The looting of the vintage sneaker shop,“The Holy Grail” should not only be a huge disappointment to fellow Laker fans, but it’s a loss to those part of the sneaker culture. According to the LA Times, after the looting, there were less than 20 pairs of sneakers remaining out of the 800 pairs they had in stock. (http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2009/06/sneaker-store.html)
On behalf of those actually addicted to sneakers, we sympathize with the loss of the collector shoes at “The Holy Grail”. Those who know sneakers have to be outraged by the act of others obtaining them through force and ultimately lack of respect. Even if someone stole a pair with the intention of wearing them, there’s no pride in that. Not like there is for those who are scraping up some money in a dismal economy for a coveted pair of sneakers. That is only for a true sneaker-holic.
We went to check out “The Holy Grail” this Saturday for its re-opening, and we found not only an overwhelming amount of press and support, but an optimistic owner and staff. Those from the sneaker community came together to show their support to the owner and other sneaker fans that want to see the store thrive again. These are the true fans we had in mind when creating our “Addicted to Sneakers” shirt.
We would like to think that those who are responsible for the damage done to “The Holy Grail” understand the devastation and disrespect they have shown to the sneaker community. Though the night turned into an irrational mob committing shameless acts – it definitely is not part of the sneaker community we witnessed on Saturday afternoon.
The shelves of “The Holy Grail” on Saturday.
for more information about “The Holy Grail”, go to www.holyrailgoods.com
