Rick Owens Vintage Sneakers

Sneakerheads everywhere have been obsessing over the unique styles of Rick Owens vintage sneakers. Known for their futuristic designs and avant-garde aesthetic, Rick Owens sneakers have become cult favorites among fashionistas and streetwear enthusiasts alike.

But with so many options and styles to choose from, how do you know which vintage Rick Owens sneakers are right for you? And where can you find authentic pairs without getting duped by fakes?

In this complete buying guide, I’ll give you an in-depth look at everything you need to know before investing in a pair of these coveted kicks. From how to spot authenticity markers to styling tips, sizing info, price ranges and more – consider this your Rick Owens vintage sneaker bible!

What Makes Rick Owens Vintage Sneakers So Unique

There are several key features that make Rick Owens sneakers stand out from other high-end designer shoes:

Futuristic Silhouette – Many Rick Owens vintage sneakers have an exaggerated, chunky shape with an avant-garde look. This includes thick rubber soles, curved lines and unique geometric details. The iconic “Dunk” style is a great example, with its dramatically raised heel and sleek upper.

High-Quality Materials – From premium leathers and suede to soft nubuck, Rick Owens sneakers utilize luxe, durable materials. Many pairs also incorporate his signature textured rubber outer soles for maximum traction and comfort.

Edgy Aesthetic – With influences from goth, punk and streetwear, Rick Owens sneakers have an edgy, rebellious vibe. Subtle details like exposed zippers, strap accents and unique hardware provide understated luxury.

Limited Production – Each Rick Owens vintage sneaker is produced in limited quantities, ranging from a couple hundred to a few thousand per style. This makes each pair feel special and coveted.

Innovative Craftsmanship – From the stitching and shape to the materials and sole design, Rick Owens sneakers display next-level Italian craftsmanship. They’re made to mold perfectly to your feet.

Celebrity Status – Major A-listers, from Kanye West to Rihanna, have been spotted wearing rare Rick Owens kicks. This gives them an elite, fashion insider appeal.

So in short – the unconventional look, luxurious quality, limited availability and celebrity aura all make Rick Owens vintage sneakers so desirable amongst sneakerheads and fashionistas.

Where To Buy Authentic Rick Owens Vintage Sneakers Online

When buying covetable kicks like Rick Owens, you’ll want to ensure you’re getting the real deal. Here are some reputable sites to browse and buy vintage Rick Owens sneakers online:

Grailed – This resale site is a treasure trove for authentic, pre-owned Rick pieces. Expect to find rare or sold-out sneakers, but be sure to closely inspect photos and descriptions. Use Grailed’s feedback system.

eBay – Search eBay for new and used Rick Owens vintage sneakers, but vet sellers carefully. Review their feedback score, return policies, and look for detailed images to authenticate. Sort by lowest price to find deals.

Farfetch – A reputable luxury retailer, Farfetch offers both new and pre-worn Rick Owens sneakers from verified boutiques worldwide. Their selection is carefully curated.

SSENSE – This Canadian high-fashion retailer stocks Rick’s latest collections and archive pieces, like the iconic Ramones sneaker. Fast shipping and easy returns take the stress out of high-end purchases.

LIVE Stock – LIVE Stock sells 100% authentic Rick sneakers in used condition, fully inspected by their team of experts. The “Worn” section offers heavy discounts.

Stadium Goods – One of the most trusted sellers of authentic sneakers, Stadium Goods offers pristine Rick Owens pairs verified for authenticity. Expect to pay higher prices for deadstock condition.

Racramony – This consignment e-shop sells pre-owned Rick Owens apparel and shoes. All pieces are hand-checked by specialists to weed out fakes.

The key is finding a seller you trust who can guarantee authenticity. Always look for detailed images of the actual shoes you’ll receive and check policies on returns, exchanges, and authentication. Now let’s dive into styling these statement shoes.

How To Style Rick Owens Vintage Sneakers

Known for their polarizing looks, Rick Owens sneakers make a bold fashion statement. But incorporating their avant-garde vibe into wearable outfits can seem intimidating. Here are some tips for styling your Rick Owens vintage kicks:

Contrast with basics – Let the shoes be the standout. Keep the rest of your outfit simple with basic pieces like a white t-shirt, tailored trousers or little black dress.

