Sneaker Essentials
Explore all angles of the sneaker business – from design through sale – with this new online program from FIT, featuring Complex and leaders from across the sneaker world.
Space is limited. get your name on the list
FEATURING CONTRIBUTORS FROM:
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Learn the Business
Get insider access to key areas of the industry with 45+ on-demand video lessons, and build real-world skills through self-paced projects and simulations.
Map Your Career
Learn about all the various career paths in the sneaker world, and get first-hand tips and advice on how to achieve your goals from the biggest names in the business.
Boost Your Cred
Earn a Certificate of Achievement in Sneaker Essentials from the world-renowned FIT to add to your profile.
Instructors and Industry Experts
Joe La Puma
Host of Sneaker Shopping, SVP Content Strategy Complex Media
SARAH MULLINS
Accessories Design Chair FIT
GREGG WOODCOCK
Adjunct Instructor, Accessories Design FIT
Jeron Smith
Chief Marketing Officer, Stephen Curry 30 Inc.
Nick Depaula
Feature writer at ESPN and Creative Director of Nice Kicks
CURRICULUM
The program includes 6 courses. Each course is 4-5 hours, and is broken into several shorter modules that you complete at your own pace. Graduates of the program earn a non-credit Certificate of Achievement from FIT.
Course 1. Introduction to History and Culture
Course 1. Introduction to History and Culture
Explore the history of sneakers – from performance, to fashion, to self-expression – and the evolution of sneaker culture.
Course 2. Design
Course 2. Design
Gain an understanding of design considerations including the design brief, color, materials, parts and lasts, sketching and drafting, tech packs, and prototyping.
Course 3. Manufacturing and Production
Course 3. Manufacturing and Production
Go inside the factory to see how sneakers are made and learn about key steps like pattern making, upper assembly, outsole application, and production.
Course 4. Distribution and Retail
Course 4. Distribution and Retail
Learn about the ways a sneaker gets to market through exploration of trade shows, traditional and non-traditional retail, boutiques, select release dates and drop strategy, and conventions.
Course 5. Brand Strategy & Marketing
Course 5. Brand Strategy & Marketing
Delve into marketing strategy with modules on brand strategy, creating a brand story, marketing tactics, digital apps and web marketing, endorsements, collaborations, and more.
Course 6. Media
Course 6. Media
The experts from Complex lead instruction on sneaker media, social and video strategy, game changers in sneaker media history, and teach you how to create your own media.
