When you hear the word “Virtual Sneaker,” what do you think of it?
A virtual sneaker is one of the digital items of virtual fashion built using computer technologies and 3D software. It never exists in the physical world but only exists in a digital space. People can wear it in photographs for social media.
However, the concept and technologies are already pretty common in the digital gaming industry. Many games allow a player to create a digital avatar and make it a preferred look. Now, the fashion industry tries to bring the experience to the real world using new technologies.
Recent trends of the virtual sneaker industry
Interest in virtual fashion has exploded during the COVID-19 pandemic. People explore ways of dressing without going outside and sharing on digital platforms such as social media.
Focusing on the virtual sneaker market, it is booming in North America especially. A virtual fashion brand called rtfkt generated considerable buzz by reporting sales of more than $3.1 million over 7 minutes. Also, a luxury brand, Gucci, released its first digital sneakers at $17.99 this March that went viral. The market is expected to continue to grow in the future, with buyers expanding beyond collectors to gamers and users of VR spaces.
Japan’s first Virtual Sneaker to release at Rarible
1Block, Japan’s first digital fashion brand focused on 3DCG, will release collectible virtual sneakers through the world’s largest NFT (a non-fungible token) marketplace Rarible, on 22nd April 2021.
This virtual sneaker is inspired by universally familiar and iconic silhouettes. Elements of the design, including the rainbow color scheme (a symbol of the importance of diversity), the smoke curling up from the sole, the running textures, and the uplifting style, were inspired by the hippie movement.
The brand offers one-stop production capabilities, including the use of cutting-edge technologies. For example, 3DCG and Blockchain to create digital fashion, develop digital content, and plan digital marketing strategies. Various media and creator collaborations are upcoming.
Product details
Product name: AIR SMOKE 1™
Marketplace: Rarible
Auction start time: Thursday, April 22nd, 2021, 20:00 (JST) *Time and date subject to change
Auction end time: Wednesday, April 28th, 2021, 19:59 (JST) *Time and date subject to change