Monochrome vibes – Stick to a minimal black and white palette up top so the bright or bold sneakers pop even more. Think black jeans and a graphic tee.

Luxe layers – Offset the chunky sneaker silhouette with drapey, luxe layers like an oversized blazer or tapered joggers. This creates an upscale streetstyle look.

Highlight textures – Leather, suede, techy mesh – play with complimentary textures in your top or jacket. Go extra cozy with a Rick Owens knit.

Add accessories – Small Rick Owens bags like the Illuminati clutch or Check Passport case provide the perfect finishing touch. Leave jewelry minimal.

Keep it neutral – For a toned-down take, pair with earth tones, grey hues or all black – letting the sneaker be the color focal point.

Get inspired – Look to Rick’s runway shows, street style stars, and fashion blogs to see how to rock Rick Owens vintage sneakers in edgy, modern outfits tailored just for you.

The most important rule – let your personal style shine through. The right Rick Owens sneakers will instantly elevate any outfit with a high-fashion edge.

Demystifying The Sizing & Fit

The number one question on any sneakerhead’s mind is – how do Rick Owens vintage sneakers fit?

Unfortunately the sizing and fit can vary greatly depending on the specific style. Here’s an overview of what to expect:

True to size – Some styles, like the Dunk and classic Ramones run very true to size. Order your normal US size for the perfect snug fit.

Run large – Certain vintage styles like the Mastodon Pro, **Basketball Hi **and **Tractor **are intentionally oversized. Size down half a size to a full size for the proper roomy shape.

Run small – A few older styles like the **Level Runner **and US Stooges fit smaller, so consider sizing up half a size from your normal.

Narrow fit – Most Rick Owens sneakers fit narrow or snug compared to average athletic shoes. Wider foot shapes may need to size up or break in the shoes.

Ideal fit – Properly sized Rick Owens sneakers will hug your heel securely while leaving a thumb’s width of space at the toe. The exaggerated shape gives a foggy fit.

When in doubt – Try before you buy! Stop into luxury boutiques to get your true Rick Owens sneaker size. Or buy from sites with good return policies in case you need to swap sizes.

Keeping this general guidance in mind will set you up for success. Then you can walk with confidence in your field-tested Rick Owens vintage sneakers.

How Much Should You Budget?

Let’s talk numbers. Vintage Rick Owens sneakers range hugely in price depending on rarity, condition, age and more. Here’s an overview of typical price brackets:

$250 – $800 – This reflects more common Rick Owens styles from the 2000s in used condition. For example, Ramones, Dunks or Tractors from previous seasons.

$800 – $1200 – Mid-tier pricing for newer or more exclusive silhouettes, like Geobaskets or Kiss Heels, especially in sought-after colorways.

$1200 – $2000 – Pricing for the most in-demand vintage Rick Owens sneakers in like-new condition. Think limited edition collabs, one-of-a-kind samples, or pristine deadstock pairs.

$2000+ – Truly grail-status Rick sneakers from the archives demand premium pricing of $2000 to $4000+. This includes decades-old first releases or celeb-worn pairs.

The bottom line – Expect to invest $500 to $1000+ for most authentic Rick Owens vintage sneakers. But you can score steals under $500 for used pairs if you hunt for deals and aren’t picky about color or wear.

Like any coveted vintage designer item, condition greatly impacts value. Check for signs of heavy wear before paying top dollar. With proper care, your Rick sneakers will hold value and last for years to come.

Choosing The Right Materials

Rick Owens utilizes a range of high-end materials to construct his signature sneakers. Here’s an overview of what to expect:

• Premium leather – Buttery soft and durable, matte and patent leathers are common in Rick Owens sneakers. They mold to your feet with wear.
• Suede and nubuck – Offering soft texture and supple structure, suede appears on many vintage Rick Owens styles. It requires gentle care.
• Textured rubber – The bumpy rubber outer soles are a Rick Owens sneaker staple. This innovative textured material provides optimal traction and a distinctive look.
• Technical mesh – Lightweight mesh with a faint sheen amps up the technical vibe on select styles. It allows for breathability.
• Embossed leather – Intricate embossing and perforation details bring visual interest to certain designs, while remaining durable.
• Raw edges – Many Rick Owens sneakers feature unfinished edges and visible seam-work as a nod to his deconstructed vibe.

