Social networks may continue to evolve, but, as of now, Twitter is still the go-to medium for sneaker lovers. This is because the sneaker world moves at a breakneck pace, and shoes become unavailable just as quickly as they're available. Using this social platform is essential for anyone who wants to purchase sought-after footwear, but Twitter has also built a community and elevated standout personalities at the same time.
The ability to leverage clickable links and source the exact information that you need to suit your personal taste and interest makes Twitter versatile and useful for sneakers—not to mention the center of endless entertainment provided by sneakerheads going back and forth in Twitter fights.
But, it's not just about that: There's important discussion that goes on, too. Those in the know are quick to share vital information, and it's where the sneaker world commences on a daily basis. Whether you’re a reseller or an enthusiast or an industry insider, you will get what you signed up for by following these 15 Sneaker People on Sneaker Twitter.
Matthew Kish
Twitter:@matthewkish
Known For: Portland business information
With the two largest sneaker brands based out of Portland, Ore., there is plenty of business news and info to keep Matthew Kish busy and keep him relevant on Sneaker Twitter. He’s plugged well with both Nike and adidas, with an inside track on current events surrounding these both brands. If there’s any big business news in the footwear industry, or any other Oregon-based company, count on Kish to be among the first to provide an in-depth look from the business or financial perspective. He’s also good at sharing links with other relevant stories from non-sneaker blogs.
Dino Hatfield
Twitter: @BALTsneakerShow
Known For: Reliable release information
Host of one of the premier sneaker shows on the East Coast, Dino Hatfield constantly gives reliable, accurate information on major Nike/Jordan releases and release processes well before anyone else, including most of the “known insiders.” Many have questioned and criticized Hatfield in the past, and he entertains the timeline by roasting the “know-it-all” challengers when they are proved wrong. Following Hatfield negates the need for apps and/or blogs to source release info and to find out what’s coming next.
Gary Warnett
Twitter: @gwarizm
Known For: Sneaker writer, vast wealth of pre-digital knowledge
One of the best O.G. perspectives comes from across the pond from Gary Warnett. Very few people have a more vast knowledge of sneakers spanning all brands with the longevity of Warnett, who's written several books, interviewed brand CEOs, and was previously an editor at Crooked Tongues. He is a wealth of knowledge, with unfiltered opinions and observations. Most importantly, Warnett doesn’t come across as that bitter old sneakerhead that we see all too often. Maybe the best part of giving Warnett a follow is gleaning some of his knowledge about music and culture and how much music influences sneakers.
Heidi Burgett
Twitter: @heidiburgett
Known for: Nike PR Director
There is no better source for what’s going at Nike than Heidi Burgett. She responds to questions from followers and provides information that they request, as well as making formal announcements for the brand about almost every major product release strategy. The first place to see collections officially from the brand is always Burgett's Twitter account. Other brands may say they do it, but Burgett is truly taking a grassroots approach to Nike’s consumer-brand relationship.
Ian Hofler
Twitter: @kicksdeals
Known for: Links on release days, deals, and sales
Almost every sneakerhead has gotten a deal at one point or another from Kicks Deals. Ian Hofler works tirelessly to scan sites for the cheapest prices for every desirable model on the market. He shares key content from other segments of the genre, too, while also tweeting out original content of his own, making his one of the most versatile and follow-worthy sneaker accounts on the platform.
Matt Berg
Twitter:@J23app
Known for: Jordan Brand information and links
Nobody on the timeline knows more about what’s going on with Jordan Brand and Retro releases than Matt Berg, also known as @J23app. He’s got every release date with corresponding pictures far ahead of time, and he’s always accurate and reliable. On release days, J23app has links for every major retailer and will give an idea of what to expect from a site when traffic gets heavy. Despite having grown into one of the biggest info-based Twitter accounts for Jordans, at heart, Berg is still very much a sneaker enthusiast who loves his Js, and this comes across clearly on his Twitter feed.
Nick DePaula
Twitter:@_ndp
Known for: NBA shoe deals and Nice Kicks Creative Director
Nick DePaula is very well-connected in the sneaker industry and provides inside info from people that most don’t have access to. As Creative Director of Nice Kicks, he has an outlet to provide sneaker content from a completely different and unique angle. Additionally, DePaula is in-the-know with the latest on NBA shoe deals and contracts. Most refreshing, though, is that he is not afraid to give an honest take or opinion on a topic. He’ll also break news on Twitter, instead of posting it on his site, essentially making him the footwear world’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Matt Halfhill
Twitter:@MattHalfhill
Known for: Founder of Nice Kicks
Very few people in the industry have as much knowledge as Matt Halfhill. He is one of the smartest, most shrewd guys out there and when he shares some of these nuggets with Twitter, it’s worth paying attention. Halfhill’s timeline is at its best when he gets passionate about something and digs in his heels relentlessly with those who disagree. He often shares insight on the path he took to climb to his position, as well as offering advice to others who are interested in making a living in the sneaker industry.
