In a surprising turn of events, former President Donald J. Trump made headlines once again, this time not for his political endeavors but for his foray into the sneaker industry. Priced at $399, the limited-edition “Never Surrender High Top” sneakers made their debut at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia, just hours after Trump was ordered to pay $450 million in a New York civil fraud case. Despite not being officially associated with Trump, these sneakers, featuring a gold-painted leather design with an American flag motif, sold out almost immediately.
Divisive Reception and Controversy
Trump’s appearance at Sneaker Con stirred mixed reactions from the public. While some praised the event as a successful venture, others criticized Sneaker Con for providing a platform to a political figure. The release of the sneakers also sparked debate online, with some mocking the concept of a former president endorsing footwear. A spokesperson for Joe Biden’s campaign even likened the shoes to “bootleg Off-Whites,” taking a dig at Trump’s political aspirations for 2024.
Response from Sneaker Con and Collector’s Craze
Amidst the controversy, Sneaker Con responded vaguely, emphasizing their mission to support sneaker culture globally. Despite the backlash, the “Never Surrender” high-tops became coveted collector’s items, with several pairs appearing on eBay for exorbitant prices. One collector even splurged $9,000 for a hand-signed pair, adding to the exclusivity of the release. However, most buyers are still awaiting the production and shipment of their orders, scheduled for July.
Novelty Item or Market Entry Attempt?
While Trump’s sneakers garnered attention, it’s evident that they serve more as novelty items than serious contenders in the sneaker market. With only 1,000 pairs released, including a few autographed by Trump himself, the limited availability and high price tag suggest a deliberate strategy to generate buzz rather than a genuine attempt to establish a presence in the industry. Despite invitations to “Join Trump’s Sneaker Community” and promises of an “Official Trump Sneaker Launch Party,” it remains uncertain whether these shoes will gain traction among sneaker enthusiasts, regardless of their political leanings.
