Must-Visit Paris Sneaker Stores for Rare Kicks

Paris, often referred to as the ‚City of Love,‘ extends its allure beyond romantic escapades and architectural marvels. For sneaker enthusiasts, it’s a haven where cultural history meets a thriving sneaker culture. The city has not only inspired iconic sneaker designs, such as the classic Air Max 1 by Tinker Hatfield in 1987 but has also grown into a global superpower in the sneaker game. Whether you’re a local sneakerhead or a visitor with a penchant for rare kicks, Paris offers a dream destination with an array of diverse sneaker stores. Navigating through this megalopolis might seem daunting, but fear not – we’ve curated an extensive list of must-visit Parisian sneaker stores for your expedition into the world of rare gems. Bon voyage!

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SHINZO BASKETBALL: Beyond the Court, Into Sneaker Elegance

Situated in the bustling city center, SHINZO BASKETBALL stands out with multiple locations on the same block, each catering to various sneaker categories. This store is a pilgrimage site for basketball aficionados, boasting one of the most impressive sneaker setups in all of Europe. From the latest Jordan Brand and Nike releases to historic, uber-rare grails, SHINZO is a treasure trove for sneaker enthusiasts. The store’s ambiance caters more towards the basketball crowd, evident in the scores of classic NBA jerseys adorning the walls. But even if you’re not a baller, the trip is well worth it, especially with the jaw-dropping rotating conveyor-belt display upstairs.

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Opium: Elevating the Sneaker Game

Just around the corner from SHINZO, Opium adds another layer to Paris’s vibrant sneaker scene. Initially recognized as a basketball-focused retailer, Opium has expanded its repertoire to become a comprehensive destination for sneaker enthusiasts. The inventory runs deep, featuring the latest from Three Stripes, ASICS, Vans, PUMA, Reebok, and, of course, Nike. If you have a penchant for Nike ACG goodies, this store is a must-visit.

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Sneakersnstuff Paris: The Empire Expands

Part of the expansive Sneakersnstuff retail empire, the Parisian branch opened its doors in 2015. True to the brand’s ethos, Sneakersnstuff Paris houses a wide range of brands and apparel within a beautifully executed Bauhaus-inspired interior. The store’s commitment to providing a diverse and curated selection makes it a must-visit for sneaker enthusiasts of all levels.

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Starcow 1996: A Throwback to Authenticity

Parisian streetwear and sneaker stalwarts, Starcow, have taken a nostalgic turn with their 1996 location. A stone’s throw from their principal store, Starcow 1996 aims to recreate the authentic, throwback vibe reminiscent of their initial opening. Specializing in timeless items, special releases (including rare Dunks), graphic tees, and collectibles, Starcow 1996 offers a more memorable pitstop compared to the main space.

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Larry Deadstock: The Hype Fiend’s Paradise

Dubbed as arguably the city’s best consignment sneaker store, Larry Deadstock is a paradise for hype enthusiasts. The archetypal sought-after labels are all there – Supreme, Palace, Off-White, Jordan Brand, and Yeezy, just to name a few – but what sets Larry Deadstock apart is the sheer volume of goodies that will blow your mind. Whether you’re on a budget or ready to splurge, this is a must-visit destination.

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Snipes: Where Street Culture Meets Sneaker Passion

With more than 300 stores across Europe and the US, Snipes has evolved into a retailing behemoth since its inception in 1998. Founded by Sven Voth and drawing inspiration from hip hop, streetball, dance, and action sports, Snipes has become synonymous with urban culture. Frequent collaborations in the pop-culture space, including a Stranger Things collaboration last year, highlight Snipes‘ commitment to staying at the forefront of streetwear and sneaker culture. The recent announcement of DJ Khaled as their chief creative officer cements their position as a significant player in the industry.

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Pigalle: Japanese Influence in the Heart of Paris

Specializing in hard-to-find Japanese labels, Pigalle takes its name from a former red-light district in Paris. Known for collaborating on clean renditions of the Air Force 1 and Air Raid silhouettes, Pigalle embodies Parisian swagger. Founded in 2008 by Stéphane Ashpool, Pigalle is a must for any self-respecting sneakerhead looking to explore unique and exclusive offerings.

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NikeLab P75: A Global Presence in Paris

From Tokyo to New York to Paris and beyond, Nike Lab established its maiden European outpost in 2014 with NikeLab P75. Located in the former Marais book store, NikeLab P75 reconstructs the two-story library into a chic space stocking coveted collaborations from across the globe. Offering some of the most advanced footwear on earth, a visit to NikeLab P75 is akin to attending a sneaker masterclass – be sure to bring a notepad and pen!

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Footpatrol: Widely-Respected, Globally Recognized

The widely-respected Footpatrol made its mark in Paris in 2018, bringing its expertise to the historic Le Marais district. Originating in London in 2002, Footpatrol has established itself as a purveyor of the most elusive sneakers in the game. Positioned not far from the iconic Pompidou building, part of the inspiration behind the Air Max 1, Footpatrol Paris is a store you’ll undoubtedly revisit.

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The Next Door: Skate Culture Maestros

The maestros of the Parisian skate scene, The Next Door, is a must-visit spot. Founded by Nicolas Ivars, The Next Door started in Avignon, southeastern France, in 2006, before making its mark in Paris in January 2019. The inner-city counterpart boasts 800 square meters and several floors close to the Canal Saint-Martin. If you’re still lamenting colette’s closure, The Next Door should aid in the healing process with its curated selection and commitment to the Parisian skate culture.

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size?: A Decades-Long Legacy in Paris

Quite simply, you’d be remiss to overlook size? in Paris. Packed with exclusive footwear, size? has been one of the most active collaborators in the sneaker game for over two decades. With recent spins on silhouettes like the Air Max 270, adidas LXCON 94, and adidas BC Trainer, size? continues to push boundaries. Don’t forget to stop in and congratulate them on their 20th anniversary – it’s a testament to their enduring influence in the ever-evolving world of sneakers.

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Wanderlust for Sneaker Exploration

Is your wanderlust kicking in yet? While exploring Paris’s enchanting streets and iconic landmarks, don’t forget to embark on a sneaker expedition through these handpicked gems. For further sneaker itineraries, check out our guides for Tokyo, London, Melbourne, and New York. And for a comprehensive Sne