The Brooklyn skyline from the 23rd floor of the Brooklyn Bridge Marriott seems strange — until you look between buildings and see the familiar profile of Lady Liberty in the distance, somewhat shrouded by smog. It feels good that she is there.
During our recent vacation, Kish and Russell had high times making fun of these tennis shoes. Kish said they looked like golf shoes and called them the Sammy Sneads every time I put them on. Russell, on the other hand, shook his head and sadly advised that shoes made by Skechers are per se uncool.
I bought the shoes at Kohl’s. They were on the bargain shelf and cost a small fraction of the other gym shoes. I didn’t know whether they are socially acceptable or not, because I pay no attention to shoe fashion. I didn’t care whether popular people wear shoes with square toes, round toes, or pointed toes, or whether stripes on the sides are “in” or “out.”
What I did know is that I rebel at the notion of paying more than $100 for a pair of gym shoes that I wear around the neighborhood. The prices of such shoes seem ridiculous for mass-produced rubber, plastic, and cloth creations. Obviously, people are paying for brands and status symbols.
I could care less about that. I admit I’m a cheapskate. I’ll go for low cost and functionality over “branding” any time. I’m not a runner. I don’t play competitive sports. I’m not trying to make a fashion statement when I go for a walk.
Give me durable shoes that fit and leave money in my wallet, and I’ll wear them happily — “Sneads” or not.
Webner House 