Assuming you're a sneakerhead, you should know all about exclusivity (or lack thereof) when it comes to sneakers. With fans and collectors alike, it can also cause a frenzy, as retro versions of popular shoes and limited edition releases. However, another aspect of exclusivity in the sneaker world that often goes overlooked is PE sneakers or player exclusives.

PE sneakers are unique versions of existing shoe models that are primarily designed for professional players or athletes. They are often created to match a team's colour scheme, but there's much more to know about these exclusive shoes. In this article, we'll explore what PE means in shoes, who wears them best, and whether they really make a difference on the court.

So What Does PE Mean In Shoes?

If you are a basketball or sneaker fan, you’ve probably heard of what you call “PE” shoes. PE stands for Player Exclusive, and these are shoes that are made and produced strictly for a single baller. Given that these shoes are not meant to be sold to the public, they're quite coveted among collectors and enthusiasts.

PE shoes have been around for practically forever, and some of the biggest names in basketball have worn them. Julius Irving played in Converse Pro Leather shoes that had higher tops than the company's other models in stores. The Splash brothers, Clyde Drexler and James Worthy wore ROOS at the Slam Dunk Contest in 1987 with the PE sneakers.

In today’s NBA, many players have their own PE shoes, which the shoe manufacturers use on the court. Many of the most popular PE sneakers in 2021 include those worn by P.J. Tucker (Nike Kobe 5 Protro PE), Zion Williamson (Air Jordan 35 ‘Voodoo PE’), and Carmelo Anthony (Air Jordan 35 ‘Carmerlot PE’).

PE shoes are not only limited to basketball players. Athletes from other sports, such as paralympic sprinter April Holmes and baseball player Derek Jeter, have also worn their own PE shoes.

Moreover, many celebrities have their own Player Exclusives. Mark Wahlberg owns Wahlburgers Jordan Formula 23 PE sneakers, while R&B singer Anthony Hamilton has a pair of Air Jordan 9s PEs coming with chocolate brown leather.

Collectors and enthusiasts want PE shoes because they are so exclusive. All being good things, they’re not released to the mainstream, making them a great value product. If you’re lucky enough to have hands on a pair of PE’s, you know you’ve got a very special sneaker piece of history.

So, Who Wears PE Sneakers Best?

When it comes to the world of Player Exclusive sneakers, the king of former times was none other than Ray Allen. The former NBA player, who signed with Jordan Brand when he was just a newcomer with the Milwaukee Bucks, is considered among the greats in the sneakerhead community. During his 18-year career with Milwaukee, Seattle, Ray Allen became the league leader in 3-pointers made, finishing his career with 2,973 scores. His shoe cabinet is a testament to his love for sneakers, particularly PE sneakers.

However, the current PE championship goes to the Air Jordan 31s. Released by Jordan Brand before the season started, this pair of sneakers has been worn by different players, including Frank Kaminsky, Kawhi Leonard, Russell Westbrook, and Mike Conley. The new design of Air Jordan 31s has facilitated the creation of some of the best PE sneakers for NBA players. It pairs flawlessly with every team colorway, creating a unique pair of shoes for each player.

The Air Jordan 31s have been the most globally complimented for their streamlined design. While many consumers and fans tend to love the older models of AJ, the most popular are the ones that have been released recently. Who wears these PE sneakers the best, though? As each player brings a different style to the court, it’s hard to say. However, the Air Jordan 31s have become a favourite among NBA players due to their comfort, style, and versatility.

But If All Players Perfectly Match PE Sneakers?

While PE sneakers are a great way for athletes to express their personal style and brand, not all designs are well-received by fans and consumers. Even if all players were to perfectly match their PE sneakers, there is no guarantee that they would be popular with the general public.

Steph Curry's Curry 2 Low Chef shoes are a perfect example. Although they were a signature pair, they garnered ridicule because of their lack of style. Like Curry 1 PE shoes, some Curry 1 PEs feel like they’re ditching the classic vibe that Jordan PE shoes have for sneakerheads.

The brand behind Curry’s sneakers, Under Armour, is still fighting to push itself in the market and starting over. Unfortunately, our first look at the colorways and design of their PE sneakers feel cluttered and unfocused, which can feel disaffiliated from the sneaker crowd.

Personal expression and market appeal are vital for athletes' PE sneakers. Giving players the freedom to choose whatever they want to wear is fine, but you must also consider the tastes and desires of the general public.

Conclusion

Finally, PE sneakers, as we see them today, are still worn, with brands like Jordan, Adidas, and Under Armour leading the way in footwear. However, apart from the design of PE shoes, which hasn’t varied much, they have become common. These days, designing a pair of signature shoes by an NBA player for the 30 NBA teams might be an easy task.

PE shoes used to be exclusive to selected players, but now they are everywhere. As a result, the PE shoe market seems to be less exclusive. It is considered an extended brand for shoe companies to market their original sneakers that stimulate the PEs. However, PE sneakers are expected to continue to be an important part of players’ aesthetics in the future.

The PE shoe market will grow as players try to show their personality through their shoes. Customization options are becoming easier and easier, and we're looking forward to the future of PE sneakers.