Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Kicks' Shop: Limited Shoes – A Review

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Introduction

Animal Crossing: New Horizons has captivated players with its charming world, relaxing gameplay, and endless customization options. One of the most beloved features is the ability to personalize your character’s appearance, including footwear. Kicks, the traveling skunk merchant, brings a rotating selection of shoes, socks, and bags to your island. However, some shoes are rarer than others, making them highly sought-after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts.

In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into Kicks’ Shop and its limited-edition shoes, evaluating their designs, rarity, and overall appeal. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer, this guide will help you decide which kicks are worth the Bells!

Who is Kicks?

Before diving into the shoes, let’s briefly discuss Kicks himself. This friendly skunk first appeared in Animal Crossing: Wild World and has since become a staple in the series. In New Horizons, he visits your island’s plaza once a week, setting up a small stall near Able Sisters’ shop.

Kicks sells:

Shoes (sneakers, boots, sandals, etc.)
Socks (knee-high, ankle, patterned)
Bags (backpacks, handbags, pouches)

While most of his stock is common, some shoes appear only once in a blue moon, making them collector’s items.

The Rarest Shoes in Kicks’ Shop

Not all shoes are created equal. Some are everyday finds, while others are extremely rare and highly coveted. Below are some of the most exclusive kicks you might encounter:

1. Royal Crown Shoes

Rarity: ★★★★★
Price: 12,000 Bells
Appearance: Gold-trimmed, regal design with a deep red base.
Why They’re Special: These shoes match the Royal Crown, one of the most expensive items in the game. They rarely appear in Kicks’ inventory, making them a status symbol.

2. Power Boots

Rarity: ★★★★☆
Price: 4,200 Bells
Appearance: Chunky, futuristic sneakers with metallic accents.
Why They’re Special: These boots have a unique sci-fi aesthetic, perfect for superhero or robot-themed outfits.

3. Kimono Sandals

Rarity: ★★★★☆
Price: 1,200 Bells
Appearance: Traditional Japanese-style sandals with a wooden base.
Why They’re Special: They perfectly complement kimono outfits and are rare outside of special events.

4. Mage’s Booties

Rarity: ★★★☆☆
Price: 2,800 Bells
Appearance: Pointed-toe boots with mystical embroidery.
Why They’re Special: Ideal for fantasy-themed outfits, these boots are a must-have for wizards and witches.

5. Wingtip Shoes

Rarity: ★★★☆☆
Price: 3,500 Bells
Appearance: Classic brogues with a polished finish.
Why They’re Special: A sophisticated choice for formal outfits, rarely seen in Kicks’ rotation.

Are Limited Shoes Worth It?

With so many shoe options, is it worth hunting down the rare ones? Here’s a quick breakdown:

✅ Pros:

Unique Aesthetic: Rare shoes help your character stand out.
Completionist Appeal: Collectors love tracking down elusive items.
Outfit Synergy: Some shoes perfectly match high-end clothing sets.

❌ Cons:

Expensive: Some cost over 10,000 Bells.
Random Availability: You might wait weeks (or months) for a restock.
No Functional Benefit: They don’t affect gameplay—just style.

Verdict: If you love customization and rare items, they’re absolutely worth it. Otherwise, common shoes work just fine!

How to Increase Your Chances of Finding Rare Shoes

Since Kicks’ inventory is random, here are some tips to improve your odds:

Check Every Visit: Kicks appears once a week—don’t skip his stall!
Time Travel (If You’re Okay With It): Some players reset their game’s date to force a restock.
Trade with Friends: If a friend has rare shoes, arrange a trade or catalog swap.
Watch for Seasonal Releases: Some shoes (like holiday-themed ones) appear only during events.

Final Thoughts

Kicks’ limited-edition shoes add an extra layer of excitement to Animal Crossing: New Horizons. While they don’t impact gameplay, their exclusivity and stylish designs make them a fun pursuit for dedicated players. Whether you’re rocking the Royal Crown Shoes or keeping it casual with sneakers, footwear is just another way to express yourself in this delightful game.

What’s your favorite pair of shoes from Kicks? Let us know in the comments!