The Top Custom Sneaker Designers You Need to Know

The Top Custom Sneaker Designers You Need to Know

At Star Cleaner, we know a fresh pair can turn heads—but a custom? That starts conversations. Whether it’s hand-painted details, reconstructed silhouettes, or wild materials no brand would dare try, these custom sneaker artists are elevating the culture one pair at a time.

Here’s our list of top custom sneaker designers who turn soles into wearable art:


1. The Shoe Surgeon (Dominic Ciambrone)

The king of luxury customs. The Shoe Surgeon is known for turning Jordans and AF1s into high-end statement pieces—think python leather, Louis Vuitton panels, or full rebuilds. He’s collaborated with the biggest names in the game and runs classes to pass the torch.

Signature vibe: Premium reconstruction. Haute couture meets hoop dreams.


2. Mache (Dan Gamache)

Mache’s been in the custom game for over a decade, working with LeBron James, Steph Curry, and WWE superstars. His hand-painted customs are bold, colorful, and often pop culture-inspired.

Signature vibe: Pop art meets performance.


3. Kickstradomis (Salvador Amezcua)

This L.A.-based artist made waves by designing customs for NBA players on the court. He’s put Dragon Ball Z, Marvel, and anime themes on kicks mid-season. Loud, unapologetic, and always hype.

Signature vibe: Fan culture turned fire kicks.


4. Ceeze

Ceeze focuses on small-batch luxury customs using exotic materials. Think deconstructed AF1s with crocodile, suede, or upcycled designer fabrics. His work bridges the gap between fashion and footwear.

Signature vibe: Designer collab energy, even when it’s unofficial.


5. Sierato

A wizard with an airbrush, Sierato creates detailed, often mind-bending designs that look straight out of a graphic novel. He’s worked with celebs and athletes, and his customs are instantly recognizable.

Signature vibe: Bright colors, insane detail, and no rules.


6. Relevant Customs

From clean rebuilds to thematic storytelling, Relevant Customs (Austin, TX) focuses on minimalism with meaning. The brand brings art gallery aesthetics to the street.

Signature vibe: Subtle flex with deep context.


7. Dez Customz

Dez blends comic book, anime, and hip-hop themes with detailed airbrushing and traditional painting. If you’ve seen Goku on a pair of Foamposites, it was probably him.

Signature vibe: Geek culture + grail craftsmanship.


How to Keep Your Customs Clean

Custom kicks are investments. And just like any art, they deserve protection.
Star Cleaner keeps customs fresh without water, scrubbing, or risk of damage. Safe for premium leathers, painted details, and rare materials.


One-of-a-kind shoes deserve one-of-a-kind care.
Got customs in the rotation? Star Cleaner is Good 4 the Sole.

Back to blog