Local Shop Searches for Enthusiasts of Retro Sneakers and Clothing | Update

## Turning Passion into Profit with Solemates Sneakers and Vintage

### Meet the Treasure Hunters

Dylan and Adam Spencer aren’t your everyday entrepreneurs. They’re the masterminds behind [Solemates Sneakers and Vintage](https://www.oleantimesherald.com/news/local-business-seeks-solemates-in-love-for-vintage-sneakers-apparel/main/preview/site/news/6-businesses-in-4th-laine-business-accelerator-cohort/article_d9b06766-59b7-11ef-8554-1b74da2f9ebe.html). This operation, with a home base in Allegany at 98 W. Main St., thrives in the thrilling world of vintage and collectible sneakers and apparel.

### From High School Hobby to Business

Their adventure began in high school with a few pairs of sneakers. The brothers ventured online, often inspired by their dad—a huge sneaker enthusiast. “What big stars wore, we chased,” Dylan remembers. Over time, what started as a hobby transformed into a full-fledged venture. “For the past three years, we’ve been buying and selling collectibles,” Dylan shares. Their business matured with a storefront dream realized in February.

### A New Yorker’s Pawn Paradise

Solemates echoes the classic New York pawn shop vibe—minus the gritty drama. “Buy, sell, trade; that’s our game,” Dylan says. Want to get rid of those barely-worn Adidas Yeezy Slides? They’ll happily take them off your hands and offer you something else in return. Think of Solemates as a sophisticated cycle of preloved fashion.

### Cracking the Sneaker Code

Navigating the resell market is no walk in Central Park. “Knowing your kicks is crucial,” Dylan insists. Exclusive models such as Nike Dunks aren’t just sought after—they’re bankable. “Margins were thin,” Dylan concedes. Yet, they’ve managed to profit every year since launch. It’s all about spotting treasure in the trade.

### Sneaker Symphony

So what’s making bank at Solemates? “Nike Dunks and Adidas Yeezy Slides top the charts,” Dylan nods. “Consider buying a pre-owned car,” he elaborates. Rather than paying between $150 and $400, pay something less stressful, like $50 to $200. Vintage is both eco-friendly and pocket-friendly.

| Sneakers | Initial Retail Price ($) | Solemates Price ($) |
|———-|————————–|———————|
| Nike Dunks | 150 – 400 | 50 – 200 |
| Adidas Yeezy Slides | 150 – 400 | 50 – 200 |

### The Best of Vintage

Solemates aren’t just peddling sneakers though. They stock up on a curated collection of vintage attire. Exclusive kicks meets iconic vintage wear—think Carhartt jackets, 1990s Nike, old concert tees, and Disney crewnecks.

### A Digital Dapple in NYC

In this digital age, Solemates straddles both realities beautifully. “Platforms like eBay broaden our horizons,” Dylan asserts. Social media? Essential. It drives online traffic and who knows, maybe foot traffic in downtown Allegany, too.

### Support and Growth through Laine Business Accelerator

Their involvement with the 2024 Laine Business Accelerator is about more than growth. It’s a community. “Working with peers who get it? Inspiring,” Dylan nods. This mentorship cycle is precisely what’s fueling their ambitions.

### Dreams and Dedication

Dylan’s musings echo like NYC taxis at rush hour—fast and true. St. Bonaventure shaped his philosophy. His brother’s still wrapping up his studies there. “Find your path and happiness will follow,” Dylan says. It’s as tried-and-true as a vintage band tee—and they’re living proof.

### Conclusion: Trash into Treasure

Ultimately, what Dylan and Adam are crafting is more than a business model; it’s a narrative. It’s about how one person’s discard is another’s discovery. It’s a quintessential New Yorker tale of treasure hunting in the concrete jungle.