CoolKicks is a private sneaker resale / streetwear lifestyle company. It operates both in physical retail (brick-and-mortar stores) and online. Its business revolves around buying, reselling, and trading limited-edition sneakers and hype streetwear.
The company is not publicly listed on any stock exchange (i.e., not a public company).
The brand’s flagship store is located on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, California — an area known for its influence on street culture and sneaker fashion. Over the years, CoolKicks has evolved into one of the most recognized names in the global sneaker resale market, attracting celebrities, athletes, and influencers from around the world.
CoolKicks built its reputation by offering authenticity-guaranteed products, competitive pricing, and a unique in-store experience where sneaker enthusiasts can buy, sell, or trade high-demand shoes such as Nike Jordans, Yeezys, and collaborations with major designers. The company has also leveraged its massive YouTube and social media presence to reach millions of fans, showcasing celebrity interactions and exclusive sneaker drops.
In addition to retail, CoolKicks has expanded its brand through related ventures and collaborations, contributing to the broader sneaker and streetwear ecosystem. Its success has positioned it among the top resale destinations in the United States and globally, often compared with platforms like StockX and GOAT.
Founders & Leadership

- Adeel Shams — A key founder and the most public face of the company; frequently referred to as CEO.
- Bereket Abraham — Co-founder, and credited in sources as one of the owners.
These two individuals are most commonly associated with founding and owning CoolKicks.
CoolKicks Ownership Structure
Because CoolKicks is privately held, its precise shareholding structure is not publicly disclosed in regulatory filings. However, what is known is:
- The founders (Adeel Shams and Bereket Abraham) hold primary ownership stakes.
- There is evidence (from sources like PitchBook) that the company has at least one investor (a minority investment), meaning there may be outside parties owning a smaller percentage.
- No single external entity or large public investor is known to control the company.
Thus, ownership is concentrated among the founders, with possible minority investors.
Recent Developments & Issues
- Recently, Adeel Shams was arrested after an LAPD raid on a CoolKicks warehouse. The raid involved allegations of stolen property.
- CoolKicks has responded, claiming that they purchased some merchandise “in good faith” and denied knowledge that the items were stolen.
- As of now, there is no confirmed public disclosure that ownership or control has shifted because of these legal issues.
These events have led to increased scrutiny over who is actually running or controlling CoolKicks behind the scenes.
FAQs
Q1. Who is the current owner of CoolKicks?
The current owners are the founders, chiefly Adeel Shams, along with Bereket Abraham. They hold the main ownership stakes.
Q2. Is CoolKicks publicly traded or private?
CoolKicks is a private company (not publicly traded).
Q3. Are there external investors in CoolKicks?
Yes — there is evidence of at least one outside investor (minority), but the founders remain in control.
Q4. Has ownership changed recently?
Not publicly confirmed. Despite legal issues involving Adeel Shams, there’s no verified information that ownership or control has shifted.
Q5. Who is in charge (CEO / leader)?
Adeel Shams is publicly represented as CEO / leader, and pivotal to operations, according to public profiles.
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