image of customer browsing store aisles (for a footwear store)

Our Story

Sneaker Week PDX was born from a vision shared by Herbert Beauclere and Megan Davis, two experienced brand managers with industry-leading resumes. What began as a passion project has evolved into Portland's premier footwear festival, connecting global sneaker culture with the city's thriving footwear industry.

Founded in 2017, Sneaker Week PDX emerged from a simple but powerful insight: the solutions to many of the industry's challenges around culture, diversity, and talent were already present in Portland's vibrant creative community. By building bridges between enthusiasts, aspiring professionals, and established industry leaders, Sneaker Week has become a catalyst for positive change in the footwear world.

Since our inception, we've programmed over 150 events in collaboration with community partners, corporate brands, and small businesses. Each experience is carefully crafted to highlight the diverse perspectives that make up global sneaker culture while showcasing Portland's unique footwear ecosystem.

Our Future

We're building a connected system between public and private institutions that fosters an economically sustainable pipeline for the next generation of footwear professionals and businesses. Through strategic partnerships with leaders across industries—from education to government, corporate to boutique—we're creating innovative solutions that deliver impactful experiences while opening doors for diverse talent. As we look ahead, Sneaker Week PDX remains committed to our founding principles: building community amongst creatives and providing aspiring professionals access to Portland's thriving footwear industry. We invite you to join us in shaping the future of sneaker culture and the industry that surrounds it.
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Purrpose

In a world where access and opportunity have traditionally been limited, Sneaker Week PDX stands as a platform for inclusion. We believe that the future of footwear will be shaped by diverse voices, perspectives, and talents—and we're committed to making that future a reality.
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Mission

We create opportunities for the diverse cultures, identities, and interests of the global sneaker community to connect meaningfully with Portland's footwear ecosystem. By fostering these relationships, we enrich both the community and the industry.
image of customer browsing store aisles (for a footwear store)

Vision

The most innovative solutions emerge when passionate enthusiasts and forward-thinking brands collaborate as equals. Sneaker Week PDX nurtures these connections, creating spaces where authentic conversation and co-creation can thrive.

Who Attends Sneaker Week

From passionate athletes to dedicated collectors that are motivated by the culture of sneakers, each year we host over 10,000 community members through  an average 30 unique event collaborations

Sneaker Enthusiasts

Athletes and collectors who appreciate the artistry, history, and cultural significance of sneakers.

Aspiring Professionals

Students and influencers who are looking to build careers in the footwear industry and seeking connections, education, and inspiration.

Industry Professionals

Employees and directors from established footwear brands who bring their expertise and insights to our events while discovering fresh perspectives and emerging talent.