1587 Sneakers Update | Shark Tank Season 16
Many people see Asian Americans as followers in the sneaker market, even though they shape sneaker culture.
Sam Hyun and Adam King started 1587 Sneakers to change this idea. They make shoes that highlight Asian American history.
Their designs challenge views and focus on quality. Will the sharks support their vision? Here’s an update on 1587 Sneakers and their pitch.
| Shark | Decision |
| Rasahun Williams | Declined to invest in the pitch |
| Kevin O’Leary | Declined to invest in the pitch |
| Lori Greiner | Declined to invest in the pitch |
| Barbara Corcoran | Declined to invest in the pitch |
| Mark Cuban | Declined to invest in the pitch |
1587 Sneakers on Shark Tank
- Founders: Sam Hyun and Adam King
- Company: Sneaker brand
- Offer: $100,000 for 15.87% stake
- Outcome: No investment
- Investors: None
Sam and Adam stepped into Shark Tank with a clear vision—to transform sneaker culture in the Asian American community.
They sought $100,000 for 15.87% equity to fund their manufacturing transition from Italy to Asia.
This shift aimed to reduce costs, scale operations, and explore retail expansion.
About 1587 Sneakers
1587 Sneakers celebrates Asian American pride through unique designs like the Morrow Bay and AP87.
The brand uses high-quality materials, including leather and natural rubber. Initially, they operated under a direct-to-consumer model with manufacturing in Italy.
However, they shifted production to Asia to cut costs while maintaining quality.
Growth and Sales Performance
Although 1587 Sneakers started targeting the Asian American sneaker community, 30% of customers now come from diverse backgrounds.
Buyers can purchase directly from the company’s website and customize their sneakers.
Financially, the shift in production significantly improved their profit margins:
- Italy Manufacturing: Cost per sneaker $110, retail price $288, profit margin 61.81%
- Asia Manufacturing: Cost per sneaker $50, retail price $175, profit margin 71.43%
The company generated $240,000 in sales in ten months and projected $500,000 in revenue for 2024.
Their customer acquisition cost was $45, while the average order value was $ 170.
Sharks’ Reactions
Despite their strong brand and growing sales, 1587 Sneakers failed to secure a deal. Here’s how the sharks responded:
- Lori Greiner opted out first, stating she wasn’t personally interested in sneakers and didn’t find the deal right.
- Kevin O’Leary believed the sneaker market was too competitive and warned against retail expansion, leading him to back out.
- Rashaun Williams, the guest shark, saw too many risks, particularly the lack of traction and community, and chose not to invest.
- Daymond John raised concerns about inventory management and decided against the deal.
- Mark Cuban advised them to focus on direct-to-consumer sales rather than retail but ultimately declined to invest.
What’s Next for 1587 Sneakers?
Sam and Adam left Shark Tank without a deal. However, they continue to build their brand and expand their reach.
Stay tuned for more updates on 1587 Sneakers after their Shark Tank appearance.
1587 Sneakers Shark Tank Update
1587 Sneakers expanded its community and product line after appearing on Shark Tank.
The brand’s Instagram following increased from 7,000 to over 8,000 after the episode aired.
Media and Product Launches
Sam and Adam shared their Shark Tank experience on MSNBC. In response to growing demand, they introduced the Yellow Thread Sneaker series in September 2024.
Product Quality and Pricing
The Yellow Thread Sneaker series, priced at $188, is made in Asia but uses the same premium materials as the AP87s and Morro Bay Golden Panda, which cost $288.
Community Recognition
Weeks before their Shark Tank episode aired in September 2024, the brand received the Community Partnership Appreciation Award from the Asian Corporate & Entrepreneur Leaders.
New Releases and Cultural Influence
In October 2024, the company launched the FAHM Bayan Box Shirt to celebrate Filipino American History Month. Designer Jose Antonio Vargas created the design, drawing inspiration from Filipino culture and Kenkoy comic art.
Future Plans
Co-founder Adam King shared on Instagram the brand’s vision of expanding beyond footwear and apparel. He plans to feature the 1587 Sneakers logo on computers and water bottles to bring Asian culture into mainstream markets.
Stay tuned for more updates on 1587 Sneakers.
