Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Kicks' Shop: Shoe Collection Variety – A Review

Tags: Animal Crossing, New Horizons, Kicks' Shop, Shoe Collection, Fashion Review, Nintendo Switch

Introduction

Animal Crossing: New Horizons has captivated players with its charming world, customization options, and an ever-expanding wardrobe. Among the many shops in the game, Kicks' Shoe Store stands out as a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts. Kicks, the skunk with a passion for footwear, offers a rotating selection of shoes, socks, and bags that allow players to perfect their islander’s style.

In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into Kicks' Shop, examining the variety of footwear available, the frequency of stock rotation, and how his collection compares to other in-game fashion options.

Who is Kicks?

Kicks is a recurring character in the Animal Crossing series, first introduced in Wild World. In New Horizons, he operates a small shoe stand in the plaza after the player upgrades Resident Services. Unlike the Able Sisters' shop, which opens daily, Kicks appears randomly, making his visits a special occasion for shoe lovers.

His inventory includes:

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

Each visit brings a fresh selection, ensuring players always have something new to look forward to.

The Shoe Collection: Variety & Style

Kicks' shoe collection is impressively diverse, catering to different aesthetics—whether players prefer casual, elegant, or quirky looks. Here’s a breakdown of some standout categories:

1. Sneakers & Athletic Shoes

For players who love a sporty vibe, Kicks offers multiple sneaker styles:

Running Shoes (basic colors, neon variants)
Basketball Shoes (high-tops with bold designs)
Slip-Ons (perfect for a laid-back island aesthetic)

These shoes pair well with athletic outfits or streetwear-inspired looks.

2. Boots & Winter Footwear

Seasonal footwear is essential in New Horizons, especially during winter. Kicks provides:

Rain Boots (colorful, patterned)
Combat Boots (edgy and versatile)
Snow Boots (cozy and functional for winter months)

These options ensure players stay stylish in any weather.

3. Sandals & Open-Toe Shoes

For tropical island life, sandals are a must-have. Kicks' selection includes:

Flip-Flops (basic and printed)
Gladiator Sandals (for a more refined look)
Ballet Flats (cute and feminine)

These are perfect for summer outfits or beachside strolls.

4. Formal & Elegant Footwear

Players who enjoy dressing up will appreciate:

Loafers (classic and polished)
Mary Janes (adorable and vintage-inspired)
Pumps (for a sophisticated touch)

These shoes elevate formal outfits, making them ideal for special events or photo shoots.

5. Unique & Thematic Shoes

Kicks also stocks fun, unconventional footwear:

Zori & Geta (traditional Japanese sandals)
Bunny Slippers (whimsical and cozy)
Power Boots (for superhero-inspired outfits)

These add personality to any wardrobe.

Socks & Bags: The Perfect Accessories

Beyond shoes, Kicks sells socks and bags that complete an outfit:

Socks Selection

Ankle Socks (solid colors, stripes)
Knee-High Socks (schoolgirl aesthetic)
Patterned Socks (stars, hearts, polka dots)

Bags & Backpacks

Crossbody Bags (casual and chic)
Backpacks (great for adventurers)
Clutches (elegant evening wear)

These accessories allow for even more customization.

Stock Rotation & Rarity

One downside is that Kicks doesn’t have a permanent shop, meaning players must wait for his random visits. However, his stock refreshes each time, so dedicated collectors can eventually obtain every style. Some shoes are rarer than others, making them exciting finds.

Comparison to Able Sisters & Custom Designs

While the Able Sisters offer a broader clothing selection, Kicks specializes in footwear, providing unique options not found elsewhere. Additionally, custom designs can’t replicate the 3D details of Kicks’ shoes, making his shop invaluable for fashion-forward players.

Final Verdict: Is Kicks' Shop Worth It?

Pros:
✔ Wide variety of shoes for every style
✔ Unique socks and bags unavailable elsewhere
✔ Rotating stock keeps shopping exciting

Cons:
❌ Random appearances make collecting slow
❌ Some styles are rare and hard to find

Overall, Kicks' Shop is a fantastic addition to New Horizons, offering essential fashion pieces that elevate any player’s wardrobe. While his sporadic visits can be frustrating, the thrill of discovering new shoes makes it worthwhile.

For shoe lovers, Kicks is a must-visit vendor—just keep an eye out for him in the plaza!

Final Rating: 9/10 – A stylish and essential stop for any Animal Crossing fashionista.

Would you like to see Kicks get a permanent shop in future updates? Let us know in the comments!

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