Bob's Classic Kicks is one of my favorite stores. Located just outside of the historic downtown Detroit area, Bob's has some of the hottest kicks in the D. Today i had the pleasure of interviewing owner Jason Johnson. The store opened on Halloween in 2005. One of the reasons they choose the area is because it is close to campus (Wayne State University).
Jason wanted to open the store because he believed the D needed a real sneaker shop, not just a commercial shop (like Footlocker). I agree with him, i lived in the D for two years and only saw commercial shops. Good job Jason!! Bob isn't a name of a worker or a memoir to someone. They chose the name to add a vintage edge to it, make it universal and have an Indie sound.
What's your favorite sneaker? Pause.... "Can i only pick one?" The room filled with laughter. That is a question spoken from a true sneaker head. He finally had a toss up with all white Gucci sneakers and O.G. white and red 5s.
The store doesn't currently have a web store, but they plan on getting one. It's not as easy as one thinks though. You can expect new shipments twice a month the 1st and the 15th, "just like your checks." But they do ship shoes! They have an awesome collection for men and women. And it changes as the culture changes. Right now you can find some sweet Blazers and Dunks for the ladies.
It took Jason 8 months to get a Nike Account. His advice to up and coming shops is, have money. If you don't have the right connections you need money to back you up. If you want to open a shop, accept the fact that it will be a long and nerve-racking process.
Bobs Classic Kicks
4717 Woodward Ave
Detroit MI 48201
313.832.7513
Mon-Sat 12pm-7pm
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