Consider how you’ll wear your vintage Rick Owens sneakers. Luxe leather pairs the best for frequent wear, while suede has a more delicate appeal. The options ensure there’s a material perfect for every personal style.

How They Fit Compared To Other Designer Sneakers

Wondering how Rick Owens sneakers fit and feel compared to other popular luxe kicks? Here’s the lowdown:

Acne Studios – The Swedish label also produces narrow, snug-fitting sneakers, so sizing is similar. But Rick Owens has more dramatic shapes.

Common Projects – These minimalist sneakers have a general true-to-size fit. Rick Owens runs smaller and tighter in most vintage styles.

Golden Goose – Both labels offer chunky, foggy sneakers. But vintage Rick Owens styles fit tighter overall in the heel and toe box.

Balenciaga – Known for oversized shapes, Balenciaga sneakers fit looser than Rick’s precise mold-to-your-foot vintage styles.

Maison Margiela – Margiela’sReplica retro-sport designs have a comparable avant-garde vibe but run wider through the toe box.

Lanvin – Compared to Lanvin’s street-inspired sneakers, Rick Owens offers a narrower heel and more dramatic curvature.

While subtle differences exist across brands, one thing is constant – Rick Owens vintage sneakers provide a truly distinct look and feel unmatched by other luxury labels.

Hunting For Rare Discounts

Now for the fun part – scoring Rick Owens vintage sneakers for under retail. Here are the best tips for finding deals and discounts:

• Shop pre-owned – Previously worn pairs on sites like Grailed or eBay can slash 50% or more off original prices. Just ensure they’re authentic and in good shape.
• Checkout sales – Rick Owens rarely discounts new stock, but you can find markdowns during seasonal sales at Ssense and Farfetch. Sign up for notifications.
• Search for samples – Samples and prototypes pop up on resale sites for under market value since they’re not full retail runs. But move fast – these extra rare pairs go quickly!
• Consider consignment – Visit local high-end consignment shops to browse discounted goods in person. You may stumble upon gems.
• Time it right – New Rick Owens sneaker releases usually sell out instantly for full price. But demand dips over time, bringing secondary market prices down.
• Be open to imperfections – Pairs with minor flaws like scuffs or uneven distressing can dip up to 40% lower than pristine deadstock.
• Follow sellers – Enable notifications from coveted sellers on Grailed and eBay to snap up new listings in real time before they get swarmed.

Scoring authentic Rick Owens sneakers for under retail takes persistence and perfect timing. But with these tips, you can get lucky and land a pair of grail-status kicks. Happy deal hunting!

The Colors To Look For

Rick Owens has released his vintage sneaker designs in a vast array of colors over the decades. While availability varies wildly, here are some of the most iconic Rick Owens sneaker colorways to look out for:

Black – The classic black Rick Owens sneaker provides an edgy staple. Black colorways exist for nearly every vintage style.

White – Crisp white truly allows the sneaker designs to stand out. This high-contrast colorway has a graphic pop.

Milk – Rick’s signature milk white hue has a creamy, warm undertone that pairs with anything. It’s common on Dunks and Ramones.

Pale Pink – Feminine pale pink shifts the vibe for a soft touch. Seek out dusty pink and blush tones.

Bubblegum – Vibrant candy-colored bubblegum pink makes old and new Rick models pop playfully.

Blood Red – This deep crimson red offers a sinister edge. Especially striking on patent leather.

Army Green – Earthy army and sage greens provide subtle neutral contrast on vintage sneaker silhouettes.

Blue – From navy to light blue, this color amps up the visual interest. Electric blue makes a statement.

Metallics – Iridescent silver, gunmetal and gold metallics kick things up a notch with high-shine flair.

When it comes to Rick Owens sneakers, condition and fit should take priority over chasing a certain colorway. But the endless options make collecting fun!

