Whether you’re a “sneakerhead” or just wear functional shoes, the many acronyms in the shoe game can often be confusing: Do the letters on the shoe box represent size SE? Does it refer to the type of shoe? Or does it mean just color or pattern?
So how special are Special Edition shoes? Can you find them in any mall? Let’s take a look at what Special Edition or SE shoes are and how that designation affects people who want to buy a pair.
What does SE mean in terms of shoes?
The world of fashion doesn’t just stop at the jeans you wear or the dress you wear; What we wear on our feet is just as important. Many invest a lot of time and money in shoe collections and for many the range of sneakers available in the US is particularly exciting.
So if you find a limited edition or special sneaker, adding it to your collection is even more exciting. The acronym SE tells you that you have something unique on your hands, and these two letters on the box and price tag are a sure way to indicate that your expectations might be a little high. However, Special Edition (SE) shoes aren’t for everyone and often cost a pretty penny.
But since SE sneakers and shoes are often made in limited quantities or for a specific amount of time, it can be worth setting aside some cash to get your hands on them, especially if you plan to show them off or keep them in good condition. as part of a collection. from a serious collection.
Let’s dive into the world of Special Edition shoes to better understand what they look like, what characteristics are common and why Special Edition shoes are so sought after.
Why is SE an important term when talking about sneakers?
Using abbreviations and text on shoes and sneakers helps shoppers identify the unique type of shoe they’re buying, which is especially important for those who consider themselves collectors or are serious about shoe and sneaker fashion. So why are SE shoes so important?
Shoemakers, like car manufacturers or even restaurants, want to celebrate certain events, auspicious occasions or significant happenings. Whether it’s the anniversary of the company’s founding, the memory of an important person or an important historical moment, Suutarit designs and produces special edition shoes to celebrate these times.
Special edition shoes are therefore different from normal shoes and are usually single cases, the theme of which does not repeat itself. Their unique design makes them a little different from limited edition (LE) shoes as they have the expected value in the range.
Features of SE shoes
So what sets the SE shoe apart from the rest of the range? Are there any special features that help you identify a special edition other than the markings on the packaging?
- Timing: Special edition shoes are often released on auspicious dates or high-profile events. This could be the holiday season, celebrating a certain sporting victory or celebrity. They are released over time and do not usually appear in the set list.
- Rarity: Unlike the limited edition, the special edition shoes are not permanently limited in number. However, they are made for a specific period of time and will not be on sale indefinitely. This means they are often hard to find, especially for collectors. Special editions from years ago are often sought after by true enthusiasts.
- Price: Because they’re unique and in high demand, Special Edition shoes aren’t usually cheap. They may not be as expensive as limited edition shoes, which are only released in small quantities, but they usually cost a pretty penny. And because many are treated as collectors’ items, they do increase in value with age, and some SE shoes that are ten or two years old come at a significant cost!
- Status: Special Edition shoes are exactly what the name says: special, unique and remarkable. Being rare and quite expensive, it speaks to the idea of status. Those lucky enough to get their hands on such unique releases have the added benefit of being liked, with many enthusiasts reporting their envy on the forums.
- Unique Features: To be unique, SE shoes need to stand out from the rest of the range. And because there’s usually a commemorative theme, motif, or character behind it, special editions are often completely different from anything else on the market. You won’t find anything comparable in the brand range and it is unlikely that competing brands will copy the design.
- Packaging: To make them even more appealing, Special Edition shoes often come with custom packaging to match the theme. Whether it’s a box or a unique container depends on the brand. Many examples of one-of-a-kind packaging are hand-painted boxes, lockable cases, clear objects resembling a spaceship, or the ice cream design of the pint, making them all the more desirable.
- Collaborations: Special Edition shoes are often known for collaborating with celebrities, athletes or other well-known companies. Examples of partnerships include shoe designer Nike developing SE with Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Kanye West and PlayStation.
- Collectability: Special Edition shoes are highly collectible due to a combination of all of the above factors. You’d be hard-pressed to find someone actively wearing SE shoes outdoors without worrying about the impact on the product. Most SE shoes go through life in their original packaging and are showcased for their incredible rarity and looks.
