In the 90s, every kid — and even some grown ups — wanted a pair of LA Gear Lights sneakers. The light-up sneakers were first released in 1992 and had the most successful kids’ sneaker launch in history, selling 100 million pairs. What made these sneakers so popular with kids was the LED lights in the heel that would blink when your feet touched the ground. LA Gear had a whole range of light-up casual sneakers as well as a line of light-up running and basketball sneakers. LA Gear also came out with a line of sneakers called Sunblossoms that were designed by Paula Abdul. Sunblossoms were pink and white, and flowers could be seen on them only in direct sunlight.
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Some of the athletes and celebrities that advertised LA Gear sneakers back in the day were Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Paula Abdul, and Michael Jackson. Athletes such as Karl Malone and Joe Montana were also known for wearing LA Gear sneakers, but the popularity of the shoes began to wane as the 90s went on. In 1995 they made a low cost sneaker specifically for Wal-Mart stores, however, the venture was not successful. LAGear ended up filling for chapter 11 bankruptcy in 1998.
Not only was the release of LA Gear Lights historic, it lead to other trends in shoes like Heelys (in-line skating sneakers) and platform sneakers.
In 2009, LA Gear made a return and released a new line of Lights sneakers for children and adults. Since their re-branding, LA Gear now focuses on making light-weight running and basketball sneakers. But if you want a pair of the old school light up sneakers, they still sell them on their website. At a $100, they maybe more expensive then your original pair from way back in the day, but the sense of nostalgia you’ll have when wearing them will be priceless!
Check out this throwback commercial for the infamous light-up sneaks:
Did you own LA Gear Lights sneakers back in the day?
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These are sickity sick! I never owned any but I do have a pair of hot pink Puma wedge sneakers that I’ve been rocking lately 🙂