The Biggest Surprises in Sneaker History

From out of nowhere.

sneaker history

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sneaker history

"Surprise" isn't normally a word that you'd associate with sneakers. Releases are planned months—if not years—in advance, and even the hyper-est hyperstrike usually leaks out one way or another. Professional athletes find favorite styles and stick to them, companies design models that they think will sell. In most cases, a surprise in sneakers is a bad thing. But not always. And if it wasn't for the occasional risk-taker, this whole sneaker thing would be a lot less interesting. Check out The Biggest Surprises in Sneaker History and let us know your thoughts below.

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Stephon Marbury unveils a $15 signature shoe.

Reebok Makes a $65,000 Question and puts it on sale.

Converse files for bankruptcy.

Michael Jordan wears Penny's shoes.

And1 launches a sneaker line.

Mike Bibby beats Penny.

Reebok Give 50 Cent and Jay Z signature shoes.

Rick Ross gets dropped from Reebok.

Rasheed Wallace dresses for the (Portland) weather.

McFlys actually exist.

A Nike loses its Swoosh.

Gilbert Arenas tries high fashion.

Jason Kidd signs with Peak.

Nike resurrects the Air Penny line.

Kanye wears a new Nike.

Garment leather is a hit.

The first Jordan retros bomb.

Kanye West unveils his Louis Vuitton collaboration.

The Roshe Run becomes a cult hit.

Mike gets his way early.

Kanye debuts the Yeezy 2 in Kobe's Black Mamba movie.

Andre Agassi signs with adidas.

Shaq re-signs with Reebok.

Dwyane Wade leaves Jordan Brand.

Tinker Hatfield goes patent.