Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Kicks: Shoe Styles – A Review

Introduction

Animal Crossing: New Horizons (ACNH) is a life simulation game that allows players to express their creativity through customization, including clothing and footwear. One of the most beloved traveling merchants in the game is Kicks, a skunk who sells shoes, socks, and bags. His stylish collection adds flair to any player’s wardrobe. In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into Kicks’ shoe styles, examining their designs, versatility, and overall appeal in the game.

Who is Kicks?

Kicks is a recurring character in the Animal Crossing series, first appearing in Wild World. In New Horizons, he visits the player’s island randomly, setting up his stall in the plaza. Unlike the Able Sisters’ shop, which offers a rotating selection of clothing, Kicks specializes in footwear and accessories, making him a must-visit for fashion-conscious players.

His personality is polite and business-savvy, often complimenting players on their style. While his inventory is smaller than the Able Sisters’, his items are unique and sometimes hard to find elsewhere.

Categories of Shoes Sold by Kicks

Kicks offers a variety of footwear styles, each fitting different aesthetics. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories:

1. Casual Sneakers

Sneakers are a staple in any wardrobe, and Kicks provides several stylish options:

Slip-on Sneakers – Simple, comfortable, and perfect for a laid-back look.
High-Top Sneakers – Trendy and great for sporty outfits.
Color-Blocked Sneakers – Bold designs that stand out.

Best for: Players who prefer a relaxed, everyday style.

2. Formal & Dress Shoes

For players who enjoy dressing up, Kicks offers:

Loafers – Classic and polished, ideal for business or formal wear.
Wingtip Shoes – Vintage and sophisticated.
Mary Janes – Cute and feminine, great for elegant outfits.

Best for: Players who love formal or retro-inspired looks.

3. Boots & Weather-Appropriate Footwear

Kicks also sells shoes suited for different seasons:

Rain Boots – Functional and stylish for rainy days.
Combat Boots – Edgy and perfect for punk or military-inspired outfits.
Winter Boots – Cozy and warm for snowy months.

Best for: Seasonal outfits or themed island aesthetics.

4. Unique & Thematic Shoes

Some of Kicks’ most interesting offerings include:

Zap Boots – Futuristic and flashy.
Kimono Sandals – Traditional Japanese footwear.
Basketball Shoes – Sporty and vibrant.

Best for: Players who enjoy themed costumes or standout pieces.

Top 5 Must-Buy Shoes from Kicks

With so many options, here are five standout shoes worth purchasing:

Wingtip Shoes – Timeless and versatile, matching both formal and vintage outfits.
Combat Boots – Adds an edgy touch to any outfit.
Kimono Sandals – Perfect for traditional or festival-themed looks.
Rain Boots – A fun and practical choice for rainy days.
Zap Boots – Unique and eye-catching for sci-fi or futuristic styles.

How Kicks Compares to Other Clothing Vendors

While the Able Sisters offer a broader range of clothing, Kicks provides exclusive footwear that isn’t always available elsewhere. His rotating stock encourages players to check in regularly, much like Label’s fashion challenges or Saharah’s rugs and wallpaper.

Pros of Shopping with Kicks:

Unique shoe styles not found at Able Sisters.
Occasionally sells rare colors or limited-edition items.
Adds variety to the player’s wardrobe.

Cons:

Limited stock per visit.
Random appearances mean players may miss desired items.

Fashion Tips: Styling Kicks’ Shoes

Here are some outfit ideas using Kicks’ footwear:

1. Sporty Look

Top: Athletic Jacket
Bottom: Running Shorts
Shoes: High-Top Sneakers

2. Elegant Outfit

Top: Tuxedo Jacket
Bottom: Formal Pants
Shoes: Wingtip Shoes

3. Edgy Style

Top: Leather Jacket
Bottom: Ripped Jeans
Shoes: Combat Boots

Final Verdict: Is Kicks Worth the Bells?

Kicks may not be as essential as the Able Sisters, but his exclusive shoe selection makes him a valuable vendor. His items allow for greater customization, helping players perfect their island aesthetic.

Rating: 8.5/10
✅ Pros: Unique styles, great variety, fun additions to outfits.
❌ Cons: Limited stock, random visits.

Conclusion

Kicks’ shoe collection in Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers something for every fashion taste, from casual sneakers to elegant dress shoes. While his appearances are unpredictable, his inventory is always worth checking out. Whether you’re dressing for comfort, style, or a themed event, Kicks has the perfect pair of shoes to complete your look.

Do you have a favorite pair from Kicks? Share your top picks in the comments!

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