Overkill

Overkill in Kreuzberg: from Graffiti Magazine to Sneaker Shop

Overkill started in 1992 as a magazine from the Berlin graffiti scene, which first became a mail-order business in Treptow and then, in September 2003, a store in Kreuzberg, less than sixty square meters in size, for spray cans, sneakers, and streetwear. From the beginning, exhibitions, concerts, and parties were part of it. In 2007 and 2008, the area grew to 250 square meters, followed by a complete renovation in 2014 with the clothing department on the first floor. In 2016, its own women’s store was added, in 2019 the Concept Store GATE in the backyard, and in 2021 a branch in Cologne. Since the end of 2025, the women’s assortment has returned to the main store; the former space is being converted for temporary events and collaborations. Older city guides still list the women’s store as a separate address, but this is no longer true. The entire operation is still run without a chain behind it; besides Berlin, there is only the Cologne store.

Over 500 Sneaker Models, Two Floors, and a Wall Full of Spray Cans

The main store is located directly at Schlesisches Tor, measuring approximately 200 square meters on two floors and carrying over 500 sneaker models. Represented brands include adidas, Nike, Asics, New Balance, Puma, Mizuno, Dr. Martens, Y-3, and Crocs, plus collaborations like Wales Bonner for Y-3 or Willy Chavarria for adidas. Regular collaborations are created with adidas, Asics, New Balance, and KangaROOS. The second half of the assortment is what distinguishes the store from all others in the city: a large graffiti selection with acrylic and bombing cans, markers, sketchbooks, magazines, and protective gear. Prices range from approximately 60 to 280 Euros, an Asics Gel-SJ33 pair costs 140 Euros. Limited models are allocated via raffles, which require a user account and payment exclusively via PayPal. Construction is currently underway on Köpenicker Straße, creating a new protected bicycle lane and renovating the roadway. Payments in the store can be made in cash as well as with debit and credit cards; release items must be purchased on-site and are not shipped.