Why Chicago's the Center of Sneaker Culture

The new movie “Air” tells the story behind Michael Jordan’s debut shoe, the Air Jordan 1, nearly 40 years ago. Its groundbreaking launch sparked a wave of innovations across shoe companies and squarely placed Chicago as a leader in sneakerhead culture. If you’re not familiar, a sneakerhead is someone who collects, trades, or admires sneakers. For many, it is about so much more than a shoe. It’s about the design process, the story, the swagger, the nostalgia, and sometimes the hype. Host Jacoby Cochran visits Sneakerhead University, an interactive gallery and workshop in the Loop, with owner Shay Belvin to talk about Chicago’s place in sneaker history and her personal love for the culture. Some news: The Chicago Humanities Spring Festival begins today. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter.  Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE