A global phenomenon that not only celebrates the cannabis community, but also ignites the sneaker world: 4/20! Increasingly, we see sneaker brands releasing exclusive sneakers that pay homage to the 4/20 culture, such as cannabis-inspired colorways.
And with this unofficial holiday just around the corner, we decided to take a look at the best 4/20 sneaker releases that give a nod to this special day.
What does 4/20 mean?
First, let's address the question: 'What does 4/20 mean?' For those not yet familiar with the term, 4/20 is an informal global event that takes place every year on 20 April. It is a day when cannabis users come together to 'celebrate' the cannabis plant and recognise the progress of legalisation. But perhaps most importantly: just have fun!
History of 4/20
But where did the specific date 4/20 and time 4:20 come from? While the exact origins are not entirely clear, there is one theory that is most commonly used.
It probably all started in 1971 in California, at San Rafael High School. Here, a group of teenagers met after school at 16:20 (4.20 p.m.) at the Louis Pasteur statue on campus to smoke marijuana.
This group of friends - Steve Capper, Dave Reddix, Jeffrey Noel, Larry Schwartz and Mark Gravich - was known as the 'Waldos' because their typical hangout spot was 'a wall outside the school'. They used the term '420 Louis' as the code word for their original plan, which was to find unguarded cannabis plants in Point Reyes.
After failing time and again to find the plants, the group eventually shortened their term to '420', which later evolved into a code word the teenagers used to refer to using cannabis.
Global phenomenon
Later, Dave Reddix's brother helped him get work as a roadie for Phil Lesh, Grateful Dead's bassist. The Waldos started hanging around the band and soon their slang spread.
On 28 December 1990, some fans of the band Grateful Dead handed out flyers in Oakland inviting people to smoke on 20 April at 16:20. One of these flyers ended up with Steve Bloom, a former reporter for High Times magazine, an authority on cannabis culture. The magazine published the flyer in 1991 and kept referring to '420'. It soon became known worldwide as code for marijuana.
4/20 in the sneaker scene
Now that we have a better understanding of what 4/20 means, let's look at how this day is making its mark on the world of sneakers. It is no secret that streetwear culture is closely linked to the cannabis community, and sneaker designers and brands are cleverly capitalising on this.
Nike SB's very first clear connection came in the form of a low Dunk, made of hemp with a maroon Swoosh on top. When this sneaker was released on 16 April, the reference was not entirely clear. But when another hemp Dunk, with a blue Swoosh and soles, was launched on 20 April, the subtle link became much clearer.
Both models, along with a later green variant, are now considered a key moment in the history of 4/20 releases and Nike SB.
Best 4/20 sneaker releases
After these three SB Dunks, many brands followed by producing 4/20 sneaker designs. But which are the most iconic? We have listed some of them for you!
Nike SB Dunk High 'Skunk' | 313171-300
The Nike SB Dunk High 'Skunk' is perhaps the most popular of them all. The suede upper feels nice and soft and is inspired by the famous cannabis, with different shades of green featured on it. The purple accents on the side Swoosh and sole give the design an extra touch that really fits the theme.
Nike SB Dunk High '420' | CW9971-500
Next we have the Nike SB Dunk High '420', also known as the 'Reverse Skunk'. This pair is based on the sneaker above, but in a new look. The suede upper in various shades of purple catches the eye, with green accents on the Swoosh, rear tab, tongue and outsole. What makes this pair really special is that it is limited to just 420 pieces, each individually numbered.
South Park x adidas Campus 80s 'Towelie' | GZ9177
The South Park x adidas Campus 80s 'Towelie' sneaker pays homage to beloved stoner character Towelie from the iconic animated series. This shoe features handy storage pockets for your weed, and the inside of the tongue is decorated with Towelie's famous slogan: 'Don't forget to bring a towel.' The tongue's label features Towelie's eyes, which turn red under UV light.
Reebok Classic Leather 'Morning Sessions' | FZ3372
The Reebok Classic Leather 'Morning Sessions' takes a slightly different approach. Here, the leather upper mimics a sunrise, with blue tones reminiscent of the sky. On the tongue and next to the branding, you can see eye graphics that reflect the eyes of a stoner who has just lit up a joint.
Bait x adidas Stan Smith Vulc 'Happy' | AQ7936
The Bait x adidas Stan Smith Vulc 'Happy' has a grey upper made of hemp, decorated with a black graphic. Smiling faces are visible on this graphic, while the heel piece is covered in soft green suede. The tongue contains sneaky storage pockets and on the heel you will find pull tabs with the text 'High Potency'. Also striking is the word 'HIIIGH', which clearly shows the inspiration.
Nike SB Dunk High 'Strawberry Cough' | CW7093-600
Of course, the Nike SB 'Strawberry Cough' cannot be missing from the list of 4/20 sneakers. Inspired by the popular marijuana strain, this shoe mimics a real strawberry with textured overlays green accents at the collar. The most striking detail that nods to cannabis is the strawberry that is depicted coughing on the side and can also be seen on the insole.
Vans Vault 'Palm Leaf' | VN0A45JKVQK
Since Vans is rooted in California and skateboard culture, it is no surprise that the brand makes a playful reference to marijuana. For nearly a decade, the brand has worked on an extensive collection of 'Palm Leaf' sneaker designs. These sneakers come in different colours with the palm leaf design, which resembles cannabis leaves.
Sneaker Freaker x Saucony Grid SD 'Kushwacker' | S70191-1
In 2015, an Australian publication and Saucony joined forces to create a Saucony Grid SD with a cannabis-inspired design. The famous Purple Haze cannabis strain served as inspiration for the purple accents on the toe, tongue and heel. The rest of the model is black, with Saucony's logo in brown on the midfoot.
adidas Samba OG '420' | DB3011EB
The adidas Samba OG '420' is perfect for those who like laid-back style. The high-quality suede upper comes in a mix of purple and grey, and even has a cleverly hidden pocket. The translucent rubber outsole has the '4/20' detail, completing the theme.
Nike SB Dunk High 'Cheech and Chong' | 305050-100
The 2011 Nike SB Dunk High 'Cheech And Chong' pays homage to the iconic style of stoner duo Tommy Chong and Cheech Marin. The striking upper in white and red creates a unique look that is sure to attract attention. Only 1,000 pairs are available worldwide, making them truly exclusive.
Did you get some more insight into the world of 4/20 and sneakers, dear community? Keep following the Sneakerjagers release calendar, because there could be some cool 420 kicks beeing released soon! Think, for example, the Pleasures x Reebok Club C Bulc 'Not Guilty' or the Dazed and Confused x Puma Suede 'Persian Blue'.
