Talk about shoe terminology? There are so many terms and abbreviations to define different aspects of shoes. Like the abbr. “SP”, what does it mean?
Sp is a term used for sneakers; it is short for "Special Project" and has unique features. Brands like Nike label their limited edition shoes as "SP" to signify features like creativity, exclusivity, and collaboration with popular athletes, shoe designers, and other brands.
Such qualities make the pair a collectible and in demand, which is why shoes with an SP label are sold at higher prices. Interesting, right? The following blog covers more in detail about what sp means in shoes!
What Does Sp Mean in Shoes?
When you see "SP" on a pair of shoes, it means the shoes are a limited edition release. They have some unique features that make them different from the regular or standard version of that particular shoe model. These "special releases" are made with different colors, materials, or design elements that increase the pair's price.
In other words, brands often manufacture different versions of the same model. Some of these versions are unique, labeled as "sp" for a market where they are sought-after by sneaker freaks and collectors. Because these pairs are rare and greatly desired among customers, it increases their overall appeal.
Unique Features of SP Shoes
Usually, a shoe pair is labeled as SP if it has the following features:
- Unique Color Schemes: SP shoes are made with exclusive color combinations that are not available in the standard version of the shoe. These distinctive color schemes make the shoes stand out among other pairs.
- Premium Materials: Special releases use high-quality materials that go beyond what is used in the regular version. This includes premium leather, special fabrics, or unique textures that enhance the overall look and feel of the shoe.
- Innovative Design Elements: Special project shoes are designed with different patterns, special lacing systems, or other details that showcase their creativity and aesthetic.
- Limited Production: SP shoes are always produced in limited quantities, so they are highly sought-after and desired by customers. The rarity of these shoes makes them exclusive among shoe collectors and enthusiasts.
- Special Branding or Logos: Other than the SP label, some special editions are tagged with unique branding elements or logos that differentiate them from the standard version. Like unique tags or embroidery that highlight the exclusivity of the release.
- Collaborations: SP shoes are often a result of collaborations with artists, designers, or other shoe brands. These collaborations add to the unique aesthetic of the shoe and are largely used to market the pair as well.
- Special Packaging: SP editions come in exclusive packaging, which adds to the overall premium and collectible experience. They are packed in special boxes or dust bags that make them more aesthetic and appealing.
So, if a shoe is labeled as SP, it most likely means it is a limited edition with premium quality and unique features, often designed as a result of collaboration with athletes or designers.
Understanding SP Terminology – A Little History!
The term "SP" in shoes began in the mid-2000s when Nike released the iconic Nike Dunk SB "Hemp" in 2004. Back then, SP for "Special Project" signified something unique and exclusive about a pair of shoes.
In the case of Nike Dunk, the SP referred to the pair’s unique hemp and sail color scheme, leather base, mesh tongues, and Grind Rubber sole. The sneakers were made with premium quality materials that enhanced the overall appeal and exclusivity of the SP version.
Note: The SB in Nike Dunk SB Hemp is short for Nike Skateboarding. It represents the Nike brand's collection of shoes, apparel, and gear designed specifically for skateboarding.
The success of NikeLab played a big role in making SP shoes famous. Since the first SP pair, they have released many editions with innovative designs, premium materials, and sought-after collaborations.
One such example is the popular Nike Free Flyknit Mercurial SP shoes, which are well-known for their unique design and premium craftsmanship.
They are also desired for their durability and stability, thanks to the sock-like fit and a high-integrated ankle cuff. Other features like a waterproof NIKESKIN coating and a larger airbrushed Swoosh round out the design also add to the overall attractiveness of the shoe.
Soon after Nike, brands like Adidas started creating limited-edition shoes with the SP label. And with time, the special project footwear spread across the shoe world. Now, different brands use it to show off their limited releases with unique designs, materials, or partnerships.
Is SP the Same as SE or PE?
Shoe terminology has a long list with many confusing abbreviations like Sp, Se, and Pe. Do they all mean the same?
No, Sp means "special project"; it is used for shoes that are made in limited editions, have high-quality materials, and have unique designs.
On the other hand, SE is short for "special edition." It's like giving a regular shoe a cool upgrade – extra features, unique designs, or special materials that make it stand out from the usual versions. When you see SE on a pair of shoes, it means there's something special about them, making them a bit more unique and eye-catching.
SP (Special Project) and SE (Special Edition) in the shoe world both mean something special, but there's a slight difference. SP usually involves creative collaborations and extra exclusivity, making it a bit more unique than SE.
Now, there is another term PE, short for "player exclusive." Shoes with PE labels hold the VIP status as they are made just for the athletes. Regular customers cannot get access to PE shoes because these pairs are designed with special features to fit for sports. Features like custom cushioning, personalized fit, or technology added for optimizing athletic performance make PE shoes even more exclusive.
Another popular term in the world of shoes is OG, which stands for "Original." It refers to the first release of a particular shoe model. When you see "OG" on a pair of shoes, it means you're looking at the original design that started it all. OG shoes hold a special place in sneaker culture as they show the roots and foundation of a popular footwear style.
OG, SE, and PE --- these three terms come into the Basics of shoe terminology. They are like the ABCs of footwear, helping to understand what's special about each pair and if they're the original, have something extra special, or are made just for athletes.
Moreover, while SE, PE, and SP all share similar characteristics, they have unique features on their own. SP shoes, in particular, are prominent among other labeled footwear because of their emphasis on creative collaborations, fancy materials, and limited editions.
Three Popular Myths About SP in Shoes [& Why They Are Incorrect]
There are many myths associated with the SP label, but they are not true. Here, we are debunking three popular myths people believe about SP in shoes.
Myth 1: SP Means a Technology Added to Shoes
Some people mistakenly believe that "SP" in shoes signifies a specific technology, like advanced cushioning or support systems. In reality, "SP" stands for "Special Project," not technology.
Brands like Nike use it to label limited edition releases which are often created through collaborations with athletes, designers, or other brands. The first SP shoes, Nike Dunk SB "Hemp" from 2004, is an example of this, that SP doesn't mean technology in shoes.
Myth 2: Only Nike Makes SP Shoes
Another misconception is that only Nike produces "SP" shoes. This is, again, untrue. While Nike introduced the term, other shoe brands also used "SP" for their special editions. The key theme here is creativity, innovation, and exclusivity rather than SP shoes with only one brand's special projects.
Myth 3: SP Shoes Are Not Durable
Some wrongly assume that "SP" shoes are purely for fashion and lack athletic performance. But the truth is that many "SP" sneakers, like those from NikeLab, use high-quality materials that give excellent performance. This means "SP" shoes can be both stylish and functional; they're not just for looks but also for performance.
Looking for Stylish Shoes? Check FreakyShoes!
Shoes with SP labels are unique, but if you want to create your own special edition shoes, Freaky Shoes has a way for that!
At Freaky Shoes, you can design your own sneakers and shoes. And this is not at all tricky, even beginners can do it. Just follow these three simple steps:
- All you need is to visit freakyshoes.com and select your favorite pair from their cool collection. They have lots of shoe styles, like low-tops, high-tops, sandals, sneakers, basketball shoes, slides, etc.
- After selecting your preferred style, click on the "Customize Now” button; this will take you to the creative room.
- Once in the creative room, you can design your shoes with different colors, patterns, and themes. Let your creativity flow and make your own unique shoes that are both stylish and durable.
And that’s it! Place your order, and we'll start making your customized shoes.
