Sneaker Week PDX was born from a vision shared by Herbert Beauclere and Megan Davis, two experienced brand managers with industry-leading resumes. What began as a passion project has evolved into Portland's premier footwear festival, connecting global sneaker culture with the city's thriving footwear industry.
Founded in 2017, Sneaker Week PDX emerged from a simple but powerful insight: the solutions to many of the industry's challenges around culture, diversity, and talent were already present in Portland's vibrant creative community. By building bridges between enthusiasts, aspiring professionals, and established industry leaders, Sneaker Week has become a catalyst for positive change in the footwear world.
Since our inception, we've programmed over 150 events in collaboration with community partners, corporate brands, and small businesses. Each experience is carefully crafted to highlight the diverse perspectives that make up global sneaker culture while showcasing Portland's unique footwear ecosystem.
More than just a series of events, Sneaker Week PDX is a movement that recognizes sneakers as powerful symbols of self-expression, identity, and cultural significance. We provide a platform for enthusiasts to connect and engage in a vibrant, inclusive environment while advocating for social responsibility and sustainability within the industry.
In a world where access and opportunity have traditionally been limited, Sneaker Week PDX stands as a platform for inclusion. We believe that the future of footwear will be shaped by diverse voices, perspectives, and talents—and we're committed to making that future a reality.
We create opportunities for the diverse cultures, identities, and interests of the global sneaker community to connect meaningfully with Portland's footwear ecosystem. By fostering these relationships, we enrich both the community and the industry.
The most innovative solutions emerge when passionate enthusiasts and forward-thinking brands collaborate as equals. Sneaker Week PDX nurtures these connections, creating spaces where authentic conversation and co-creation can thrive.
Our audience is as diverse as the sneaker culture itself, bringing together people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds who share a passion for footwear. Sneaker Week attendees typically fall into three main categories:
Sneaker Enthusiasts: Athletes and collectors who appreciate the artistry, history, and cultural significance of sneakers.
Aspiring Professionals: Students and influencers who are looking to build careers in the footwear industry and seeking connections, education, and inspiration.
Industry Professionals: Employees and directors from established footwear brands who bring their expertise and insights to our events while discovering fresh perspectives and emerging talent.
