Ep 3. Stranger Things

In season 4 episode 3 of Sneaker Shopping, host Joe La Puma takes viewers on a trip down nostalgia lane with a special episode dedicated to the hit Netflix show Stranger Things. La Puma is joined by Caleb McLaughlin, who plays Lucas Sinclair on the show and is a sneakerhead in his own right.

The episode starts off with a discussion about the link between sneaker culture and pop culture. La Puma and McLaughlin talk about how sneakers have become a symbol of status and style, and how they are often used by celebrities and characters in movies and TV shows to signal their personality and identity. McLaughlin shares his own experiences with sneaker culture, and how he became interested in it through basketball and hip-hop.

Next, the pair walk through the store, with McLaughlin pointing out some of his favorite sneakers and talking about their history and design. The store is filled with classic sneakers from the 80s and 90s, including some that were popular during the time period in which Stranger Things is set. La Puma and McLaughlin discuss how sneakers have evolved over time, with new technologies and materials being used to create more comfortable and durable sneakers.

One of the highlights of the episode is when McLaughlin picks out a pair of Jordans that he wore during filming of Stranger Things. He talks about how he chose them as part of his character's look, and how sneakers can be an important part of a character's visual identity. La Puma and McLaughlin also discuss other iconic sneakers from movies and TV shows, such as Marty McFly's Nike Mags from Back to the Future and the Adidas Sambas worn by the character Shaun in the movie Shaun of the Dead.

Throughout the episode, La Puma and McLaughlin also discuss the role of sneakers in fashion and how they can be incorporated into different styles and outfits. They talk about how sneakers have become more mainstream, with brands like Nike and Adidas collaborating with high-end fashion designers to create limited edition sneakers. They also discuss how sneakers can be used to express individuality and creativity, with collectors customizing their sneakers with unique colors, materials, and designs.

The episode culminates with McLaughlin trying on a few different pairs of sneakers and ultimately choosing his favorite. La Puma then surprises him with an exclusive pair of Jordans designed by artist Brian Donnelly, also known as KAWS. McLaughlin is thrilled with the sneakers, and talks about how he will incorporate them into his personal style.

Overall, Sneaker Shopping season 4 episode 3 is a fun and informative celebration of sneaker culture and pop culture. The episode combines interesting discussions about the history and technology of sneakers with insights into how they can be used to express identity and style. Fans of Stranger Things will enjoy seeing McLaughlin in a different setting and learning about his own sneaker preferences. And for anyone who appreciates sneakers, the episode is a must-watch.