Wovens, so it's a perfect match."
kobe
Nike Zoom Kobe VII "Poison Dart Frog 'Lakers'", $140
MAJOR says: "It's NBA Playoff time, and that means a whole bunch of playoff versions of your favorite players' signature models. And this "Poison Dart Frog" Kobe in Lakers colors really show who's ready to strike."
am1
Nike Air Max 1, $100
MAJOR says: "Nothing represents a clean summer look like a fresh pair of AM1s. The original Air Max will always be a classic!"
converse three
Converse Pro Leather Mid Waffle Canvas, $85
MAJOR says: "The irony of making the Pro Leather in a natural waffle canvas is the genius of this whole creation. Once again, Converse First String takes an iconic simplicity to a new level with this. This is definitely the staff's favorite summer shoe!"