The Downtown Kenosha Magazine sits down for a fitting with sneakerhead and owner of Shoe Soldier Headquarters (5507 Sixth Ave.) owner Tommy Gianaks
Tell us about Shoe Soldiers/Headquarters?
Shoe Soldier was created as a Facebook group for people trying to get the latest and greatest sneakers in the community where you can buy/sell/trade with locals. Headquarters has been open 1 year to date November 1st for all the Shoe Soldiers to have a safe place to do meet-ups sell their shoes or trade them for to whatever we have to offer. We check out all our items to make sure they are 100% Authentic.
What’s your top three sneakers in your personal collection?
Jordan 11 Concords, Nike Air Mags, Jordan Eminem 2s.
What is the most expensive pair of shoes you’ve see and sold?
Nike Sb Freddy Kruger
Are the Air Jordans the best shoe ever?It’s definitely one of the best parts of history but not necessarily the comfiest.
How did you come up with your businesses name?
I was thinking what makes a person do so much for shoes. They put in mad time and effort for a chance to get that victory and they will do what it takes from traveling far, filling out raffle tickets, camping outside, etc.. The only thing that i could think of is that we are SHOE SOLDIERS – all in the field, just trying to get that victory shoe and the feeling is unbeatable when you get it.
Headquarters is more than just shoes, what else do you carry?
We carry clothing such as Bape Supreme Vlone our HQ AND Shoesoldier brands
What has been your biggest challenge you’ve faced running your business?
Everyday is a new challenge there is never enough challenges
Why did you choose Downtown Kenosha for your store front?
It was one of the only areas in Kenosha that believed in what I was trying to do. I’ve tried many places but none understood what i was trying to do.
Describe headquarters in three words?
Influence, dedicated, and authentic.
What advice would you give someone that was looking to get into the high end sneaker business?
Save your money and shoes inventory is key – you can’t sell dreams.
What can people expect when they walk into Headquarters for the first time?Great vibes and good times meeting and greeting.
Do you have a working relationship with Root City in Racine?
Yes they are great people and one owner did our logos would highly recommend them if your into vintage and other streetwear.
What or who inspired you to getting into collecting sneakers and then to start your business?
I have always been into fashion, but never really kept most of my stuff. I always gave it away. My cousin Aaron used to take my old stuff to school and sell it to his friends. Then one day we bought some shoes and sold them and made a little profit and it went from there.
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
My mom passed away when I was 26 and the Jordan 11 concord came out that year. I remember getting them from her when I was 11 years old and it was a shoe she bought me as a child. I have since seen the demand when I was looking for my personal pair then tried to get the next release and sold them for a nice profit and it escalated from there 10 years later we have HEADQUARTERS.
What’s next for Headquarters and where do you see your business in 5 years?
Chicago/Indiana/Detroit/Atlanta
Shoe Soldier Headquarters is located at 5507 Sixth Avenue
Open Mon.-Sat. Noon-8pm & Sun.Noon-5pm
See more at shoesoldier262.com
Follow them on Facebook HERE and Instagram HERE
Q&A and photos by Donny Stancato
Edited by Jason Hedman
Follow the Downtown Kenosha Magazine on Facebook & Instagram
(This Q&A first appeared in the Downtown Kenosha Magazine Vol.14 #3 2021)