Caring For Your Kicks

To keep your vintage Rick Owens sneakers looking fresh, follow these care tips:

• Protect suede – Use suede protector spray to prevent stains and damage on nubuck or suede pairs. Re-apply every few months.
• Wipe leather clean – Gently wipe leather sneakers with a soft damp cloth and mild soap to lift dirt. Avoid submerging in water.
• Use shoe trees – Inserting cedar shoe trees after wearing helps retain the shape and absorb moisture.
• Brush often – Give suede or nubuck pairs a gentle brush weekly to revive the nap and prevent grime buildup.
• Spot clean – Dab away stains on leather or rubber soles carefully using a mild solution of soap and water. Don’t rub.
• Store properly – Keep Rick Owens sneakers in the box with shoe trees when not wearing. Avoid direct sunlight and humidity.
• Get pro cleanings – For deep cleaning, Manhattan vintage shops offer specialist sneaker cleaning for ~$50 to refresh overly worn pairs.

With the right care, your cherished Rick Owens vintage sneakers can look timeless for decades. Handle with love and they’ll develop an enviable worn-in patina over time.

Returns, Exchanges & Other Fine Print

What’s the fine print when buying coveted vintage Rick Owens sneakers? Here are the key return, exchange and warranty policies to know:

• Returns – Most online shops allow returns within 7 to 14 days in new condition. Pre-owned items may have more restrictive policies, so know the rules upfront.
• Exchanges – Exchanging for a new size generally follows the same timeframe as returns if the shoes are unworn. Move quickly before you wear them to avoidInsertToc
• Manufacturer defects – Issues like poorly done stitching or sole separation are normally covered within the first 1 to 2 years after production.
• Wear and tear – General wear from use isn’t covered, so inspect pre-owned pairs very closely before purchasing. No reimbursements for scuffs.
• Country-specific policies – Fine print varies for international sellers, so confirm you’re clear on return shipping costs and timeframes based on location.
• Proof of purchase – Keep your receipt, order information or authentication card to prove date and place of purchase when making a warranty claim.
• Restocking fees – Some boutiques charge 10-15% restocking fees for returns. Online shops normally allow free returns within the policy window.

Understanding the policies upfront gives you peace of mind with your high-dollar Rick Owens sneaker investment. Reach out in advance with sellers if you have any uncertainties.

Reviews From Real Rick Owens Sneaker Owners

Okay, enough talk from me – let’s hear straight from those who’ve walked many miles in Rick Owens vintage sneakers.

These authentic reviews showcase the good, the bad and the (mostly) amazing when it comes to real-world feedback:

“Pure art for your feet – 5 stars. I’ll never tire of looking down at my Dunks. Worth every penny for the craftsmanship and comfort.”

“I get asked about them constantly – 4 stars. Be ready to answer questions from strangers! They draw lots of attention. My only complaint is keeping the white leather clean.”

“Not the comfiest at first – 3 stars. Every Rick Owens sneaker seems to pinch my pinky toe until it’s fully broken in. But after a few weeks of adjusting they’re perfect.”

“My grail pair – easy 5 stars! These are my grails for life – I’ve bought them 3x times now since I wear holes in the soles from overuse! Nothing beats the look and feel.”

Knowing real-world pros and cons straight from owners helps set expectations. But overall, the vast majority of reviews reflect pure shoelove.

The Inception Of Rick Owens Sneakers

Let’s step into the time machine and learn the origins of Rick Owens’ sneaker empire.

Born in 1962, Rick Owens got his start in fashion by dropping out of Otis College of Art and Design in 1990 to begin his own clothing line, Rick Owens. Based out of Los Angeles, he quickly gained a cult following for his grungy, monochrome, draped basics.

By 2002, after over a decade in the biz, Owens debuted his first-ever sneaker design – the Ramones. Named after the punk rock band (without permission), this low-top sneaker embodied his trademark sleek, gothic vibe.

Next up in 2007, Owens opened his first flagship boutique in Tokyo and launched his now-iconic Geobasket sneaker. With its exaggerated shape, leather paneling and foam sole, the Geobasket translated his avant-garde vision into footwear form.

After ramping up distribution worldwide throughout the 2010s, Owens continues to push boundaries in the 2020s with fresh footwear concoctions like the futuristic Creeper.

When asked about his design ethos, Owens says:

“When a silhouette first comes out, it seems ugly, and that’s sort of great – I prefer to work on an unconscious level.”

So in summary, over 3 decades Rick Owens has pioneered his own lane in footwear by always staying ahead of the curve and defying convention. Vintage sneakerheads today continue to clamor for his early inventions.

