Nike SB Dunk High "Tecate"

This Nike SB Dunk quickstrike release is set to make its way to stores sometime this month. For some reason, this shoe's color scheme is inspired by the Mexican beer Tecate, which is the main reason I decided to post this. It just seemed a little bizarre to me, but then again, Nike did release another SB Dunk earlier this year that was inspired by, well, dank. Of course, that particular Dunk released on April 20th.

I'm usually not into shoes that use metallic materials in large doses, but something about that striped metallic gold against the red suede really catches my eye. The white outline on the red patent leather Swoosh is also a nice touch. Unfortunately, there's no word on when Nike will release the Modelo and Negra Modelo inspired Dunks, but The Most Interesting Man In The World has informed me that the Dos Equis colorway will see a quickstrike release next month.

More photos after the jump.

Nike Air Force 1 Hi Light Charcoal/White

Sorry to bombard you with shoes all of a sudden, but I had to find something to post about in order to push down Teenage Butt Rash's throwaway post featuring Roseanne's horrendous rendition of the National Anthem. I guess it's sorta funny, but c'mon 'Stache, you're better than that.

Anyhow, I'm really feeling these charcoal grey nubuck Air Force 1s. These classic kicks always look real nice in a clean, simple colorway. This particular pair are quite possibly my favorite Air Force 1s I've ever seen, but I've always had a soft spot for grey shoes. For real though, it don't get much cleaner than this.

You can purchase these for a cool $100 at Nike Sportswear retailers and the Nice Kicks store in Austin, TX.

Size? X Nike Blazers Releasing Right In Time for Bengals Season

UK retailer Size? will be releasing these fresh Nike Blazers later this month in a Cincinnati Bengals friendly colorway. I already got my Bengals-themed Air Max 90s ready for the season through Nike iD, so I think I'm gonna have to pass on these. There's also a third colorway that's mostly orange, but details on that pair's release are vague. I'm not crazy about Size?'s question mark logo replacing the usual NIKE on the back (picture after the jump), but otherwise I'm really feelin' these.

Props to the fine folks at Nice Kicks.

Slim's Sneaker History

It's been a while since I've written about kicks, as nothing new has really caught my eye enough to inspire a post. So I've decided to take a moment to let you in on how my sneaker obsession began. I'm sure you're just dying to know. I trace the obsession back to my days in the first grade, when my good friend Ryan, of Half Court Heave fame, moved in next door to the Mayfields on good ole Shuman Lane in Finneytown.

Up until this point, I had never owned a pair of Nike Airs and it wasn't until I saw Ryan and his older brother rocking them that I began to covet them more than anything else in the world. My desire to own a pair grew so strong that one time, while eating at a restaurant with my family, I noticed a waitress wearing some and loudly exclaimed, "She's wearing Nike Airs!"

One morning after a sleepover at Ryan's house, I noticed a pair of black and white Nike Air trainers sitting in the basement. They were an old pair of Ryan's brother's shoes and they fit me perfectly. I asked if I could buy them, despite being pretty worn in, and before long a deal was struck for $5-10. It should also be noted that after Alonzo Mourning was traded to Miami, I bought my second Starter jacket from his brother which was a Miami Heat pullover.

I remember walking around in my used kicks and looking at the Nike Air logo on the back of my heel to soak in the glory of wearing a true pair of Nike Airs. Yeah, I was a dweeb. From this point on, an obsession was born. The obsession wouldn't be fully realized until after graduating college, but the seed had been planted nonetheless.

If I still have your attention, take a moment to marvel at some of the freshest sneakers I rocked during my formative years.

The Rarest Jordans To Ever Hit eBay

As I was browsing Air Jordans on eBay tonight, I stumbled across something a little more interesting than the usual old Jordan 11's with icy soles gone yellow and atrocious Jordan Brand fusions. I think I may have discovered the holy grail of Jordans, y'all... original white, metallic black Air Jordan 1's from 1985. According to eBay seller quickclicksales, these are the rarest Jordans to ever hit eBay... and they're in my size. Apparently these things weren't even released to the public, with only a few samples made. So I'm asking for your advice Dank Gamers, should I drop $3,700 (FREE shipping!!!) so that I can own what I can only assume are the dopest and rarest shoes in the city of Cincinnati if not the entire Midwest? I could also try my hand at bartering, as this item features the "Make Offer" option.

In case you're wondering, I'm not actually considering purchasing these. Would be tight to own 'em though.

Nike Air Max Penny 1 Coming Back In Spring 2011

According to Nice Kicks, Penny Hardaway's first signature shoe will be re-releasing in the spring of 2011. This original colorway was re-released back in 2007, but this time around Nike will also be dropping a purple and orange colorway inspired by Hardaway's time spent with the Phoenix Suns.

