This is The Meaning Behind Shoes Strung Up On A Power Line
Though less common today, you’ve probably seen sneakers tied together and tossed over power lines. I once thought it was just a harmless prank, but over time, I discovered various theories behind this peculiar sight.
One theory suggests it originated with soldiers who threw their boots over power lines after completing training—a symbolic farewell to military life. This tradition may have inspired other interpretations, such as the widespread but unproven belief that gangs use it to mark territory. Some speculate it’s a form of bullying, reminiscent of movie scenes where a kid’s shoes are taken and flung out of reach.
Despite these theories, the most popular and likely explanation is much simpler: people do it for fun. It may have started as a playful act and became a tradition that others continue after seeing it. Whatever the reason, the image of dangling sneakers remains a small mystery woven into the fabric of city streets.