Men's Sneakers, 1950-1955

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Artifact Overview

Canvas shoes with rubber soles called sneakers gained popularity after World War II. Sports participation (particularly in basketball) was growing, and a distinct youth culture was emerging as a commercial force. Manufacturers began marketing sneakers to this new market in the 1950s. These Red Ball Jets made by Ball-Band were one option for teenage athletes or trendsetters.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Sneakers

Date Made

1950-1955

Creators

Place of Creation

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2008.145.30

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Randolph C. and Nancy M. Carey.

Material

Canvas
Rubber (Material)

Color

Black (Color)
White (Color)

Inscriptions

Soles: F S XPS / 22 [upside down] / MADE IN U.S.A. Backs: FIRST QUALITY / BALL BAND / TRADE / MARK Upper: RED BALL / Jets / BY BALL-BAND Insoles: METATARSAL / CUSHION LONGITUDINAL / CUSHION BALL-BAND / ARCH-GARD / STA-KLEEN / INSOLE CUSHION / HEEL Stamped inside both shoes: 8 43902 27 End of box: Arch-Gard / Jets / mens / black / cosmo / S4120M 8 Ends of box top: RED BALL Box top: Red / Ball / Jets they're fast! / BALL-BAND MISHAWAKA RUBBER & WOOLEN MFG. CO., MISHAWAKA, INDIANA
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