Influential Women in the World of Sneakers

The sneaker community is a constantly evolving cycle, influenced by individuals who are passionate about footwear. Last year highlighted a number of inspiring females who made a momentous impact on the sneaker community. Let's take a look at some of the most influential female figures in this area.

Sanne Poeze

Sanne Poeze stands behind the creative part of the She Kicks book, a first publication about women leading the sneaker world. The book dropped at the end of 2022, and it features the female entrepreneurs, designers and marketers who influenced the sneaker community. Even though there were some tough times, she managed to overcome the struggle and finish what she started. “New motherhood, running a business, and working on the book took its toll on me last December and I ended up in a burnout”, stated Sanne back in November 2022. She expressed her gratitude towards her team that stood behind her when she was at her worst. By finishing the product, and revealing her weak moments, Sanne Poeze has proven the woman's strength we all admire.

Aleali May

Stylist, fashion blogger, model and recently also a sneaker designer, who has been in the sneaker community for quite some time, is another great example of a young talented woman. In recent years she released her own line of Air Jordan silhouettes, taking inspiration from her love and passion for vintage fashion and streetwear. She has made herself the one of two women to ever design for Nike, and the first one to create a unisex pair of Jordans. Aleali is a special one, as well as all her creations within the fashion area.

Yoon Ahn

Japanese fashion designer and the founder of the Ambush brand, Yoon Ahn, imprinted herself into multiple Nike's silhouettes. Her capability to combine multiple designs into one shoe has brought her an amount of followers among the sneakerhead community. Today she's in charge of Ambush as a creative director. Moreover Yoon Ahn is also the design director of a jewellery line created by Dior Homme. She leads the crowds with her work that intrigued people like Kanye West, deceased Virgil Abloh or Kim Jones.

Naomi Osaka

Staying in Japan we need to introduce you to Naomi Osaka, a professional tennis player who has quickly become one of the most influential athletes in the world. She doesn't want to fit in the crowd - she's too busy doing her own thing. With that being said, it is obvious that Osaka is a true inspiration to many. She got where she is thanks to her ability to be herself, and she continues to do that every single day, teaching everyone that the world doesn't define you. It's all up to you. And that's exactly what she's shown through her colourful collaboration with Nike.

All of the above-mentioned females have one thing in common. Okay, with their love for sneakers maybe more things, although the most important feature is their ability to show the world that no matter the conditions, you can make it. By being yourself, using your talents and embracing your inner star, you can become one of them. You may not be a celebrity, singer or an athlete, but a woman who isn't afraid to do her own thing. So put on your favourite kicks and let's run the world.

Still hungry for more? In that case, you can check out the selection of women's sneakers or browse through our release calendar where you might find more products from collaborations with influential women.