Half of the sneaker game is knowing what kicks are out when, and which shops have them. Our Shelf Space column looks at what shops around the country are stocking in a given week, and gives a quick glimpse into the mind of the buyer/manager/owner who put them there.
As we continue our mission of bringing you the insides of the best sneaker spots from around the U.S., we stop in at Proper, located in Long Beach, California. Tristan Caruso, the owner of Proper, took us through 10 of the hottest sneakers currently sitting on its shelves, so hit the jump to see the shop picks and what he has to say about each.
Nike Air Force 1 Premium Work Boot, $145
"This is a premium-leather, work boot-inspired version of the Air Force 1 with a perforated swoosh, rugged eyelet hardware, and work-boot laces."
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Abington Gore-Tex Hiker, $200
"This staple of the Timberland Abington Collection is revamped with Gore-Tex, making it perfect for the wet winter weather ahead."
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Vans x Taka Hayashi Akat LX, $130
"This sneaker was a standout hit from last year's Taka Hayashi x Vans Holiday Collection, and it is brought back in a new color palette for 2010."
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Nike Air Max 1 Premium Crepe, $110
"This grown-up version of the 1987 classic features premium leather with canvas and pony hair, all matted to a comfortable natural-crepe outsole."
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Vans All Weather Buffalo Boot LX, $85
"An often-forgotten member of the Vans family lineage, this Buffalo Boot is made with Scotchgard-coated suede and nubuck."
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Asics x Mita Gel Lyte III, $110
"Asics teamed up with Ueno-based Japanese retailer Mita for this sneaker. It features a leather upper with tonal, leopard-printed nylon."
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Nike Lunar Wood, $100
"This shoe was originally developed as a collaboration between Wood Wood and Nike, and this is a new colorway of the model. It is true, all-conditions gear, featuring ripstop nylon, a lunarlite outsole, and a P2i Ionmask for wet-weather protection."
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Clae Kahn, $135
"Clae's Khan comes in a grizzly-colored nubuck this season, with square leather laces and a removable ankle strap."
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Vans Spectator LX, $70
"Vans reinterprets the timeless saddle shoe."
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Nike Air Escape, $100
"Nike's ACG classic returns in an all-leather upper with mesh paneling for increased breathing."
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