As a sneakerhead, protecting our precious kicks is at the very top of our priority list. You might think that keeping them in their original boxes is a safe way to store them but that couldn't be further from the truth. The original cardboard shoeboxes offer very little protection from the things that can damage your sneakers. In fact, cardboard itself can actually be the cause of many sneakerheads' biggest nightmares.

Here are five reasons why you should avoid storing your kicks in the original cardboard shoebox.

1. Your Kicks Need To Breathe

You might think that the original cardboard box keeps moisture out, but that's not the case. Moisture is the culprit for most aging issues: cracked midsoles, discoloring, sole separation, etc. 

In fact, that's why brands throw in those weird little silica gel packets. but you would need a serious amount of silica gel to soak up moisture over long periods of time. Letting your kicks get a controlled amount of fresh air is key to making them last.

2. Cardboard Boxes Are Meant To Be Crushed

Boxes being crushed is great when you're recycling, but not when you're stacking your kicks. However, if you haven't experienced the collateral damage of boxes collapsing, you have probably seen it on social media. It's the worst! Not only can you kicks get damaged but having a heavily damaged box can lower the resale value of your kicks, and sometimes, prevent you from selling them at all.

3. Stacking Cardboard Boxes Keeps You From Wearing Your Kicks

When you have a lot of sneakers, having access to them has to be a priority. When you have towers of cardboard shoeboxes stocked, not only are you at risk for damaging your kicks, but it's a pain to access any the shoes towards the bottom of your stacks. Don't end up like this person...

4. Cardboard Shoeboxes Age Just Like Sneakers

If you're storing your kicks to sell them one day, you need the original box to be in perfect condition. Even if you're wearing your kicks, none of us want to see yellowing boxes, discolored labels, or other wear and tear. Take it from us, if you're set on keeping your original shoeboxes, keep your kicks on the Throne and throw those OG boxes into a giant moving box far in the back of your garage.

5. Cardboard Is A Breeding Ground For Bacteria

Just think about all the dirt, grime, bacteria, and germs that your sneakers come in contact with when you wear them. Now imagine all of that tucked away in a box that is cool in temperature with just a small amount of moisture. If you're imagining a fifth grade science experiment gone wrong with mold growing in all corners of the shoebox, you get the picture. This should serve as a reminder to clean your kicks before you store them away. More importantly...

Do NOT Store Your Sneakers in a Cardboard Shoebox

Whether it's just a handful of pairs or in the hundreds, keeping good care of your sneakers is not only allows you to get the most life out of them, it also makes them perfect for displaying in your Sneaker Throne.