I've always had an obsession with the Penny 2, but the originals have a special place in my heart as well. When I was in fifth grade, I was really feeling these but my mom made me settle for a cheaper version without the exposed air pocket in the back. Needless to say, my mother greatly neglected my shoe game when I was a child.

I probably won't be willing to make an investment in these next spring, but if Nike decides to drop this white and grey colorway too, then I might have to set some funds aside.

Patta x Nike Air Max 1 Burgundy (UPDATE)

Once again, Amsterdam's Patta has created a slick new interpretation of the Air Max 1. I can't decide if I like it more than their last effort, but I think I might be leaning towards this latest rendition. Hard to say.

This photo of the shoes has been floating around the internet for a while now, but it wasn't until a couple of weeks ago that these were confirmed to be released. When the photo first surfaced, there was confusion as to whether these were another Patta creation, or the work of Dutch artist Parra. As it turns out, Patta and Parra are down with one another and they collaborated on the shoe. From the looks of this Parra jacket, he seems to have had a hand in the selection of the colors, which is most noticeable in the multi-colored sole.

I really like the colors of these and I'm also into the use of different colors on the swoosh and eyelets on the inside and outside of the shoes. As usual, Patta is on point with the materials. They didn't go as far out with the materials as they did on their last Air Max 1, but this version seems to be more about the colors and unique details in the design. Burgundy suede makes up the majority of the shoe, while a burgundy mesh is also included. The swooshes and the light blue Parra patch on the tongue use a carpet material, which is one of my favorite details.

UPDATE: These are set to release on March 13th and more detailed photos are now online at Nice Kicks.

adidas Originals Nizza Hi "Zip"

Adidas is coming correct with this recreation of the classic Nizza. I'm really feeling the solid colors, and the accents are a nice touch on the beige and black pairs. I think the red looks good with the black, but the navy pair could have used some red or burgundy on the tongue and interior. If you don't like dealing with laces, these are for you, as a zipper is used on the heel from the sole to the collar. And for you vegetarians and vegans who avoid leather and suede, I believe these are made entirely of synthetic materials.

For more photos, visit Nice Kicks. By the way, the Nice Kicks store had it's grand opening last night in Austin, TX.

Soooo Fresh

The Cool Grey Air Jordan 11 has been confirmed to be released in 2010 for the first time since 2001. It is set to release around the holiday season some time in November. Widely considered Tinker Hatfield's greatest design both aesthetically and functionally (himself included), this unique colorway will almost definitely make waves in the sneaker world upon its release. While the Jordan 11 Space Jams were all the rage this past holiday season, I tend to prefer the lighter value of this colorway. I've always wanted a pair of 11s and I'm already feeling the urge to bring a pair of these home. I've never experienced the rabid madness of copping a pair of Jordans upon release, so maybe I'll finally subject myself to it. Wish me luck come November.

Patta x Nike Air Max 1 Premium

This Nike collaboration with Amsterdam's Patta released all the way back on Thanksgiving, but I'm not going to let that stop me from spreading the dopeness. I've always been a fan of the Air Max 1, but with this version Patta has taken it's classic style to new heights. Patta has worked with the Air Max 1 before (white/green and white/purple) with excellent results, but the use of colors and materials on this version are what set it apart. The purple material on the toe and ankle is a perforated suede, while the black is corduroy, and the mudguard is a greyish navy denim. The green swoosh and tongue tag tie it all together, while the red accents it just enough to keep the shoe from looking too earthy.

If I had never seen this shoe and you told me about all of the different colors and materials, I would probably tell you that it would look ugly. But somehow Patta made it work and sneakerheads have taken notice, as this shoe wound up on plenty of Best of 2009 lists. With that said, I didn't like about half of the stuff that popped up on said best of lists. I do, however, like these shoes.

In4mation & Vans team up for some fly shit

I'm in L.A. right now, so you can be sure I've seen my fair share of Vans around. In fact, I copped me a pair of navy suede Eras in the LBC. While I'm definitely still feeling my new kicks, this pair of Chukka Lows has got me craving another pair of Vans. Teaming up with the skateboarding company In4mation, Vans has delivered one fresh looking pair of sneakers right here. I'm really feeling the blue canvas with red accents and brown gum sole. The houndstooth interior is a nice touch as well. These will release December 12 at the In4mation retail store and their online store.

Check out Nice Kicks for more photos, as usual.

Converse SBs

Like my fellow Dank Game sneaker colleague Sean, I have lost any ambition of posting the flyest new shit in the sneaker world. In fact, I never really had that ambition in the first place. I just like to post stuff that I think is sweet. One thing that I think is pretty sweet is Converse's recent skateboarding shoes. I'm no skateboarder, so I can't comment on how they perform on the half-pipe, but I can comment on how dope they look. And let me tell you, these shoes look pretty fucking dope. Unfortunately, I can't find any information about when or where these will be released. Any help with this would be appreciated.

