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Sneakers have turned into a cultural phenomenon as of the 1990s. The colors, silhouettes and designs tell a story of a different point in time again and again. We hype them up, critique them, buy them, stock them and most importantly, we attach ourselves to them because they hold a special place in our childhood, they serve as a token of respect and they also just look great on us. Our affinity toward sneakers stems from the fact that they tell a story about who we are without saying a word.
Customizer Ting Meister decided to take one of the game’s most classic looks to tell a story about the intersectionality between sneakers and cultures. A member of the Hmong American community, a marginalized indigenous group that has settled in the U.S. for years, tapped the customizer to dedicate a sneaker for the upcoming Hmong American Festival in Minneapolis that’ll take place in May 2018.
By using the Air Jordan 1 as a base, Ting Meister combines American identity and Hmong traditions to create a one of a kind custom. The customs features red silk, black velvet, ornaments and fabrics from the traditional Hmong clothing across the upper. The pair also has the American flag toe box and tongue tag, with red lamb skin liner on the soles. The pattern on the Swoosh makes this pair pop out with its vibrant colors which capitulate Hmong culture. What truly makes this shoe stand out is the attention to details and Hmong culture with the 144 hand braided beads on the end of each shoe.
Take a look at these one of a kind customs below. Be sure to follow the artist here, and let us know what you think in the comments below. Would you rock these? Would you like to see your culture on a Jordan?
Custom Air Jordan 1 “History of Hmong” Custom Air Jordan 1 “History of Hmong” Custom Air Jordan 1 “History of Hmong” Custom Air Jordan 1 “History of Hmong” Custom Air Jordan 1 “History of Hmong”
