Last weekend, I was able to experience the fourth annual Complexcon in Long Beach, California. For those who don’t know, Complexcon is a convention showcasing modern art, exclusive brand collaborated items and energetic musical performances. It was a sneaker head’s dream playground, and I loved every second of being there. In this episode of Sole Stories, I will talk a little bit about my experience at the convention as well as what I learned by going to the event.
The two day event started by waiting anxiously in line to get into the venue. We got in line two hours before the doors opened at 11a.m. because we knew there was going to be a lot of people; our first priority of the event was being able to acquire some of the limited merchandise and sneakers dropping. Something I really wanted to get were the Feature x Vans “Sinners Club” collaboration. These shoes are Vegas-themed vans that only released at Complexcon in limited quantities. I ended up acquiring both pairs just in time before they sold out in my size – it was exhilarating to know they were mine.
Other than getting the Vans, I was blown away by what was available to see and do at the event. I was able to listen to rapper LL Cool J talk about what it was like early on in his rap career. I also participated in Complexcon(versations), which included various topics and speakers who are well known figures in the ‘streetwear’ fashion industry. The best conversation from day one was “Sneaker Of The Year,” which was a list of 10 sneakers compiled by a team at Complex to recognize the best 10 sneaker releases of 2019. It was fun to see Sean Wotherspoon (Designer of the Air Max 1/97 ‘Sean Wotherspoon’), Joe La Puma and Eleali May argue over what sneakers should have been on the list and if the sneakers on the list were worthy to be considered a top release of 2019. The list makers at Complex crowned the Nike LD Waffle Sacai as the best sneaker to release in 2019 so far. I agree with the decision to put the LD Waffle Sacai at number one, but there was a mixed response from the crowd when the shoe came up as first place on the list. Some people in the crowd booed while others cheered. Overall, it was fun being a part of that experience.
The finale of day one was an electrifying concert that hosted rapper Kid Cudi. Kid Cudi brought the roof down with his powerful beats and help from a surprise appearance from Pusha T. Day one was full of really enjoyable moments and was something I will never forget.
Day two had a lot of the same elements as the first but on day two I was able to meet and talk to Aleali May. Aleali May is the second woman ever to design and have creative control on her own Jordan sneaker silhouette (Jordan 1 Retro High Aleali May Shadow). She exudes coolness and is considered to be sneaker culture royalty in my eyes.
When I asked Aleali about her experience at Complexcon in our brief conversation, she replied, “It was really good because now we are starting to see different spaces and creativity level in our subculture.” Meeting her reminded me once again of the power of sneaker culture and how it brings people of similar interests together from all across the world. Day two I saw 21 Savage, Lil Yachty and Dwayne Wade walking around shopping and talking to fans while at the venue, which was pretty special.
The end of day two was capped off by live performances from rappers A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and Da Baby. These two rappers are both climbing in popularity, and I have started to pay more and more attention to them.
Overall, Complexcon was nothing like I had ever been a part of. I saw so many incredible sneakers, walked around evaluating art and sculpture with celebrities, and talked clothing and sneaker designers up close and personal. It was beyond my imagination. If you are reading this and you love sneakers, fashion, or art, I recommend finding a way to attend this event next year. It is an event truly unlike any other, filled with learning and novelty unparalleled to anything I have experienced.