This is the Converse SB Revere Mid from the Converse Red Suede Series. I'm really feeling the simple design and red suede with navy trim. Check out Nice Kicks for more photos of the Converse Red Suede Series.

This is the second pair from the Red Suede Series, which are obviously Chuck Taylors. I've always liked when Chucks use the material of the shoe for the toe rather than extending the rubber sole. Check the link above for more photos of these shoes.

This is the Converse CTS Mid Navy Blue Waxed Canvas. Another nice looking Chuck Taylor. I'm definitely feeling the look of the waxed canvas. Check out Nice Kicks for more photos.

Air Jordan 2 Retro White/Metallic Silver-Neutral Grey

Set to release in 2010, this white Jordan 2 with grey and metallic silver accents is the first pair of Jordan 2s to be released in some time. It seems that a lot of people don't have much love for the Jordan 2, but I've always thought it was a nice looking shoe. I really don't understand where the hate comes from. I've always been into grey shoes, and I'm especially feeling the white and grey look on these 2s. The reflective 3M material is also a nice touch. For more photos and info, check Nice Kicks' post.

Nike Air Griffey Max 1 Anthracite/Black/Hot Red/White

Ok, some more old news in the sneaker world. This latest Hot Red colorway of the Nike Air Griffey Max 1 is pretty hot. These shoes have been coming back pretty hard as of late. It wasn't a big surprise as I consider them one of Nike's best efforts from the 90s, which obviously says a lot. I've really been feeling these new colors, to the point that I might even favor them over the original Freshwaters and the Royal Blue joints. I just came across a pair of these "reasonably" priced on eBay and I'm having trouble getting them out of my mind now. Tune in next week to Confessions of a Shoe Addict when I debate buying the Air Penny II Triple Blacks for the sixth time.

Nike Air Force Alpha II Charles Barkley

These retro Charles Barkley kicks were originally released in 1988 and saw a retro release in 2004. They're now available at select House of Hoops locations and have just become available online at Osneaker for $160. There's plenty to like about these shoes: classic Nike style, vintage 76ers colorway, and Barkley's #34 embroidered on the back. With that said, I've never been crazy about shoes with the low strap. Always seemed pretty useless to me. I just really couldn't justify dropping the loot on these. Still pretty sweet shoes, though.

Nike Dunk Hi Autoclave

I meant to post about these the other day, but instead, risking what I can only assume is a really substantial amount of clout in the sneaker game, I'm posting about it now. I've never really been that huge of a Dunk fan, but, as I mentioned in my previous Blazer post, Nike Sportswear is seriously on it. Where Nike SB, or even Nike proper, might release some technicolor bullshit to keep the 15 year old mallrats happy, NSW opts to keep it simple, instead using materials ("premium" canvas) and construction (vulcanized midsole?) to set it apart. The Nike Dunk Hi Autoclave (btw, an autoclave is a device to sterilize equipment and supplies by subjecting them to high pressure steam at 121° C or more-Wiki) is set to release September 29th, once again at select NSW retailers (sorry Ohio).

via NSW

Adidas Does the NBA Right

After a pathetic attempt at creating NBA team Superstars (the Heat colorway was quite possibly the worst of the bunch), Adidas has redeemed themselves with this new collection of Eastern Conference themed Centennial Mids. All five designs are on point, although I think my favorites are the Heat and Knicks, mainly just because of how they're logos look on the tongue. I'm really feeling the overall color of the Cavs and Magic joints, though. I'm not sure when these are supposed to drop, but I've got to get me a pair of the Heat colorway.

Blazer Mid Supreme TZ Sail/Metallic Gold

Nike Sportswear has been on point basically since it's inception, so it should be no surprise that their Blazer Mid Supreme TZ in Sail/Metallic Gold is on it as well. This is the first Blazer Mid to drop in like 5 years that doesn't look like absolute shit (probably hyperbole, but Blazers have seriously fallen off lately), so that in and of itself should be incentive enough. These have been out since August 8 at select Nike Sportswear retailers, a.k.a. nowhere in the Midwest. Ubiq is currently taking phone orders.

Photos courtesy of hypebeast and probably also nikesportswear.com

That's a lot of shouts, someone should send me some free shoes.

Nike Air Penny II Triple Black

I'm pretty in love with the Nike Air Penny II. Although no colorway will ever compare to the highly sought original Atlantic Blue, this Triple Black edition has me fidgeting in my seat. I already own three pairs of the Miami Heat colorway (it's a long story involving multiple eBay mishaps followed by a nasty email that won me a free pair) that dropped this year, and I must say they're some of the most comfortable basketball shoes I've ever worn. The way they slide onto your feet is truly an experience. I'm also in love with the crazy space age design, which I think is probably Nike's most successful attempt ever at creating a futuristic look. I sort of promised myself I wouldn't buy anymore shoes for a while as I've been on quite a tear lately, but I sure wouldn't mind having a pair of these sitting on my shoe rack.