Friday, December 23, 2011

Jordan xi concord: More things change they stay the same.

I get it this is the most anticipated shoe of the year. But there is absolutely no reason for senseless violence. I mean I can respect all aspects of the sneaker game. Reseller, hypebeast, collector, and I even understand the thinking behind the folks at JB that over hype and over price these kicks. The only thing I can't figure out is the "jacker". How do you just wake up on release day and say. You know what, if I don't get them J's I'm going to take em. Unfortunately this has been going on for just about as long as the brand has been around. And as long as we live in a society full of people that can't seem to grow balls and get things done like human beings we will always hear stories like the ones that have started to surface. Condolences to those who lost there loved ones or ended up hospitalized over a sneaker. It's a sad sad day.

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Nike Christmas pack

Nike Christmas Pack

This holiday season Nike has packed quite a punch with all the sneakers being released and though it may be the most sought after shoe things don't stop with the Concords. Releasing online Christmas day and in store on the 26th Nike has another 3 shoe pack. Similar to last years the trio consists of a Lebron, a Kobe, and a Durant.
* note shoes are sold separately.

Today was a good day.

Today marks the release of not one but three major Nike releases. The KD IV nerf $125, the Lebron 9 China $170, and the Jordan xiv last shot $160. Any of the 3 would be a nice addition to any collectors stash but unlike years past today the Jordan isn't the most sought after shoe in the line up. To my surprise it isn't the Lebron either. That's right folks the KD IV is the shoe at the top of everyone's list. I for one can see why, the special packaging the lower price and the fact that the color way is insane makes this a must cop. If you live near a House of Hoops I'd check them out they may have some left but given the fact that some camped out for 3 or more days for these kicks chances are they're sold out. Looks like the King and the GOAT have a little competition.

December 17, 2011 releases

Friday, December 16, 2011

Food for thought: Is Jordan Brand ruining it's legacy?

I spend a lot of time talking to others in the sneaker community about Jordan's and the direction of the numbered sneaker line. Especially all those that came after the xviii. Many will agree that after this shoe JB seemed to stray away from style to focus more on performance. Even more evidence of this is clear with the Jordan models following the 23rd numbered model. These shoes, in my opinion, have little to no use other than basketball sneakers. With that being said is it good that JB focuses on performance footwear, I mean they are a basketball sneaker company. Or should the shoes maintain some level of style, so we can rock feel confident rocking at the mall as well as the gym. Are you ok with paying these rising prices for a sneaker that isn't stylish enough for casual wear? Who knows maybe JB has it right remember Jordan himself thought the Jordan 1 was ugly and the Jordan 11 didn't get a warm reception at first either. So maybe just maybe ten years from now people will be camping out to get the Jordan 2010 as retros. I seriously doubt it but I've been wrong before.

Food for thought: Is Jordan Brand ruining its legacy?

In recent years many sneakerheads have complained about the poor quality or the retro line of Jordan's being sold. Everything thing from sloppy craftsmanship to low quality materials. I own many retros and have had a few og's and can say there is a distinct difference in quality. Is it reason for alarm or a sign of the times? I mean I'm sure materials and labor were much cheaper in 86' than they are now but shouldn't the price hikes we keep getting hit with cover those expenses. One may never know but one thing is for sure as long as we keep lining up to spend our money on subpar sneakers they will never get any better. Simple answer, check them out before you buy. Stores get shipments in weeks before the actual release. Ask the clerk if you could see a pair. Many stores even have one on display. Once you have seen it if you don't like the quality don't buy. This is a major concern and many heads have video comparisons and all kinds of stuff out there. Just do a google search and check some of it out.

Escape Capsule waterproof case. To learn more go to Catalyst Lifestyle

KEY FEATURES AND BENEFITS:

  • Waterproof, rigid, high impact polycarbonate housing sealed with a silicon O-ring.
  • The touchscreen works great through the built-in optically perfect high impact polycarbonate screen protector.
  • The home, volume and lock buttons function through membranes that are built into the overall structure of the shock absorbing internal rubber bumper.
  • The cameras front and rear both work through the clear housing and provide great quality photos and videos.
  • Watertight plug that allows you to use your iPhone headphones to listen to music or make hands free phone calls.
  • Specifically designed membranes allow sound to transfer through the case to make clear phone calls.



