These are just running shoes. This is not a joke post. I’m trying to start a conversation. I’ve heard a lot of discussion on the subreddit about what cyberpunk is and isn’t. The format usually goes like this:
1) Hey guys! I found something cyberpunk (accompanied by something that fits the aesthetic)
2) Commenters complaining about people misunderstanding the point of cyberpunk.
I feel like the aesthetic is just as important as the thematic part of cyberpunk and people are overreacting to the people who enjoy the aesthetic.
Clarification: This is not meant as a defense of things that carry cyberpunk references and branding of games and movies without fitting the aesthetic at all.
2 Comments
Grade A comedy my dude. Except you forgot to mention the latest 2023 Vaporfly Nike Shoes by Adidas
Personally I’m trying to figure out how to make my Trashcan IOT. Personall[y](https://twitter.com/neilhimself/status/1728144413371539485) I think that every trashcan in the world needs to be connected to the Internet at all times. This isn’t a joke but trashcans are the literal future of cyberpunk. I can’t entirely explain why that is but I’m looking forward to a green trashcan revolution. Maybe if we stick a few leds and a plasma screen TV the cyberpunk will be everywhere in our future.
You might be onto something.
One of the oldest, and sometimes overlooked aspects of cyberpunk is the idea that “the street finds its own use for things”.
Here are some sneaker related items.
* In the ’90s, there were several very hyped instances of people being mugged and murdered for their sneakers. Cyberpunk often dwells upon the notion that life is cheap, and your life can’t get much cheaper than a pair of (used) sneakers.
* A store of value and investment. Who would have imagined that a limited edition of a particular sneaker could sell for several thousand dollars? It’s now plausible that black and grey market transactions could be conducted with shoes.
* A vehicle for technology. If somebody is willing to produce a Bluetooth equipped tampon, who knows what madness can be added to somebody’s shoes. GPS trackers, health monitors, concealed weaponry. We’re on our way to making flashing LEDs look quaint