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.
This week's column stops in at St. Alfred, the go-to sneaker spot for Chicago heads. Below, "Brand Evangelist" Joseph Schaefer takes us through 10 of the store's hottest kicks, and gives some insight on each pair from the shelf. Read on to see all of St. Joseph's picks, and if you're in Chicago, make sure to stop in at St. Alfred, located at 1531 North Milwaukee Ave. St. Alfred is online at stalfred.com.
Jordan VI Infrared Pack, $310
"People have waited quite some time for the true Infrared VIs to release. They finally dropped last weekend, and we're probably out of your size, but give us a call. The shoe was made famous in 1991 when Jordan took the Bulls to win his first championship ring. We are proud to be in Chicago."
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Converse One Star Asymmetric OX Number (N)ine, $140
"Converse and Number (N)ine's Swan Song. A beautiful thing."
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Nike Lunar Chukka Woven + (France), $130
"I am personally a big fan of the Nike Lunar sole, so when these came through I was floored. The sole is amazing, and the padded tongue and heel tab really make it feel proper. The Lunar Chukka woven is insanely comfortable all around, and SO ME made a great collaborative shoe for the World Cup. The proof is in the pudding."
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ALIFE Public Naval Plaid, $80
"The response to these shoes has been great. It is a simple, applicable summer shoe. It comes with a cork sole so there is no reason to be wearing socks on a hot summer day. I personally like the red heel, which makes the shoe more interesting, and the plaid upper with leather laces brings it all together."
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Nike Lunar Rejuven8 Mid (USA), $125
"Another World Cup Nike shoe that really kills it is USA's Lunar Rejuven8 Mid done by Mr. Cartoon. These shoes are insanely light and the mesh body makes them extremely breathable. If you haven't tried a pair, I highly recommend it."
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Visvim FBT Shaman , $550
"Visvim's FBT is the brand's classic silhouette for a reason. It takes native design and brings it to the modern day with meticulous attention placed upon quality. This FBT comes in seasonal sand-colored suede and features a hand-sewn upper, which is extremely breathable. As Visvim puts it, 'Socks are optional, but frowned upon."
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Clarks Desert Boot , $90
"It seems like a lot of companies have just recently caught on to the Desert Boot, but Clarks has been doing it for quite some time. These sand suede desert boots are extremely versatile and the crepe sole seemingly lasts forever. I recommend waterproofing the suede if you want to keep them fresh."
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Converse CT Spec OX Chambray, $70
"First String Standards by Converse. So standard."
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Reebok Court Victory Pump "Michael Chang", $125
"Back from the early '90's, the shoe Michael Chang made famous is here. The upper consists of mostly leather with green plastic accents among other detailing. A classic colorway for a classic shoe."
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Vans California Authentic CA, $50
"Vans may be the shoe of the summer for a lot of people, and these Authentic CAs really do it up. The herringbone upper comes in a refreshing Lake Blue color, and works well. A simple silhouette, good material, and a nice range of colors makes the Authentic CA wearable for just about anyone."
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St. Alfred
1531 North Milwaukee Ave.
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 486-7159
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