Customized sneakers have made a comeback, but they are far from the doodles and song lyrics you may have scribbled on a pair of shoes back in the day. Revamping sneakers with a personal touch has become a popular creative outlet for many artists and a sought-after aesthetic for fashion lovers alike. From bootleg designer prints to deconstruction of the shoe itself, the rage for custom sneakers has taken social media platforms and the fashion industry by storm.
Gaining popularity for his one-of-a-kind designs, Keagan Hoffman is the creative pioneer behind a unique type of customized shoe. Personalized Nike Air Force 1’s have become a leading trend in the streetwear community, but Keagan’s pieces have left an imprint that is unmatched by any other designer. Most known for his Chain Force 0’s, his creations radiate the essence of the modern goth/emo aesthetic while incorporating a street-style flair. Keagan mainly customizes black AF1’s with red decals — but it doesn’t stop there. Embellished with safety pins, laced with chains, and fastened with metal trinkets, these shoes are turning heads over their distinctive style.
With rappers like Playboi Carti and Thouxanbanfauni rocking these kicks, Keagan Hoffman’s work has become an influential presence within the underground fashion scene. We had the chance to speak with him about the creative process behind his work, and what we can expect to see from him in the future.
Hoffman’s Chain Force 0’s
How old are you?
I’m 18 right now.
Where are you from?
I was born in Tokyo but now I live in LA, since I am half American.
Were you always inclined towards the fashion industry?
I was more interested in the graphic design industry, but when I was 15 I started getting interested in fashion.
When did you start customizing shoes and why?
I started last year in September, and to be honest, I don’t remember why. I saw some nice chains during a time I was in Japan, and it inspired me to want to lace up my Converse.
How would you describe your pieces?
Most of the time, my pieces are oriented around my emotions. The Chain Forces have “1999” and “????” on the back tabs, meaning 1999-????. The left “1999” shoe has a cross pendant, which signifies the year I was born. The right “????” shoe has a reaper pendant, since I can’t predict when I will die. The shoes are also black and red since those are my favorite colors, and it shows a lot of dark feelings. It also looks great with the chains!
Hoffman’s Devil Chain Force 0’s
Where do you find inspiration?
I find my inspiration in my emotions and old look books – sometimes runways. Also, movies and history.
What is your favorite part of the creative process behind your work?
I just love to create things and see how it looks in the end, and get people to react to it — whether positively or negatively.
A few of you pieces have been seen on artists like Playboi Carti and Thouxanbanfauni. Who would you love to see wearing your products next?
I would love to see Lil Uzi Vert, Post Malone, and Yung Lean wearing my next designs.
Playboi Carti (right) in Chain Force 0’s
Other than fashion, what other mediums of creativity do you use frequently?
I do graphic design a lot. I made Thouxanbanfauni’s recent album cover and I’ve also worked with many other artists. I have a portfolio where I add my cover arts to.
What advice do you have for other creators?
Stay creative and try to find a way to stay motivated so you can reach your goals.
What do you have in store for the future of your designs?
I’m going to be releasing hoodies, jackets, boots, coats, and more shoes for my future designs. To be honest, I’m also going to make a lookbook.
