The True Inspirations Behind Your Favorite Sneakers' Names

These are the sneakers whose names you probably didn't know the meaning behind.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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We spend a lot of time scressing over the design of a sneaker. Is it the right colors for the alphet? Is the toebox shaped the way it's supposed to be (or is it from that crappy other factory)? Are the materials "quality"? Or are they the same rat skin leather from the previous eight drops?

As much thought and consideration that goes into the creation and design of each new shoe, so too must the creative team pick a name. The name is arguably more impactful than the shoe. If trends change and the midsole needs to be shaved down a touch, it can be done. If the stitching has to go hyperfuse, it can happen. If the whole internal mechanism of the sneaker, from the sockliner, to the layers of cushioning, to how the elastic holds down the tongue, needs to be switched up, so be it. But the names almost never change once they're chosen. That's why the creative teams reach far and wide for inspiration to find names that will support the ideology and inspiration behind the shoe itself.

Sometimes that results in some really weird names, we've broken down a few of them so you can find out where they're from (and settle a debate about pronunciation).

1. Nike Mowabb

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2. Nike Roshe Run

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3. Nike Huarache

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4. ASICS Kayano

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5. adidas Samoa

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Back in 1977 when the adidas Samoa was originally released, American Samoa had long been an underdog story on the international soccer scene. They’ve only qualified or entered the World Cup for four of their entire 84-year history. In fact, in 2001 they participated in one of the losingest matches in FIFA history, scoring 0 goals against Australia’s 31. But, they’ve never quit.  Although it’s unconfirmed that adidas named one of their most iconic sneakers after the heartstrong team, it’s unlikely they named them after Girl Scout cookies. After all, who wouldn’t want to be associated with a story like this one?

6.

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7. Nike Talaria

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8. Nike Hachi

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9. adidas

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10. Nike Kaishi

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