What begins in subculture rarely stays there.

Sneaker customisation was once dismissed as “destroying the product.” Today, custom sneakers are recognised as wearable art, embraced by global brands and embedded in modern sneaker culture and streetwear.

Mathew Fabris aka Sekure D helped shape that shift.

In this episode, we explore the 20-year evolution of sneaker culture and sneaker customisation, and how custom sneakers moved from backlash to brand recognition. We discuss why artists amplify global brands like Nike and Jordan Brand rather than compete with them, the creative difference between designing 150,000 pairs and crafting a one-of-one commission and how fashion cycles influence authenticity, hype and long-term relevance in the sneaker industry.

We also unpack how to build a recognisable visual language, how to simplify complex artistry into scalable, commercially viable design, how creating a fictional universe can anchor a lifelong body of work. This conversation dives into sneaker art, street culture, creative entrepreneurship, and the tension between artist and designer, exploring what it takes to build longevity in sneaker culture beyond trends and hype cycles.

If you’re interested in sneaker art, custom sneakers, streetwear, fashion industry dynamics, or how subculture becomes industry, this episode is for you.

Follow Sekure D on Instagram: @sekured

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