‘We’re painting stories, not just sneakers,’ says HorlarofLagos on Lagos’ sneaker revolution

In a quiet Lagos studio filled with the scent of acrylics and the soft clinking of paintbrushes against glass jars, a creative movement was taking shape. This wasn’t just another sneaker project—it was a cultural statement. LayerX, a Lagos-based hand-painting brand, had been tasked with transforming sneakers into wearable art. This time, they were collaborating with global giants Nike and Converse, under Hudson and Urban Jungle, the franchise holders for the two brands in Nigeria.

For HorlarofLagos, a photographer, creative, and sneaker culture storyteller, the project marked a significant milestone. Reflecting on the collaboration, HorlarofLagos remarked, “This wasn’t just about painting sneakers; it was about telling our own stories through them. Lagos has a rhythm, a style, an energy—and that’s what we captured.”

The Nike collaboration was especially noteworthy. Only 150 custom-designed, one-of-a-kind pairs were released. Each sneaker reflected the raw essence of Nigerian street culture. The response was immediate and overwhelming, as the collection sold out in record time, demonstrating Lagos’ deep-rooted sneaker culture.

While the Nike collection emphasized exclusivity, the Converse collaboration celebrated community. With over 400 pairs released, the designs blended classic Converse heritage with modern Lagos street style. Each pair became a statement piece, reinforcing Nigeria’s growing influence in the global sneaker scene.

HorlarofLagos’ influence extends beyond creative collaborations. As a former ambassador for Shoelab, Nigeria’s largest sneaker care brand, he played a pivotal role in nurturing a culture of sneaker preservation and pride. “I wasn’t just wearing the brand; I was building a culture around it,” HorlarofLagos explained. “Sneakers aren’t just fashion here—they’re personal. People want to take care of them, preserve them, keep them fresh. And that’s where Shoelab came in.”

The Nike x Converse collaboration signifies Nigeria’s evolving role in global sneaker culture. Once known primarily for importing trends, Nigeria is now exporting its unique style and creativity to the world.

“The future of sneaker culture isn’t just happening in New York or Tokyo—it’s happening in Lagos,” HorlarofLagos declared. “And this is just the beginning.”