Trump Makes Surprise Appearance to Launch Sneaker Line

PHILADELPHIA—Former President Donald Trump announced during a surprise appearance at Philadelphia’s “Sneaker Con” on Feb. 17 that he’s launched a Trump-branded sneaker line.

The appearance at the non-political event seemed to come out of left field from the Trump campaign. But it quickly became obvious why President Trump was making the abnormal appearance: it was to unveil the merchandise called Trump Sneakers, which are available for preorder online.

A special limited edition sneaker, “The Never Surrender High-Top,” was already sold out at press time. With only 1,000 pairs manufactured, the luxury sneaker costs $399 and features a gold finish and gold laces, a “T” branded on the side, and an American flag design on the collar of the shoe. Around 10 of these will feature autographs by President Trump.

Two additional sneakers, the “T-Red Wave” and “POTUS 45,” were also announced. These feature similar designs in two variants that feature a red and gray color scheme, and another featuring a white and gold color scheme. Both variants have a “T” and the number “45,” a reference to President Trump’s role as the 45th president of the United States, on the side. Both cost $199.

President Trump also announced two fragrances, including “Victory 47 Cologne” and “Victory 47 Perfume.” Both cost $99.

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Reactions to President Trump’s appearance at the apolitical event were mixed. While some attendees proudly waved signs reading “Sneakerheads Love Trump,” Others could be heard shouting expletives and curses toward the president. Cheers and jeers alike could be heard from the crowd.

“I’ve wanted to do this for a long time,” President Trump told the audience. “I have some incredible people who work with me on things and they came up with this. This is something I’ve been talking about for 12 years, 13 years.

“That’s the real deal,” President Trump added, holding up a pair of the limited edition sneakers.

2024 Battle

But while the event itself was apolitical, it was held in a city that could be crucial in the 2024 battle for the presidency. Philadelphia is the bluest part of a state that’s become increasingly crucial since 2016.

In 2016, President Trump carried the state over former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton by a margin of just 0.72 percent, aiding his Electoral College victory. In 2020, President Trump reportedly lost the state to President Joe Biden by another paper-thin margin: 1.17 percent.

“The most important thing is to go out and vote,” President Trump told the audience.

He also vowed to the largely young audience, “We’re gonna remember the young people.”

Shawn Carter and Kristian Snow were two of those young people who heard President Trump speak.

Asked whether pro-Trump sentiment in blue Philadelphia was more pronounced than last time, Mr. Carter, who said he voted for President Trump in 2020, told The Epoch Times, “Oh yeah.”

“I think it’s more anti-Biden than pro-Trump,” Mr. Snow added.

Other young people, some toting Trump gear, agreed.