Kendrick Lamar’s highly anticipated “The Pop Out: Ken and Friends” concert was everything fans hoped for and more. He rocked the stage at the Kia Forum with a solid line-up of A-list rappers like Tyler, the Creator, Roddy Rich, YG, and Dr. Dre. But perhaps what got the internet abuzz, more than anything else, was his unexpected choice of shoes: the OG Nike Shox R4 “White and Comet Red”.

Images via Hypebeast and Nike

This was contentious because the Nike Shox R4 “White and Comet Red” has been historically regarded as a shoe that is…*insert synonym for “not nice” here*. @Son_ImSleep on Twitter said: “Fam Kendrick Lamar has on Nike Shox man, what the [redacted] was Drake even thinking this isn’t a normal human being, I just tried to google where to buy some and my phone restarted.”

Others chimed in on the social media platform. @not_brint said, “When you see me with these on it means I’m feeling hateful.” @Lei_Takanashi made an astute observation saying, “Nike Shox the new Black AF1s”. We have to agree. The Nike Shox R4 in its OG form is now the new shoe that when worn, communicates a message that you’re not to be messed with. Just ask Drake.

Throw on a rendition of the R4 that isn’t the OG, however, and you’re either fashion-forward or in the realm of fashion faux pas. There isn’t an in-between with this silhouette. Kendrick definitely made a statement wearing the “Scuba Blue” Martine Rose x Nike Shox MR4 at the 2023 Grammy Awards, arousing mixed opinions.

Image via Nice Kicks

If you’re game, get yourself a pair of the Nike Shox R4 on the SNKRDUNK App and tag us on Instagram at @snkrdunk using the hashtag #SNKRDUNKme.

In other news, the NOCTA x Nike Air Force 1 “Love You Forever” is back. And with more colors, too. Alternatively, you can also head to the SNKRDUNK App via the banner below and browse the latest and greatest in sneakers, streetwear, and TCG.