Wakanda shoes are those? In the T'Challa Designer Toy, Tracy Tubera has traded the Black Panther's socks-and-sandals for some kingly kicks. (We're certain Shuri would approve.)

Artist Statement: I have always loved the design and colors of SNEAKERS. The bright colors and intricate designs are the same reasons why I love COMIC BOOKS/SUPERHEROES. Also, there is always the story behind a certain Super Hero. Their SECRET ORIGIN. The amazing story of how a character got his/her powers. Or the incredible circumstances that caused a character to become a Super Hero. Most sneakers also have their own 'Secret Origin'. The process that it took a designer to get to the final look of a sneaker. What inspired the look of a shoe. What influenced the use of certain materials or colors. So many things in common that I always felt needed to be explored.

These vinyl figures are what I call S.H.S. aka Super Heroes in Sneakers- two things that meant a lot to me growing up and still do to this day. Two completely different cultures mashed together to create a new visual of things most people wouldn't normally see together. I always wondered what kicks my favorite Super Hero would wear. That's why I would create these illustrations and now DESIGNER TOYS!

For my T'CHALLA piece I wanted him to look like he is caught in a moment of time. Leaping down to pounce on the enemy. T'CHALLA is wearing his Vibranium laced suit, with sneakers that I imagine would maximize his abilities. Sneakers that would help him run smoother and jump with some bounce. Sneakers fit for a KING! WAKANDA FOREVER!