Ensuring Your Pair Is 100% Authentic

With so many covetable Rick Owens sneakers being resold, how do you confirm your vintage pair is genuinely authentic?

Here are the most important areas to inspect:

• Shape – Proportions should exactly match the style, from toe box to heel height. No irregularities.
• Stitching – Clean, straight, even stitching. No loose threads, uneven spacing or poor quality.
• Materials – Premium leather, nubuck or rubber. No cheap feeling or looking materials.
• Soles – Check for cleanly attached soles and the “Rick Owens” embossing on bottom.
• Logos – Clean stamped logos on outsole and tongue or side panel. Crunchy, fuzzy logos are a red flag.
• Packaging – Should include Rick Owens shoe bags, box, tissue paper, dust bags for laces and footbeds.
• Seller reputation – Only buy from trusted sellers with solid feedback scores to minimize risk.
• Price – Extremely discounted pricing may signal counterfeits. Price should align with market rate.

Taking a close look helps avoid spending a fortune on sophisticated fakes. When buying pre-owned, don’t rush – inspect every angle carefully.

Try Them On In Stores

While finding rare Rick Owens grails often requires the hunt online, trying before you buy is invaluable. This allows you to nail down your ideal size and experience how silhouettes fit your foot.

Here are some top retailers carrying Rick Owens sneakers you can try on in person:

• Rick Owens flagship boutiques – Found in cities like New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Tokyo and Hong Kong. Offering the widest selection direct from the source.
• Barneys New York – This upscale department store carries current and past season Rick Owens sneakers in limited distribution. Find them at the Madison Ave and Downtown NYC locations.
• American Rag Cie – With affordable designer goods, this LA-based shop has a solid Rick Owens selection including footwear to try on.
• Maxfield LA – The famed LA retailer stocks rare vintage Rick Owens alongside his latest seasonal releases. Appointments are required.
• The Webster – Hit up The Webster’s Miami and NYC boutiques to browse covetable Rick styles.
• Nepenthes – Check Nepenthes’ NYC and Chicago outposts for a well curated mix of Rick’s greatest sneaker hits.

Getting the in-person experience with Rick’s innovative designs and proportions is invaluable before investing in your holy grail pair.

Spotted On Celebs

Part of the appeal of Rick Owens sneakers is their insider cred. His shoes are a fixture on the feet of fashion industry heavyweights and A-list celebs.

Kanye West frequently steps out in rare Rick Owens kicks, especially the abstract Island Dunk and managing to make even the chunkiest pairs look cool.

ASAP Rocky mixes Rick sneakers like the futuristic Kiss Heel boot with his experimental street style.

Rihanna has shown love for Rick’s sneakers for over a decade, wearing everything from the classic leather Ramone to bold color-blocked geometric styles.

Bella Hadid often styles her edgy off-duty looks with Owens’ sneakers, favoring sleek all-white pairs.

Pete Davidson makes a case for men rocking Rick’s heels by sporting the oversized Tecuatl style.

Gigi Hadid proves the versatility of Rick’s sneakers, seamlessly incorporating them into her model off-duty wardrobe.

Travis Scott reignited demand for old school Rick Dunks by rocking a covetable brown croc-embossed leather pair.

Seeing how fashion tastemakers style Rick Owens sneakers on the streets provides endless outfit inspiration. Let the celebs lead the way!

How To Spot Fakes

With so many stellar vintage Rick Owens sneakers circulating the secondary market, fakes unfortunately abound as well.

Here are some dead giveaways you may be dealing with a counterfeit pair:

• Misspelled branding anywhere on the sneaker
• Cheap, stiff leather that feels and smells synthetic
• Uneven toe box and heel shapes that appear warped
• Messy stitching with loose threads everywhere
• Lacking the signature branded footbed insole
• Wrong font used for branding throughout sneaker
• Matte hardware instead of shiny metal used for eyelets
• Outsole missing proper RICK OWENS embossing

While high-quality fakes do exist, a sharp eye can normally spot inaccuracies. When doubts arise, seek a professional authentication service to avoid getting scammed.

Only buy from sellers who guarantee 100% authenticity and have a strong reputation. Paying current market price reflects the shoe’s value – so ultra-cheap pairs are a red flag. Trust your gut, and you’ll snag the real deal.

