If there’s one thing we know about Central Cee, it’s that he’s been a Nike guy through and through. The UK rapper even rapped about his love for the Swoosh in “Limitless,” a track from his Can’t Rush Greatness album, proudly bragging about signing a shoe deal with the iconic sportswear giant. So, naturally, when it comes to his footwear, we’ve all come to expect the familiar swoosh to be front and center.
But in a surprising style twist, Cench recently stepped out in Rome rocking something completely unexpected—a pair of Oakley Factory Team Chop Saws. Yes, you read that right. The rapper who has long repped Nike was suddenly making waves in a different sneaker brand, and it’s got us all rethinking our sneaker rotations.
Central Cee’s sneaker game is always on point, and his latest footwear flex shows he’s not afraid to step outside the mainstream hype. While heading to a Mercedes-Benz event at Villa Miani, the West London rapper ditched his usual Nikes for a pair of Oakley sneakers, making a bold statement with one of the most unique kicks in the game right now. The Oakley Chop Saws have already been making waves in the sneaker world, but with Cench co-signing them, you can bet they’re about to blow up even more. It’s a move that proves Cee’s sneaker game isn’t just about trends—it’s about setting them.
The Oakley Chop Saw: From Y2K Relic to Modern Cult Classic
For many, Oakley is synonymous with futuristic wraparound sunglasses—the kind you’d expect to see on extreme sports athletes or Y2K-era tech bros. However, sneakerheads know Oakley has more to offer than just shades. In the early 2000s, the brand ventured into footwear, and one of its most memorable creations was the Chop Saw. With its jagged, chunky midsole and aggressive aesthetic, the sneaker initially flew under the radar.
Fast forward to 2022, when LA-based streetwear label Brain Dead partnered with Oakley to bring the Chop Saw back to life. The rebooted version quickly gained a cult following, with A-listers like Brad Pitt and Emily Ratajkowski sporting them. Now, with Central Cee adding his seal of approval, these sneakers are about to hit an even wider audience.
Central Cee’s Take on the Chop Saw
The pair Central Cee sported in Rome was the Oakley Factory Team Chop Saw ‘Black’ edition from 2023. Featuring a sleek all-black nubuck upper with contrast white stitching, this sneaker balances ruggedness and high fashion. The brushed steel “O” logo on the side adds an industrial touch, while the signature wavy sole—arguably the sneaker’s most defining feature—gives it that unmistakable Chop Saw aesthetic.
What makes these kicks even more interesting is their skyrocketing resale value. Originally retailing for $170, they now fetch around $300 on StockX. Clearly, demand for these sneakers has surged, and with Central Cee’s recent endorsement, prices are likely to climb even higher. Whether you’re a die-hard sneakerhead or just love unique footwear, these Oakley Chop Saws are quickly becoming a must-have.
How to Style Oakley Chop Saws Like Central Cee
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Pulling off Oakley sneakers—especially a bold model like the Chop Saw—takes confidence. But if Central Cee can do it, so can you. Here are a few styling tips to make these sneakers work:
- Go for an All-Black Look – Cench kept things sleek and understated, pairing his Chop Saws with dark, relaxed pieces. You can do the same with black cargos, a fitted hoodie, and a bomber jacket.
- Play with Techwear Aesthetics – Given Oakley’s roots in futuristic, functional gear, these sneakers look great with techwear pieces like utility vests, cargo joggers, and oversized silhouettes.
- Contrast with Streetwear Staples – If full-on techwear isn’t your vibe, balance the sneaker’s boldness with classic streetwear essentials—baggy jeans, a vintage tee, and a fitted cap.
The Future of Oakley Sneakers
With Central Cee leading the charge, Oakley sneakers are poised to gain even more traction in both the fashion and sneaker communities. While giants like Nike and Adidas continue to dominate the mainstream sneaker game, Oakley’s resurgence, thanks to Brain Dead’s influence, offers a fresh, standout alternative for those looking to step outside the norm.
For now, the Oakley Factory Team Chop Saws remain an exclusive, hard-to-find gem. But as the hype continues to build, we might see more colorways and restocks on the horizon. One thing’s for sure: Central Cee just made them even cooler, and if you can get your hands on a pair, you’ll find yourself in elite sneakerhead territory.
So, are you ready to ditch the usual sneaker rotation and take a chance on Oakley sneakers? If Cench’s style influence is anything to go by, now is the time to cop a pair before they become even harder to snag.
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Featured image: Ernesto S. Ruscio/Getty Images
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