Thursday, December 15, 2011

Food for thought: Drop to Cop

The drop to cop method is nothing new to many sneaker fiends especially with the recent economic climate. But for those that may not understand drop to cop, here is the break down. Lets say, a major release is on the horizon and your funds are kind of low. To avoid missing out on the release you sell or "drop" some of your older kicks in order to "cop" or buy the new ones. I can't count the number of times I've utilized this method. And with the help of EBay, I haven't had to pass on too many pairs I really wanted. Just a little something to think about. If you've done this before let me know. Were you happy with the decision or end up regretting it later on?

Latest pickup: LeBron 8V2 Entourage (again)

Latest pickup: Air Jordan XIII altitude 2010

Air Jordan 2012

Air Jordan 2012

A few more pictures of the Air Jordan 2012 have surfaced on the net. Judging from the looks of things Jordan is geared more towards performance than looks this go around. The shoes seems to feature a fully removable bootie and insole. Virtually making the leather/fly wire portion of the shoe not much more than a shell. Although this is the first time I've seen JB use this system sneakerheads may recall Nike using it many years ago on the Scottie Pippen signature line. From a fashion stand point the shoes don't look like much but performance wise may be JB's greatest creation only time will tell.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Great moments in "Concord" history

Great moments in "Concord" history

Great moments in "Concord" history.

I told you Foams were hot.

Jordan 8.0 Aqua

Air Jordan 8.0 Aqua 2012

If you're anything like me you have always wanted to play ball in a pair
of Jordan 8's. Yet due to the fragile nature of these shoes and how hard they are to come by, playing in retro 8's just doesn't make much sense. Until now. With the arrival of the new Jordan 8.0 you get the classic look of the retro 8 and the performance of an up to date basketball sneaker. Zoom air, fly wire, and improved traction and durability make this a must have sneaker. What do you think about this upcoming JB release?

Monday, December 12, 2011

Trident Kraken AMS

Trident Kraken AMS adaptive modular system.

The Trident Kraken Ams is a new twist on an old favorite. Before settling down with my current LifeProof case I was using the dockable Trident Kraken 2. The Kraken AMS is an evolved version of that case. Adaptive modular system actually means you get two cases in one. A thin silicone cover for regular use and a tough polycarbonate shell for more rugged use. Thus allowing the case to "adapt" to users needs. As always all ports are covered and screen shield is built right in. Case fits both Iphone 4 & 4s and comes with a belt clip, which even though looks scaled down from previous models, should hold up nicely. Regular price is $49.99 but you can grab one for $44.99 during holiday season. They are also offering 20% off all Pink cases This is a limited time offer so hurry. Check them out at Tridentcases.com

Foamposite 1: Penny branding & absents of large swoosh.

Foamposite Pro: notice outsole and large swoosh.

Know your Kicks: 1's vs Pros

The sneaker community as a whole has talked a lot about foamposite sneakers lately. And though most of us know the difference between a Foamposite 1 vs a Foamposite Pro, some may not. Here is a quick guide on major differences.

1. The PRO feature a large molded plastic swoosh on the lateral side.

2. The sole pattern of the PRO contains large circular patterns. Hard to explain I'll post pics.

3. Last but most importantly the PRO doesn't contain any "Penny" or "1cent" branding.

Just wanted to make it know that the size and fit of these two is the same but the Foam Pro is usually priced about $10 cheaper than the Foam 1.

Metallic red Foamposite 1

Metallic Red Foamposite 1

In Texas we say "riding on candy and chrome" but in 2012 it may be "walking on candy and foam". Set to release on Feb. 14, 2012 the metallic red foamposite 1 is already causing quite a buzz. The wildly popular shoe looks as if its fresh out of the paint shop sporting a glossy candy coated finish. The Valentine release only adds to the allure of this sneaker and I'm sure many have it at the top of their gift wish list. Price is set at $220.

