As Link unlocks the ornate chest in the Legend of Zelda,

the anticipation builds as a radiant light escapes. This long awaited moment of finding a one-of-a-kind treasure mirrors that of receiving shoes that are customized to you. Founded by two friends who wanted to challenge themselves in different arts media, comes DKAI Customs – a local business that levels up your shoe game using your imagination.

What started out as a search across Toronto for the perfect birthday gift, has grown to this reputable 2 year old establishment with over 100 custom orders to its name thus far. In such a short time frame, DKAI Customs have been able to expand their reach beyond their wildest dreams. To name a few:

• Receiving, completing and shipping international orders
• Customizing footwear for Raptors Gaming Club (GC) through Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Ltd. (MLSE)
• Executing a personalized tie for Canadian singer, Michael Bublé
• Partnering with Black Creek Community Health Centre to host a 10 week shoe customization workshop for youth
• Exhibiting at Prototype, a RAW Artists Showcase this upcoming February 24th, 2023

With all the necessary equipment and material, co-creators Abishake and Koshy, walkthrough the process of taking any pair from ‘Meh’ to ‘COWABUNGA’. It starts with the concept. Though it is recommended to bring your own footwear, shoes can always be purchased based on availability. Then, together with an artist, you will develop a design tailored to your interests, aesthetic and overall vibe. Doing everything from sports, old school cartoons and animes to tributes, icons and nature scenes are just some of the things you can find on their social media platforms. So even if you are not sure if you want a space theme or mode of transportation, they will be there to help you every step of the way.

Now no matter who is on the receiving end of DKAI Customs’ power ups, these artists take great pride in every pair of shoes they work on. Koshy explained these sentiments when sharing the moment he delivered his first order, “Seeing his reaction and his face light-up when I brought his custom shoes, was what made me realize that this was just the beginning and I had a gift of bringing some joy to people with my artwork.”

So when you look at a pair of shoes that are personalized to you, remember that someone made them especially to support you in expressing yourself. Nothing exactly like them exists in the world. Own it and let that put confidence in your steps.

Website: https://www.dkai.ca/

Notes: 1. DKAI Customs was co-created in Toronto, Ontario.
2. Discovered through personal network.
3. Both Abishake and Koshy customized their own shoes in the beginnings of DKAI Customs to help promote their local business. Abishake’s favourite personal custom revolved around One Punch Man and the Demon Slayer while Koshy’s included Gohan and Piccolo from Dragon Ball Z.