Culture Kings sneaker display device recalled after risk of injury or death

An urgent recall has been issued for a popular clothing and footwear brand, Culture Kings, after fears one of its products could cause injury and even death.

Product Safety Australia announced the recall of the Culture Kings — Sneaker Basel Magnetic Levitation Sneaker Displays on Monday after potential hazards were found in models sold nationally, internationally and online.

The electronic sneaker display contains lights and magnets, with more magnets placed in the heel of shoes, causing them to levitate in the display.

The regulator said the strength of the magnets, which should be kept at least 16cm apart, “can forcefully attract, break, splinter and emit sparks if they come together”.

“If pulled apart, broken pieces may eject with force,” it said.

This causes risks for “lacerations”, as well as the chance of the magnets being swallowed, either accidentally or intentionally.

“When two or more high-powered magnets are swallowed...the ingested magnets can attract each other and become lodged in the digestive system,” the recall said.

This can lead to perforations, twisting or blockage of the intestines that “can lead to infection and death”, with reported injuries in Australia and the US.

People who have purchased display case models CXF-22 and CXF-24B, sold between July 15, 2020 and January 4, 2023, are advised to keep the magnets at least 16cm apart at all times and not to attempt to separate them if they come together.

Customers can return their Culture Kings — Sneaker Basel Magnetic Levitation Sneaker Displays for a full refund or contact the company via email at recall@culturekings.com.au