Singapore’s biggest sneaker convention is back for its fifth consecutive run, bringing the latest collection of sneakers and the best deals. What’s more? An after-party headlined by Falcons, The Whooligan and Yeti Out.
Singapore’s premier streetwear and sneaker convention return on 25th November for its biggest edition yet at Zouk’s new sprawling grounds in Clarke Quay. Expect to see more than 10,000 pairs of sneakers up on sale and get ready to shop, sell and trade for the best deals. What’s more? Accessories, artworks and live music as well as an after-party headlined by Los Angeles based DJ/Producer, Falcons and other international acts.
Without a doubt, Jonathan Fong and Dexter Tan know a thing or two about sneakers, street style, and athleisure. It’s been 5 years since they launched Sole Superior- the annual convention where sneaker aficionado have been waiting for. This year, it will be held at Zouk’s new Clarke Quay space.“The new place is beautiful,” explains Dexter. “While Jonathan and I are big fans of the old Jiak Kim complex- the breeding grounds of street culture back in the day, Zouk’s new complex is an example of evolution over time.”
Zouk has always been the go-to home for Sole Superior, doubling up as an event space before the doors open to partygoers. This year’s edition of Sole Superior is a clear sign that the revamped superclub has lost none of its touch, with new fixtures, design and layout acting as reflections of what the young partygoer wants. The address may have changed, but the vibe remains the same, if not better.
For those new to Sole Superior, it’s an event where Singapore’s street culture gets its chance to shine. Regional and homegrown brands take centre stage, and you might just rub shoulders with big-time sneaker collectors who are just as enthused about the convention. For SG$10 a ticket, sneakerheads can check out what’s new from leading local sneaker stores like Limited Edt, witness a coveted sneaker release (rumour is it’s an adidas Yeezy Boost), peep the latest collections from New Balance and get their kicks restored or order custom sneakers from the likes of IED Customs, and even do 1-to-1 trades with other sellers on the convention floor. There are over 60 vendors in total, ensuring that no matter what kind of fan you are, there’s something for you.
A host of independent clothing brands, such as Suave Clothing Co will either make their debut or showcase their upcoming collections to the massive crowd expected to run into the thousands. Art aficionados can get acquainted with homegrown creatives and music lovers can dabble in vinyls courtesy of The Analog Vault and Audio Technica. If that’s not enough, the DJs from Singapore’s very own Wavy music collective will also be spinning all afternoon long.
As hinted at earlier in this story, Sole Superior was not put together by a team. From its inception in 2013 to execution, the convention was organised by two die-hard sneaker collectors. The lack of proper events catered to the street culture community prompted the duo to create their own, with the aim of having every participant bringing home an unforgettable experience.
“We started Sole Superior primarily because we felt Singapore needed sneaker and streetwear events, more so an actual convention like those happening globally,” Dexter explains. “As we organised the first, we realised that Sole Superior could also be a platform for brands, companies and sellers to interact with their buyers, allowing them to ask for feedback, test the market and more.”
Four years after the inaugural edition, and with over 4,000 attendees last year, both Dexter and Jonathan still hold their core ideals close, ensuring that vendors remain relevant to the crowd and that the giveaways are worth the ticket price.
“When we officially launched our first event in 2013, not many people believed that two guys like us could pull it off,” said Dexter. It took plenty of pitching and negotiating to get brands onboard, but once Dexter and Jonathan found their footing, it wasn’t long before support came and interest from the public was piqued.
When asked what impressed him the most, Dexter only had this to say. “I think the most impressive thing that we noticed is the sheer support of the sneaker and streetwear community. Every year, without fail we see tons of people turn up and have a good time. Straight up, without their support, there would not have been a Sole Superior to begin with. They are the main reason why we keep doing this and we are very grateful for the love and support!”
So whether you’re a youth who’s embarking on a journey into the world of sneakers, a young adult who knows street culture at his fingertips, or a parent who’s looking for a place to bring the kids, Sole Superior is where you get the right exposure to everything about street culture.
Find out more at Sole Superior’s Facebook page.
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