Welcome to Sneakernomics

Trainers? Sneakers? Whatever you call them - they are amongst the most iconic cultural objects of our time. But their evolution is a story rarely told until now.

Sneakernomics is a close encounter with the visionaries who’ve made, and been made, by trainers. We’ll follow in the footsteps of mavericks, hustlers and dreamers, and hear their tales of boom and bust, fame and infamy, hope and heartbreak.

It’s 100 years since salesman Chuck Taylor joined Converse and the Chuck Taylor All-Star was born, perhaps the most iconic trainer of all time. Across nine episodes, we trace the extraordinary transformation that has happened since, telling the origin stories of some of the world’s biggest brands and how leisure evolved into a multi-billion-dollar industry.

The sneaker story is characterised by fierce competition and rivalry. We explore how the quest to be No. 1 tore families and friendships apart, divided towns, and sometimes even distorted sporting ideals.

Presented by Nicholas Smith, (author of Kicks: The Great American Story of Sneakers) and 1Xtra presenter Ace, with drama written by multi award-winning playwright and screenwriter Al Smith.