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Trump's 'Never Surrender' Sneakers Spark Controversy at Sneaker Con

Former President Donald Trump's limited-edition sneakers, unveiled at Sneaker Con, face backlash from attendees and sneaker enthusiasts.

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Donald Trump introduced his new line of signature shoes at Sneaker Con at the Philadelphia Convention Center on Feb. 17, 2024.
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Overview

  • Trump introduced the $399 'Never Surrender High-Top Sneaker' at Sneaker Con Philadelphia, amid a judge ordering him to pay over $350m in a civil trial.
  • The sneakers, limited to 1,000 pairs with some autographed by Trump, were criticized for being 'tacky' and exploiting sneaker culture for political gain.
  • Attendees and sneakerheads expressed disappointment, citing sneakers should unite rather than divide, and criticized the event for turning into a Trump rally.
  • Roman Sharf, a luxury watch dealer, bought a pair for $9,000, later facing scrutiny and being mislabeled as a 'Russian oligarch' by some media outlets.
  • Sharf defended his purchase and patriotism, emphasizing his Ukrainian origin and service in the U.S. military, while dismissing the Russian oligarch narrative.