Sneaker Book Interview – Nav Gill & Sanne Poeze | She Kicks

In the dynamic realm of sneaker culture, where innovation meets identity, a groundbreaking narrative is unfolding within the pages of She Kicks. This revolutionary tome, authored by Nav Gill in collaboration with Sanne Poeze, known as @girlonkicks, and published by Studio 96, stands as a beacon dedicated solely to celebrating the indomitable spirit of women in the sneaker space. From industry titans to emerging talents, She Kicks casts a spotlight on the multifaceted contributions of women, presenting a diverse tapestry of stories that resonate with enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

Behind She Kicks: An Exclusive Interview

Nav Gill & Sanne Poeze: Visionaries Steering She Kicks

First and foremost, congratulations on the monumental achievement that is She Kicks! As you prepare to unveil this cultural masterpiece, what excites you the most about bringing this book to the world?

*Thank you! The most thrilling aspect for us is the opportunity to share the captivating narratives of countless exceptional women within the sneaker industry. She Kicks goes beyond the surface, shedding light on the expansive roles these women play in bringing our favorite sneakers to life. It’s a celebration of diversity and a testament to the collective impact of women across various facets of the sneaker world.*

Considering the richness of She Kicks, could you provide insights into the timeline of its creation? How long has this labor of love been in the making?

*The inception of the idea and initial outline for She Kicks occurred approximately four years ago. However, the comprehensive development of this groundbreaking title, in collaboration with our publisher Studio 96, commenced at the close of 2019.*

The Impact of She Kicks on Women in the Sneaker Industry

The publication of She Kicks, a project spearheaded by women for women, is monumental in its own right. Beyond the evident, what aspirations do you hold for the influence of She Kicks within the sneaker community?

*I fervently hope that She Kicks serves as an empowering revelation for women, illustrating that despite numerical imbalances, there is undeniably a space for them within the sneaker industry. Moreover, it emphasizes that the industry thrives on their expertise and unique perspectives, essential for its continual evolution.*

Reflecting on positive strides in representation and inclusivity for women in the modern sneaker space, what, in your opinion, stands out as the most significant change?

*One of the most encouraging developments in the modern sneaker space is the burgeoning community surrounding it. Social media platforms have become hubs for advocates of equality in sneakers, spotlighting female-led products and stories while fostering discussions on inclusive sizing. Witnessing the exponential growth of the women’s sneaker community, both locally and internationally, over the past few years has been truly inspiring.*

Identifying areas for improvement is integral to progress. What aspects do you believe still require attention and enhancement?

*Undoubtedly, product offerings demand attention. There is a pressing need for more inclusive size runs across the board, groundbreaking women’s exclusives, and, notably, performance footwear tailored specifically for female athletes.*

Crafting She Kicks: Balancing Depth and Brevity

The challenge of distilling a vast array of stories into a coherent narrative is undoubtedly daunting. How did you navigate the process of deciding which stories and individuals would find a place in She Kicks, and which ones would regrettably be left out?

*Crafting She Kicks presented one of the most formidable challenges throughout the process. Ideally, the book would have been an endless exploration. To strike a balance, we structured it into sections covering design, collaboration, history, and the future. Surprisingly, the sneaker industry only recently caught up with archiving its products, campaigns, and marketing materials. Consequently, some compelling stories from the past few decades lacked the necessary imagery or information at the quality required for print. However, these stories are securely banked for future endeavors.*

Personal Perspectives: Nav Gill on Sneakers

Shifting to a more personal note, can you share your relationship with sneakers? How have they evolved as more than just footwear throughout your life?

*Sneakers have adorned my feet for as long as memory serves. Initially, for their practicality and comfort, and as the years progressed, they became a canvas for self-expression. There is no other footwear that possesses the unique ability to convey one’s identity and personality to the world. Regardless of the rest of your outfit, sneakers have this magical quality of showcasing a part of who you are.*

Supporting Women in the Sneaker Industry

In advocating for the inclusion of women in the sneaker industry, what are some practical ways individuals and organizations can contribute?

*The most impactful way to support women in the sneaker industry is by fostering equal opportunities at every level. Hire more women, not just as designers, but across all roles within the industry.*

For those eager to embark on their She Kicks journey, how can they secure their own copy from Studio 96 Publishing?

*To immerse yourself in the world of She Kicks, you can secure your copy by visiting Studio 96 Publishing [here](link). This enlightening feature was originally published on December 20, 2022.*

In a world where sneakers transcend their utilitarian roots to become cultural touchstones, She Kicks stands as a testament to the indelible mark women leave on this vibrant realm. Nav Gill and Sanne Poeze, through their visionary work, have not only amplified the voices of women in the sneaker industry but have also laid the groundwork for future generations. As we lace up our sneakers, let us stride into a more inclusive and diverse sneaker world – one where every voice, especially that of She Kicks, resonates loud and clear.

*Note: This article derives inspiration from the insightful interview with Nav Gill and Sanne Poeze, originally featured on Sneaker Freaker on December 20, 2022.*