Sneakers have evolved from existing in a strictly athletic space to walking runways and red carpets all over the globe. And while sneakerheads may not immediately think of Los Angeles as having a rich sneaker culture, the City of Angels is quickly rivaling sneaker hubs like New York and D.C. Here’s our list of the stores that L.A. sneaker aficionados should visit.
Not just a sneaker store, Blends has grown as a brand over the past ten years to become a sporty footwear authority. They’ve even collaborated with big names like Vans as recently as this month, with the release of their ‘Peacoat’ Blends x Vans Vault Sk8-Hi Reissue Zip LX. Unlike some stores that specialize in one particular sneaker brand, you can pick up hard-to-find and limited release kicks from Nike SBs to Chucks to Jeremy Scott’s Couture Adidas. They also carry both casual and athletic sneakers.
Brooklyn Projects
Shop, Store, Skate Park
Not just a sneaker store, Brooklyn Projects, the brainchild of Dominick DeLuca, is both a boutique clothing store and an art gallery. One of the big draws for the skateboarders that frequent this shop is the mini ramp in the backyard that’s been ridden by legends like Tony Alva and Christian Hosoi. BP has also done exclusive collaborations with Nike SB with the 2013 release of the Dunk Low ‘Walk of Fame.’
DripLA
DripLA, located on Hollywood Boulevard, is right in the heart of Hollywood tourist territory. They specialize in casual Adidas. But they also carry apparel and Nike sneakers, more specifically, Jordans. Their clean, open layout also makes for a particularly pleasant shopping experience.
Flight Club Los Angeles
Flight Club has both new and consignment products up for grabs. One of the best things about them is that they’ve got a reputation for carrying authentic retro sneakers, which is something that not many establishments can boast.
Kick Sole Provider
Shop, Store
Kick Sole Provider carries some of the most on-demand sneakers in their clean and organized Larchmont shop. They also have shoes available for the entire family with their large collection of men’s, women’s and kid’s styles.
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Melrose Athletic Supply
Melrose Athletic Supply carries a lot of the newest releases before they drop, as well as a large collection of retros and collectables. Plus, they’re known for their exceptional service whether you’re a VIP customer or not.
This Little Tokyo shop has a huge selection of the latest releases from everyone from Nike to Onitsuka to New Balance. Footland is also known for having friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Millennium Shoes
Millennium Shoes not only has the best new releases, but they boast a variety of casual sneakers from all the big brands. One great thing about them is that they team up with local brands to host community events.
Round Two
Round Two started in Richmond, VA, by three guys with a passion for sneakers. In just three years, they’ve expanded to two stores, the second in L.A., and continue in their mission to provide affordable, awesome kicks. They’re known for their friendly service and daily arrivals of new merchandise.
Sportie LA
Sportie LA has been around for over 30 years and would be referred to by most sneakerheads as a ‘classic’ shop. They’re easily identifiable by the graffiti art on their exterior. And while they carry brand new items, they’ve also got an extensive retro inventory.
This shop carries consignment only. But with original Jordans in mint condition in high demand, Holy Grail definitely lives up to its name.
Supreme Los Angeles
Walking into Supreme Los Angeles, you find an expansive luxury that you’d be used to seeing on Rodeo Drive. Except instead of couture clothes, there’s a massive selection of athletic, casual, and urban streetwear and sneakers. Oh, and they’ve got an indoor skate bowl. So there’s that.
UNDFTD
UNDFTD has grown to a global brand with stores that stretch across the Pacific from California to Japan. They have numerous collaborations under their belt, including Puma, Converse, and the exclusive ‘UNDFTD’ Jordan IVs. To top things off, their reputation for extremely knowledgeable staff precedes them.
Lo Brewer is a fashion writer, novelist, extreme thrifter, crafting maven and vintage enthusiast. She writes books, designs and sews rockabilly dresses, manages an entertainment news website, and is currently on the hunt for the perfect purple lipstick.
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