Brandon Edler
Twitter:@MrBrando3
Known for: Content Manager and Creative Strategist for Finish Line
The face of the digital side of Finish Line, Brandon Edler is typically the first to tell the world when the retailer will or will not be participating in a major release. He’s the guy to follow if you’re ever looking for a job or internship with the Indiana-based retailer, too. Outside of his 9-5, Edler has solid views on the sneaker industry and is one of the most reliable Yeezy fans around. He’s also a trusted sneaker writer, which helps him share and articulate his stance on anything about shoes.
Matt Powell
Twitter:@NPDMattPowell
Known for: Sports industry analyst
Matt Powell is a numbers guy, plain and simple. He is connected to top executives at all of the major brands and retailers that are publicly traded. He summarizes dense quarterly and annual press releases and investor calls to the masses on his timeline, highlighting only the most relevant information. Powell will argue with those who question or challenge him, and will probably go to his grave denying Kanye’s influence. But if you’re someone who is fascinated by the business of sneakers, it's a must to follow Powell.
Russ Bengtson
Twitter: @russbengtson
Known for: Sneaker writer, O.G.
Russ Bengtson doesn’t always talk about sneakers, but when he does, people should listen. There aren’t many people (if any) who have been around the game longer than him and are as quick witted. Heck, he essentially started the idea of sneaker writing during his time as Editor-in-Chief at SLAM. He’s both smart and funny, while being the only “influencer” that will actually give you an honest opinion about a product or brand. Bengtson also isn’t afraid to share his views on sports and politics, posting everything through his sarcastic, yet always informed lens.
Jay Estacio
Twitter:@SOLELINKS
Known for: Links for everything
There isn’t a shoe that matters that @SOLELINKS doesn’t get you a link for, and Jay Estacio, the man behind the site, even drops links on the timeline when sneakers linger in random sizes. The account is reliable, timely, and very consistent -- constantly scanning the Internet for shoes that pop up and sharing direct links with some 60K+ followers. In the rare instance when Estacio misses something, you can usually find an RT from the person who has it. If you are building a collection or an active consumer of sneakers online, you have to follow Sole Links.
Ronnie Fieg
Twitter: @RonnieFieg
Known for: Owner of Kith
Sometimes when you want to know something or see something, you’ve got to go right to the source. Following Ronnie Fieg will get you first looks for all of his collabs, as well as the latest goings on at Kith. Fieg has great knowledge about footwear, and from time to time he will share behind-the-scenes looks at his designs and Kith initiatives. You don’t need to be a fan of his product to find value in following him, his passion and drive is truly inspiring for anyone hustling to be build something and be successful.
Andy Oliver
Twitter:@AndyOliverWpg
Known for: Shopify, Kith insider
Put aside the fact that Andy Oliver thwarted many of your bots and crusades to make online sneaker shopping fair and balanced for a second. Due to his job at Shopify, which helps secure the shopping experience, Oliver knows exactly what happenes during a sneaker release. On top of that, Oliver is an original member of Kithset, with the craziest collection in Western Canada. He’s the best source to understand the process of all the online Kith releases and has been instrumental in revolutionizing the sneaker e-commerce world. Oliver has a good taste in shoes, and isn't afraid to express it.
Marcus Jordan
Twitter: @HEIRMJ
Known for: Trophy Room sneaker store, being Michael Jordan's son
Not only do you get a glimpse of what it’s like to be in the inner circle of the GOAT himself, but Marcus Jordan drops plenty of gems on his Twitter account that stand up on their own. With the Trophy Room store expected to open up in Spring 2016, Jordan reliably floats some exciting news and sneak peeks for the Internet to devour. A proud member of #TeamJordan, his collection and rotation can’t be slept on either, and if you follow along, you’re bound to catch a glimpse of some super exclusive pairs. And you might even get some insider information on Jordan Brand, too. He recently even shed light on the Crying Michael Jordan meme and said it's here to stay for 2016.