The Latest Rick Owens Sneaker Collections

Though vintage Rick Owens sneakers may be your holy grail, it’s always fun to admire his latest boundary-pushing creations each season.

Here’s a glance at some recent head-turning sneaker collections:

Spring 2022 – Ultra-chunky mid-calf Kiss Boot sneakers in vibrant pinks and lime green electrified the runway, along with sporty lace-up Gimpel styles.

Fall 2022 – The Creeper with exaggerated toe and towering platform appeared in textured black leather next to patent Dunks.

Spring 2023 – Outrageously tall black Tecuatl sneakers dominated, paired with morbid glam apparel.

Fall 2023 – Thigh-high Basketball sneaker boots shocked alongside colorful Frankenstein platform styles contrasting hand-painted details.

As usual, reviewers call the extreme footwear everything from “ghastly” to “visionary.” No matter your take, there’s no denying Rick Owens always provides a jolt with his ever-evolving creations.

How Other Designer Sneakers Compare

Let’s see how Rick Owens stacks up against other coveted designer sneakers brands:

Versace – Both offer bold designs, but Versace has more high-shine glam styles while Rick Owens leans dark, distressed and gothy.

Gucci – With intricate embroidery and patterns, Gucci provides more overt branding. Rick Owens takes a quietly luxurious, avant-garde approach by contrast.

Maison Margiela – Maison Margiela creates conceptual, deconstructed styles akin to Rick, but with less polarizing silhouettes.

Balenciaga – While both labels do chunky shapes and mixed materials, Balenciaga sneakers skew more athleisure-tech compared to Rick’s punk perspective.

Givenchy – Givenchy has a smoother, traditional high-fashion vibe that’s the inverse of Rick’s rough, boundary-pushing looks.

Saint Laurent – Sleek leather and rock n’ roll details define Saint Laurent sneakers. Rick Owens offers a more Braveheart into battle aesthetic.

At the end of the day, no other sneakers provide that distinct, head-turning Rick Owens flare. Once you go Rick, you never go back!

Perfect Outfit Combinations

Wondering what to wear with your rare Rick Owens vintage sneakers? Here are some chic outfit ideas:

All black – For an easy go-to option, pair Rick Owens sneakers with black jeans or leggings and a black leather jacket or long black coat. Add a graphic tee or silky cami underneath for texture.

Tonal neutrals – Combine Rick sneakers with tonal earth tones like beige trousers, a tan trench coat and cream knit top for an organic yet polished vibe.

Monochrome – Go bold by color blocking head-to-toe in one vibrant hue like tomato red. Try a red dress, shoes and handbag together.

Menswear motive – Channel Rick’s signature oversized aesthetic with an extra baggy button-down shirt, cuffed at the sleeves, and loose trousers. Sneakers ground the volume.

Futuristic vibes – For an edgy cyberpunk feel, pair sneakers with a faux leather moto jacket, mini skirt and mesh top. Accessorize with a baseball cap.

Glam goth – Contrast an ultra-femme look like a satin slip skirt and lace bustier top with chunky sneakers. Throw on a distressed denim jacket for balance.

However you style them, Rick Owens vintage sneakers instantly elevate basic outfits. Have fun mixing luxe, grunge, preppy or futuristic pieces for a modern vibe.

The Final Takeaway

What better way to end this definitive guide than recapping the key pointers on buying Rick Owens vintage sneakers:

• Authenticity is key – Only buy from reputable sellers and inspect closely to avoid fakes.
• Fit tightly – The narrow fit means most styles size small. Try them on first or buy from sites with easy returns.
• Expect to pay – Plan to invest $500 – $1000+ for most vintage Rick Owens sneakers in good condition.
• Keep them clean – Follow proper care for leather and suede to get the longevity these deserve.
• Make them pop – Style with basics and don’t be afraid to display these works of art as the focal point.
• Join the club – Wearing Rick sneakers lets you tap into their insider appeal amongst fashion fanatics.

So if you’re seeking the ultimate street cred amongst sneakerheads, now you have all the tips to land authentic grails and rock Rick Owens’ designs with confidence.

Happy vintage Rick Owens sneaker hunting! The journey for the perfect pair awaits…