Image via Complex Original
Even though it seems like raffles and Twitter RSVPs have taken over the game, the tried-and-true method of first-come, first-served still exists. It's a refreshingly old school system—no image verification, no hidden hashtags, no bots to beat—but it takes a lot more than just patience (though that helps, too). If you're a sneakerhead who's down to sit and wait for even just a chance at copping a pair of kicks, we've got you covered with How to Campout for a Sneaker Release.
Call the store to find out the release procedure.
Before you do anything on this list, first thing's first: Contact the store. Ask them about specific release details. This will help you determine if you even need to camp out in the first place.
While many of the larger chain stores hold sneaker releases through in-store raffles these days, a majority of independent boutiques and mom-and-pop stores still do launches via the good ol’ first-come, first-served approach. Call the store and ask how everything is going down. Will it be a simple first-come, first-served drop, or will wristbands be handed out as well? Is there a specific time that people can begin to campout?
Getting the facts straight beforehand can save you time come the actual day of the release. You wouldn’t want to show up the morning of the release only to find out that wristbands were already passed out the day before, or even worse: The launch has been canceled.
Make friends.
It's easy to run into the same familiar 'heads at functions like Sneaker Con, and campouts are no exception. Though a campout may not seem like your typical networking event, it doesn't hurt to make a friend or two while you're out in line. Who knows—making small talk one day may just turn into a valuable connect the next release. And besides, talking with someone who obviously shares the same interest in sneakers as you will also help the time pass.
Plan your schedule ahead of time.
As much as your mind will be focused on the sneaker release, make sure all your ducks are in a row before spending hours camping out. These days, launch dates are known weeks (sometimes even months) in advance, so plan accordingly. If you have a job, make sure to schedule a vacation ahead of time. If you’re a parent, make sure wifey is holding the fort down while you’re gone. Don’t be one of those dudes that brings your kid with you—it’s not only a bad look, but do you really need to be putting your kid through that just for a pair of kicks? And for those high school kids looking to ditch 3rd period, you might want to think again. Truancy is no joke, youngin'.
Dress comfortably.
This should be an obvious one. You'll be outside (probably in the cold) for hours and maybe even overnight, so dress comfortably. Forget about even stunting at a campout. Swap out the raw denim for sweats and trade in the Yeezys for a pair of comfortable beaters.
Don't forget to check the weather. You don’t want to be caught in the rain in your Pyrex shorts and $800 Givenchy T-shirt, because that bucket hat won’t be enough to keep you dry. You're not here to break necks—that comes at a later time. You're here to wait. And then wait some more.
Bring food and supplies.
Make no mistake—a sneaker campout is just exactly that: Camping out. And that means you'll need the necessary supplies. First, there's food and water. Pack a few snacks, or just swing by a drive-thru on your way there. Next, you'll want to bring a lawn chair and a blanket, especially if you're doing an overnight campout. If you bring absolutely nothing, be prepared to sit on a cold, hard surface with no chair, blanket, or food. Look on the bright side: At least you got them Js, though.
Bring your own entertainment.
It doesn't matter how hyped the release is—waiting in line will get boring. There’s no sense of anticipation as you wait for Nike to tweet, no adrenaline rush as you count down the seconds and refresh the page before an 8 a.m. release. Instead, you’ll get to the store, take your place in line, and stay there for the next couple of hours. Help keep your sanity and bring a magazine, cards, or an iPad, and make sure that your phone is fully charged. And you can even spend the campout as an opportunity to marathon that show on Netflix you’ve been meaning to check out.
Make yourself familiar with the neighborhood.
If you really want a pair of sneakers, you might have to travel to another city (or even another state if the thirst is that real) to even have a chance. Get on that Google Maps street view and get familiar with the neighborhood. What’s the parking situation like? Will you need to bring coins for meters? Is there quick access to a restroom? Is the neighborhood safe to wait outside in the streets overnight? Performing the research and knowing all of this before lining up will save you the headache.
Have backup forms of payment ready.
You've waited in line for hours. The last thing you'd want is for your credit card to be rejected. Bring a second (or third) credit card, just in case. If you want to play it extra safe, it doesn't hurt to bring cash. In a sneaker culture driven by stunting hard, having your card declined in front of sneakerheads is just as bad as having it happen on a first date.
Don't be an asshole.
Please refrain from being “that guy.” You know, the loud-mouth-line-cutting tough guy. Everyone’s camping out for the same reason and going through hours of waiting just like everyone else. The last thing they need is some jerk to make things even worse. Don’t let your impatience get to you—keep your cool, wait your turn, and just shut the fuck up sometimes. Do you really want your antics to force the store, or even law enforcement, to call off the release?
Have a Plan B.
By camping out, you’re essentially putting all your eggs into one basket, banking on the chance that you’re going to be one of the lucky few who can cop. If you want to play it safe just in case you strike out, keep a list of other stores in your area that’ll be dropping the sneakers, as well as a list of non-local spots that might be accepting phone orders later in the day. Who knows, just when you thought you struck out, lowkey spots might still have pairs in stock.
If you’re really not confident about your chances, you can also try your luck on international sites the night before and, obviously, the usual 8 a.m. EST drop from stores like Nike and Foot Locker. Best case scenario: You end up with two pairs—one from online and another from camping out.
