We’re a few months into 2015, which means we’re already dozens of hyped sneaker releases deep. The trend this year has been brands focusing on premium product and storytelling over everything else. This is what people have been asking for the over the years, but who expected $200 price tags on nearly every coveted sneaker? And with multiple releases worth checking out almost weekly, it’s not exactly practical to spend more of your paycheck on fly sneakers than your tiny studio apartment that you share with two roommates—but some people are still doing it.
Are sneakers getting too expensive? We asked a few reputable people in the sneaker game about their thoughts on the higher price points across the board and how it’s affecting consumer habits. We also had a chance to sit down with a Northeastern MBA graduate to get his insight on the recent changes in footwear retail and an unbiased forecast of the business.
Related: Most Expensive Sneakers of 2017