The definitive illustrated history of sneaker culture and design.
Out of the Box explores the remarkable evolution of sneakers, tracing their journey from nineteenth-century athletic footwear to some of the most influential fashion and cultural icons of the modern era. Published alongside the groundbreaking traveling exhibition, this richly illustrated volume celebrates the innovation, creativity, and impact of sneakers over nearly two centuries.
Drawing from the renowned collections of the Bata Shoe Museum, leading private collectors, museums, and the archives of brands such as adidas, Converse, Nike, and Reebok, the book showcases an extraordinary range of footwear. Highlights include an 1860 spiked running shoe, 1936 Olympic track shoes, the original Air Force 1, Air Jordan I through XX3, early adidas Superstars, and limited-edition collaborations by artists and designers including Damien Hirst, Jeremy Scott, Jeff Staple, and Kanye West.
Complemented by insightful essays and interviews with designers, collectors, and cultural historians, Out of the Box examines the technological breakthroughs, design innovations, marketing strategies, and cultural movements that transformed sneakers from performance gear into global symbols of style and self-expression.
Featuring rare prototype sketches from legendary Nike designer Tinker Hatfield and countless iconic models, this beautifully curated volume is an essential reference for sneaker enthusiasts, collectors, designers, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of sports, fashion, and popular culture.
