Individualism - Making men more stylish

So, where do you go to get your kicks from now? Lakeside, Bluewater, Oxford Street, Westfield? Somewhere more local? Where?..WHEEEERRREEE???

Even when you finally figure out where to go, you then have to sub-figure out what shops to hit. It’s long! That’s why loads of men just grab whatever trainers that are ‘on trend’. So…you’ll end up getting white plimsols that you have been tricked into thinking look good because the masses are rocking them. White plimsols are officially ‘Shit’. There. I said it. Why do you think they cost between £5 and £15? Get some real trainers lads, seriously.

We’ve been trainer freaks in our past and have a lot of knowledge on the subject. These are our pick of the best trainer shops in London. Check them out and pick up some REAL trainers.

Located on South Molton Street, round the corner from Bond Street Station, this store is an absolute gem, specialising in unique men’s shoes and smart trainers and is a place where the sneaker heads congregate.

Poste is known for selling limited edition brand collaborations and they pick their stock carefully. The staff are all extremely knowledgeable and the regal burgundy sofa will entice you into trying on every shoe in store…in every size. It’s THAT comfortable.

10A South Molton Street, Mayfair
London, W1K 5QJ

020 7499 8002

http://friendsofposte.blogspot.com/

Situated on Neal Street in the heart of central London’s shoe community, Offspring is the place that broke my trainer virginity.

My student loan ended up here. They regularly update their stock and their styles cover a wide range from Swear to Vans and from Prada to Gola. Offspring is you’re one stop trainer shop.

A lot of the staff are collectors themselves and will know everything you need to know. Go test their knowledge if you don’t believe me, just don’t expect to leave in a hurry.

60 Neal Street, Covent Garden,
London, WC2H 9PJ

020 7497 2463

http://www.offspring.co.uk/perl/go.pl/home.html

The most obvious and commercial choice out of the five here but that still doesn’t take anything away from how great the store is. Size? hold a wide selection of shoes and their constantly updated stock package draws visitor from around the world.

Size? are also part of the JD group, so if you have a friend who gets discount at JD, then call them after all these years. Just say that you sat on your phone to ease into the conversation.

On arrival, you’d be mistaken for wondering into Willy Wonka’s lair, as you’ll be spoilt for choice with what’s on offer; so many unique trainers all with about three varying colour ways. Size spoils me. I love them.

Pop downstairs for a slick selection of street wear that works perfectly with the trainers upstairs and make sure you grab a copy of their newsletter to quench your sneakerholic tendencies; there you’ll learn about their unique trainer heritage as well as up-and-coming designs.  

Carnaby Street, Soho, London W1F 7DW

01706 626 500

http://www.size-online.co.uk/catalogue.asp?cid=1

Although it may not be a store exclusively for trainers, Microzine is definitely worth a mention in our top five list. Finding the store is merely part of the fun! Tucked away behind Topshop (Oxford Circus), Microzine usually attracts only those in the know. But with the range of exclusive trainers, we had to break the mold and expose it for all its worth.

A cross between The Gadget Shop (RIP) and Size?, Microzine is one of central London’s most underrated stores. You may go there looking for trainers but with such a range of lifestyle products we wouldn’t be surprised if you leave a street art or interior design lover.

3 Little Portland Street
Fitzrovia, London W1W 7JB

Tel: 020 7636 8969

http://microzine.co.uk/Mens-Footwear/Trainers-c1161.html

Although it’s not an independent store (yet), the service that Nike I.D. provides earns it’s place in our top five. As a brand, Nike are taking the customising trend very seriously and are attempting to move it away from exactly that; not just a trend, but a valid customer option.

For those who don’t know what Nike I.D is, it’s a trainer customising service. Pick your trainer, pick the colours, hell, even throw your name on if you want. Done. Totally exclusive to your creativity.

I personally know many of the staff members working in the department and you wouldn’t want anyone else serving you, believe me. They are not just knowledgeable, but passionate about the swoosh.

Style options are increasing all the time as well as the colours and materials of the shoe. The possibilities are endless and they’re all at YOUR disposal. This is what INDIVIDUALISM stands for.

236 Oxford Street, Marylebone
London, W1C 1DE

020 7612 0800

Nike Town

So, there you have it, the top five sneaker stores in central London. Become familiar with them and your feet will be your most attractive asset. Just make sure you avoid dog shit.

As Always,

Stay Stylish

Reuben C.

Related posts: Sneaker Brands Part 1, Sneaker Brands Part 2, Cipher Seditionary, TK MAXX the piss take, Top 5 London Trainer Stores

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