Watch Lace Up: The Ultimate Sneaker Challenge

Lace Up: The Ultimate Sneaker Challenge is a YouTube Red show that premiered in 2017. The series, which redefines the concept of sneaker culture, follows twelve young aspiring footwear designers as they battle it out to be crowned the next great sneaker creator. The show is hosted by Adande 'Swoozie' Thorne, a well-known YouTube personality and sneaker fanatic. The contestants are mentored by industry veterans Kasey Brown, a shoe designer and senior director at adidas, and Anthony Anderson, a designer and creator of Creative Recreation.

Over the course of ten episodes, the young designers are put to the test as they tackle challenges ranging from design and materials to marketing and sales. Each week a celebrity guest judge joins the panel, which is composed of Brown, Anderson, and Thorne, to evaluate the contestants' work, critique their designs, and ultimately eliminate one designer.

The contestants are judged based on their innovation, design vision, and ability to translate it into a viable product. The judges place a strong emphasis on social media engagement, marketing tactics, and branding strategies, highlighting the importance of understanding the consumer and the marketplace.

Throughout the competition, the designers are given access to state-of-the-art tools and resources to help them bring their designs to life. They work in a state-of-the-art studio, equipped with 3D printing, laser cutting, and sewing machines. As they progress through the competition, they work on creating a signature sneaker that will be judged by a panel of sneaker experts and enthusiasts.

The show also focuses on the personal stories of the contestants, highlighting their individual struggles and triumphs as they aspire to make their dream a reality. The designers come from different backgrounds and have varying levels of experience, but share a passion for sneaker culture and a desire to create something that stands out.

Beyond the competition itself, Lace Up also sheds light on the broader sneaker culture and its impact on fashion, art, and society. The show features iconic sneaker designs from the past and present, as well as insightful commentary from industry insiders and cultural critics.

Overall, Lace Up: The Ultimate Sneaker Challenge is a thrilling and engaging series that showcases the convergence of art, technology, and business in the world of sneaker culture. The show combines the excitement of a reality competition with the education of a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most popular areas of fashion. Fans of sneaker culture, entrepreneurship, and design will find plenty to enjoy in this show.