Sneaker Game opened its doors at 227 Fifth Ave. on Feb. 4 with walls lined with popular shoes.

“I always wanted to open a business, but I didn’t know what to do because I used to always work in restaurants,” said Obiel Carino, owner of Sneaker Game. “I was thinking of opening a restaurant, but I was thinking that you need to rely on too many people for that. I wanted something that was just based on me, and I can rely on myself.”

According to Carino, his passion for sneakers started during the pandemic. He said he would fill his time in quarantine by watching YouTube, which is where he learned about various sneakers. This inspired him to open a store that catered to fellow sneaker lovers.

Carino used to live in New Rochelle, so he was familiar with Pelham being within walking distance.

“It’s a very quiet and secure town, and I love the people,” said Carino.

While February was a slow season for retail, the warm weather is attracting more customers, according Carino. He said he hopes to grow Sneaker Game and have a few shops in Westchester County in the future.

Sneaker Game can be contacted at [email protected] and their Instagram is @sneakergamecorp.