Smooth Harold, The Blog of Blake Snow » shoes

Reebok Pump documentary is form over function awesome

Blake — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 16:38:07 +0000

Although gimmicky, Reebok Pump became such a phenomenon in the early ’90s, that even Nike released pressurized knock-offs for a while. That being the case, the above documentary of Pump technology is well worth 22 minutes of your time. Featuring the inventor of the shoe, Dee Brown, Michael Chang, and urban collectors.

Ugliest. Shoes. Ever.

Blake — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 16:08:56 +0000

The black coloring makes them look more discreet than they really are. When seen in-person, it’s as if I’m wearing ballerina slippers. (Ridiculous!) Nevertheless, I’m excited to review what’s been called the “next best thing to barefooting” on my daily runs—no heel crashing allowed. Wait for it.

I believe I can fly: Top 5 Nike Air Jordans

Blake — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:23:44 +0000

I’ve always admired Michael Jordan’s athleticism, style, and grace in the air. He was the greatest basketball player ever. And even though I only owned a single pair of his pricey Air Jordans (version IV, thanks Mom!), I’ve always like the form factor of his shoes, especially the earlier models. So stick your tongue out, poke your air pocket, and check out the top 5 Air Jordans all time:

Overheard at the Snow’s house: “You look like a five year-old”

Blake — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 20:01:26 +0000

Is it possible to have an identity complex a year before turning 30? After changing my hair two weeks ago, I decided to wear high socks with shorts today (I need new pants, plus the weather is nice, okay?). Excited about my throw back to ’90s sock fashion, I asked Lindsey what she thought. “You look like a five year-old,” she proclaimed. Maybe so, but I’m tired of anklet socks. Besides, it’s kind of fun to be different, and who do I need to impress? (I’m married.)

Poll: What’s your favorite brand of sneaker?

Blake — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 22:38:17 +0000

Though I used to be a Nike man, I now fly the Puma flag and have for the last five years. It’s Romas or die, for me. But what about you? What’s your preferred maker of athletic shoes? Do tell.

Classic commercials: Reebok Pump vs. Nike Air

Blake — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 12:48:49 +0000

Click here to view the embedded video.

Oh, how I miss the advertising rivalries of the 80s.

Further reading:

Why Zappos Pays New Employees to Quit—And You Should Too

Blake — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:20:23 +0000

harvardbusiness.com — “Zappos sells shoes —lots of them—over the Internet. After a week or so of employment with the company, it’s time for what Zappos calls “The Offer.” “If you quit today, we will pay you for the amount of time you’ve worked, plus we will offer you a $1,000 bonus.” Zappos actually bribes its new employees to quit!”

It pays to be in it for the long haul…