Watch What Are Those
- TV-14
- 1970
- 1 Season
What Are Those is a critically acclaimed sports show by Sports Illustrated TV that delves into the world of sneakers, focusing particularly on the most heavily valued commodity in the sneaker world - basketball shoes. The show premiered in 2019 and showcases the latest trends and releases in the sneaker market, and discusses their cultural impact and significance.
What Are Those is hosted by Jarrel Harris, a well-known die-hard sneakerhead and sports fan. Harris has a deep knowledge of the sneaker world, having grown up with basketball shoes and following their evolution ever since. His unique perspective and articulate style of narration in breaking down the intricacies of sneaker design and their cultural significance make him the perfect host for the show.
What Are Those explores several aspects of the sneaker world, ranging from the history and legacy of iconic shoes, their role in the world of fashion, the role of celebrities and sports stars in driving demand and shaping trends, and the economics behind sneaker sales. Through in-depth interviews with designers, athletes, and industry experts, the show provides a sneak peek into rare and exclusive kicks that are not only coveted by die-hard fans but are also considered art.
One of the unique aspects of the show is its ability to showcase the intersectionality between the sneaker and sportswear industry and the wider cultural landscape. The show features segments which look at sneakers beyond their limited scope as sports gear, but highlight how they have penetrated every aspect of contemporary culture.
What Are Those also used its platform to address the social issues arising in the sneaker industry. From discussing the ethical concerns over sneaker manufacture and supply chain practices to analyzing the increasing demand for counterfeit sneakers, the show reflects on the social responsibility that the sneaker industry bears in shaping the global discourse on fashion and consumerism.
The show also provides a platform for sneaker enthusiasts to showcase their collections and discuss their unique buying experiences. The personal and emotional connections that people form with their favorite sneakers underscores the show's message that these basketball shoes are more than just mere pieces of footwear, but important cultural artifacts.
Overall, What Are Those is a must-watch for sneakerheads and anyone with a passing interest in the world of sports and fashion. The show is not just for those interested in basketball shoes but appeals to anyone fascinated by the cultural impact of consumerism and fashion trends. Jarrell Harris and the Sports Illustrated production team have produced a masterclass in sneaker culture that transcends the world of sports and incorporates it into wider cultural perspectives. Watching the show leaves no doubt that, for many, athletic shoes are much more than just footwear.
What Are Those is a series that ran for 1 seasons (9 episodes) between January 1, 1970 and on Sports Illustrated TV