22 Oct Tracing the Lineage of Footwear History | An Overview of the SOTA Footwear Archive

Over the course of the next few hundred words, we are going to dive into SOTA’s rich, deep archive that contains some of the most sought-after, but also culturally relevant, footwear models. Primarily consisting of Nike, the archive counts the Air Moc, the Sock Dart and Zvedochka as just some of the models, as well as pairs from the HTM and Considered series that have gained a cult-like following in the years following their release. 

Ever since sneaker collecting became a ‘thing’ with the release of Air Jordan’s in 1985, there has been an insatiable appetite for what is considered hyped styles, mainly for their immediate or future resell value. Riots at campouts, people queuing for days on end and even speculative cases of people being murdered for their shoes. It’s safe to say, the world of sneaker collecting is like no other.

In recent years, though, the world has witnessed a resurgence of interest in vintage and rare sneakers. As general releases from all manner of brands are as frequent as ever, and collaborations becoming increasingly watered down due to an increased frequency, true enthusiasts are clamouring to get their hands on limited-edition releases and vintage models, especially those from iconic brands like Nike – arguably the godfather of modern sneaker culture. Today, collectors are not just after the latest releases; they are also scouring the archives for hidden gems that have been long forgotten.

The appeal of rare archival footwear lies not just in their unique designs but also in the stories and history they carry. In this article, we embark on a journey to explore some of the rarest models from Nike’s archives that have captured the hearts of collectors and sneaker aficionados worldwide.

Nike, as one of, if not the most influential and innovative sportswear brands in history, has produced a wide range of iconic sneakers that have made a significant impact on sneaker culture. Let’s take a look at some of them in greater detail and explain why they have become so sought after. 

The Considered line stands out due to its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly design. While not as old as some other models, the Considered series showcases Nike’s dedication to creating environmentally responsible sneakers. The rarity of these shoes lies not only in their unique eco-conscious approach but also in the quantities in which they were produced. SOTA has archived the Rock Shoe – in Nutmeg and Anthracite – alongside the Boot and Mid Sneaker.

Another groundbreaking line from Nike comes from the HTM series, an acronym for the initials of the three masterminds behind it, Hiroshi Fujiwara, Tinker Hatfield, and Mark Parker. It represented the pinnacle of design in the sneaker world. This exclusive collection showcases the creative genius of these designers and is known for its limited production and special releases. 

Aside from the Nike Considered and HTM series’, SOTA counts collaborations with rappers like Eminem as well as early streetwear pioneers UNDERCOVER, Fragment, and Stussy, to name but a few. In addition, Nike is recognised for its crossover collaborations with artists like Stash and Michael Lau who help bridge the gap between art and sneaker culture. Located within the archive are pairs that have likely never seen the light of day, as well as promo samples that are held in high regard.

The world of rare archival footwear is a treasure trove of innovation, design and history. The aforementioned models, though considered rare, offer more than just exclusivity – they represent a slice of sneaker culture’s evolution and offer a glimpse into how Nike’s designs have transcended time, a testament to the brand’s enduring influence in the world of fashion and culture. Even after all these years, these models, among others, continue to be yearned for by sneaker collectors and become a point of reference for a specific point in time. 

You can expect us to go into further detail on specific models, brands and footwear lines – like Nike ACG or Considered – in the near future. There is plenty more to explore when it comes to the SOTA Store archive and its bountiful resources.