Electrolime foams

Foamposite 1 Electrolime

Set to release March 2012
Retail is set at $220

Sent from Cameron

Nike Foamposite 1

Play Shoes: Nike Foamposite 1

This time around I hit the court in a shoe that's over a decade old yet still ahead of its time. The Nike Air Foamposite 1. The shoe is truly a love/hate sneaker and has divided the sneaker community for quite some time now. Those that love the shoe, as much as I do, know it's a ballers dream. The shoe feature Nikes zoom air in the forefoot and heel as well as a very springy and strong carbon fiber midfoot plate. Much thicker than that found in the AJ Xi. However, that isn't the good part the best thing about the shoe is its foamposite upper which actually heats up and molds to the wearers foot while he plays. Giving you a true custom fit. Priced at $200 ($225 in the near future) these sneakers, in my opinion are worth every cent.

Air Jordan III

Jordan 3: A timeless classic.

With the recent release of the Air Jordan 3 I wanted to put something together to kind of pay homage to a classic. In the process of doing so I stumbled across this video which, in my opinion, sums it all up far better than I could have. Please watch, learn, and enjoy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBjNuRMSkQg&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Sent from Cameron

Monday, December 5, 2011

Play shoes: Nike Lebron 8 v2

The last time I played ball I broke out the Nike Air Max Lebron 8 v2 and I must say it is now my favorite shoe for basketball. The full length 360 air sole, pylon midsole, and extra padded insole provide all the impact protection a player could ever want. While the fly wire upper gives you a light weight breathable support. Words can't really explain the way this shoe feels on foot it's incredible to say the least. Since they have been out for a while the price has dropped a bit and they can be found on eBay in pretty much every color way and all sizes. Speaking of sizes the shoe runs about a 1/2 size small. Once again I highly recommend this shoe try them on at your local footlocker but shop eBay for big savings.

Networking and connects

With all the hustle and bustle of not only the holiday season but life in general it can be easy to forget about those that look out for us. The most valuable resource if you are a sneakerhead is your connect. The guy, girl, or spot that looks out for you when these major and limited releases roll around. Think about it without them you could find yourself driving for hours, making pointless phone calls, waiting on line, or even paying ridiculous reseller markups. So take time to stop by after the dust settles and just say thanks. Or give a small gift everyone has to eat so I usually give restaurant gift cards. The way I see it $20-$30 bucks is a small price to pay for the service they provide.

Sent from Cameron

Jordan xiv black/red. Aka "last shot"

These are set to release 12/17/11 and retail is around $170. December is a hot month get your money right.

LifeProof Cases

Like their page on Facebook for day to day updates.

LifeProof: Best protection for IPhone 4 & 4s

It's been a long time coming but someone finally did it a company finally figured out how to make a slim rugged case that provides 100% protection for the iPhone 4. Now when I say 100% protection I know many may think of the otterbox defender or the griffin survivor and think that is the highest level of protection available. Think again, the LifeProof case does all that the defender does plus it's waterproof. No I dont mean water resistant or water repellant this thing is full on "under water video" waterproof. It's slim, beautiful, protective and WATERPROOF. Priced at $80 it's a bit pricey but the trade off is priceless check them out at www.lifeproof.com for full details and specs. I must note that as a new company they are still working the kinks out and at time shipping and customer service may be slow. The cases are also available at Bestbuy stores if you choose not to order online. I highly recommend this case and haven't removed mine since the day I got it.

Air Jordan XI concord

Release date:12/23/11
MSRP: $180

Early birds get more than they bargain for.

For the past couple of years the team over at Jordan Brand has treated us to an Air Jordan XI release a day or so before Christmas. This year will serve as no exception and may yield the most anticipated pair of Jordan's to date. The Concord air Jordan XI, whether it's the icy sole, the patent leather, or the fact that AI ( Allen Iverson) rocked them in college this shoe is a sneakerheads dream. With that being said when word spread about the shoes being available ahead of release many jumped at the chance to grab a pair. Spending upwards of $400 to grab this iconic sneaker some were left with a sour taste in their mouths once they actually had the sneaker in hand. There seems that there were many variations of the shoe being sold. Meaning although everyone was purchasing the same shoe in the same color way the appearance of each individuals pair may have been very different from one another. This lead some in the sneaker world to call foul. Many went as far as to say these "early releases" were indeed knockoffs or replica Jordan's. While others stated the shoes were just factory seconds or b-grades, which are shoes made and manufactured by Nike but didn't pass quality inspection thus making them less than perfect or b- grade. Whatever the case I personally don't think the gamble is worth it especially to the tune of $400, I mean I know these shoes will sell fast on launch date but I'll take my chances.