From the outside looking in, sneaker culture can seem like a very 'wink wink, nudge nudge' situation. Plus, navigating London’s retail landscape can be a complete maze in itself. Below, I’ve rounded up a few of my favourite sneaker shops in Carnaby and Soho that you need to know about, ranging from California classics like Vans to rare sneakers from Japan.
Words by Chris Danforth Footwear Editor at Highsnobiety @c_danforth
adidas Originals For all three-striped goods, the adidas Originals flagship is surely noteworthy. Don’t underestimate the cosiness of an adidas tracksuit. The brand’s Carnaby doors stock classic sportswear basics as well as limited-edition sneaker collaborations with Pharrell Williams and Kanye West. Palace Be warned, Palace is not consistently stocked with sneakers because they have a tendency to sell out. On weekdays you’ll be able to grab accessories and
PUMA PUMA’s classic German low-tops (I will always recommend the evergreen Clyde and Basket sneakers) as well as pop culture collaborations including the new PUMA x Karl Lagerfeld range can all be found here. Footpatrol Footpatrol is a must-know sneaker boutique in London. Bottom line. The compact space contains an 'if you know, you know' selection of kicks, so don’t be surprised if you see someone eyeing your Footpatrol shopping bag.
END. END. takes a more curated approach to their sneaker offerings, purveying Japanese designers and limited collaborations (i.e. YEEZY and OFF-WHITE) that don’t stay in stock for long. Watch out for line-ups on Fridays and Saturdays and make sure to sign up for END. raffles via their 'Launches' platform. You can also trust the staff to know what they’re talking about.
Vans
size? Stop through at size? for the international retailer’s immense selection of brands, offering up exclusive styles from adidas, Reebok, New Balance and more. No need to wrap your head around complicated fashion trainers here, just timeless sportswear.
The colourways and variation of Vans sneakers are what make this outpost worth a visit. Ask for the Anaheim range (colour combinations made like they were in the original Vans Anaheim factory), and beautifully patterned
apparel, but when co-branded kicks
alongside Reebok or adidas hit the shelves, you’ll have to join the queue.
models from the Van Doren series.
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