Sneaker Terminology 101: From GRs to Hype Explained | OCC KICKS LTD
👟 Breaking Down Sneaker Terminology: From GRs to Hype
Learn the Lingo of the Sneaker Game | OCC KICKS LTD
If you’ve ever tried getting into sneakers and felt overwhelmed by all the abbreviations and insider terms — you’re not alone. From “GRs” to “deadstock” to “SNKRS L,” the sneaker world has its own language.
At OCC KICKS LTD, we’re not just here to sell you the heat — we’re here to help you understand it. Whether you’re a new collector or a longtime sneakerhead, this glossary will have you speaking fluent sneaker in no time.
🔤 Sneaker Terms You Should Know
🟢 GR (General Release)
GR stands for General Release. These are sneakers that drop in large quantities and are easier to cop. Think of them as the opposite of limited or exclusive drops.
Example: “Those Jordan 1s were a GR, so most stores had them.”
🔥 Hype / Hypebeast
Hype refers to sneakers with massive demand, often due to limited availability, celebrity co-signs, or big-name collabs. A hypebeast is someone who only buys shoes for the clout.
Example: “That Travis Scott collab? Straight hype.”
🧼 DS (Deadstock)
DS means the sneaker is brand new, never worn, and still in original packaging. A crucial term for resellers and collectors.
Example: “I’ve got those Yeezys DS — never even tried them on.”
🧠 OG
OG refers to the original version or colorway of a sneaker when it first released. It can also mean the first edition retro.
Example: “Those Black Cement 3s are the OG 1988 release.”
🧪 Colorway
This simply refers to the color combination of a sneaker.
Example: “That UNC colorway on the Dunks is clean.”
🛍️ SNKRS L / SNKRS W
Refers to wins or losses on Nike’s SNKRS app. Most people catch more Ls (losses) than Ws (wins) — especially on hyped drops.
Example: “Tried to get the Off-Whites but took another SNKRS L.”
💸 Resell / Resale Value
Resell is the aftermarket price of a sneaker, often higher than retail due to demand. Resale value refers to how well a sneaker holds or increases in price.
Example: “The resell on those Jordan 4s is crazy right now.”
🧊 Icy / Yellowing
Icy refers to clear or translucent soles that are still fresh-looking. Yellowing happens when soles oxidize over time — especially with age or poor storage.
Example: “Gotta keep those soles icy with proper storage.”
📦 Brick
When a sneaker flops on release and has no resale value, it’s a brick.
Example: “Everyone thought those 6s would resell, but they bricked.”
👟 Talk the Talk — Then Walk It
Understanding sneaker lingo helps you shop smarter, avoid fakes, and connect better with the community. At OCC KICKS LTD, we believe in educating our customers — whether you’re chasing hype or just want to rock clean pairs.
Explore our collection of authentic, limited-edition sneakers, and shop with confidence now that you’re fluent in sneaker.
🧠 Pro Tip:
Bookmark this blog or share it with a friend who keeps asking, “What’s DS mean again?”
🔗 Shop Now:
🛒 Visit OCC KICKS LTD for our latest drops and restocks.
📲 Follow @occkicks_ on Instagram & TikTok for daily updates, raffles, and sneaker tips.
Written by Finley Ludlow
