Shoe Surgeon to the Stars: One Custom Sneaker Too Far?

As LeBron James closed in on the NBA NBA's all-time scoring record last year, Nike wanted a pair of one-of-a-kind sneakers made to commemorate the achievement. They reached out to Dominic Ciambrone, also known as The Shoe Surgeon, an LA-based custom designer famous for reworking the world's rarest kicks and giving them new life.

Ciambrone is known for his custom sneakers which were sported by numerous celebrities including Snoop Dogg, Kehlani, DJ Khaled, Kourtney Kardashian, and Colin Kaepernick. To give an idea of just how unique and intricate Ciambrone's designs are, his work has been covered by major media companies and publications around the world.

The particular custom sneakers were originally based on a famous Air Zoom Generation 1. Some speculated that the shoes could fetch up to 90000 dollars in some auction. However when one more pair almost similar to that of Lebron appeared, not owned by James but some one else.

Nike asserted the authenticity of the sneakers as they issued a statement affirming that the only authentic pair were the ones that were made for him during the record. To make it clear what The Shoe Surgeon did and the problems this Nike move might pose we will first look at Ciambrone.

In addition to his success with celebrities and athletes, Ciambrone has also experienced a lot of criticism. Among his critics, some are the brands that make the shoes that he works on. Although other bigger brands still choose to be silent on The Shoe Surgeon.

The Shoe Surgeon not only makes shoes look different, but his impact is also largely felt throughout the fashion industry. Today, people will spend over a thousand dollars to own a slice of The Shoe Surgeon.

That is the reason many brands want him on their side based on how much value he can add to any shoe.

Nike move could have a negative impact as because through history, if art may get copied, its appreciated which people call flattery. To make a case against something like that is what The Shoe Surgeon could come forward with. Another thing would be what Nike is in pursuit against him whether or nor its monetary or not.