A pair of sneakers decorated with a controversial flag is fetching thousands of dollars on auction websites because the patriotic footwear was recalled.
Footwear maker Nike recalled its Air Max 1 Fourth of July trainers after former National Football League player Colin Kaepernick complained the older American flag stitched onto the heel of the shoes was offensive.
The Betsy Ross flag with 13 stars was designed to represent the unity of 13 colonies back in the year 1876 when slavery was widespread in North America.
TMZ claims it visited the online streetwear auction store StockX and found a size 8 pair of Betsy Ross shoes selling for $2,501, sizes 9 and 10.5 for $2,000 each pair, another size 10.5 for $1,750, and a few size 10s for $1,200 a pair.
At the time TMZ had doubts another StockX seller would fetch $6,974 for a pair of size 10s.
The Epoch Times can confirm a size 9 pair is being auctioned on eBay USA and bids have already reached at least $8,200.
The item is located in Buford, Georgia, and bidding will end on July 9.
The Nike Air Max was originally designed by Christian Tresser who was inspired by Japan’s high-speed bullet trains to make a trainer from leather, foam, and full-length visible air.
The shoes are popular for running due to the favorable shape of the sole and well padded heel, allowing the person wearing them to maintain good posture while moving.
