Mos Def struts sneakers for S.F. New Year’s Eve event

SAN FRANCISCO (Map, News) - Rapper and Emmy- and Golden Globe Award-nominated actor Mos Def is the host of the “Sneakers Required New Year’s Eve Ball 2008,” an event whose partial proceeds benefit H.E.A.R., a group that works to educate the public on the dangers of excessive noise and to provide hearing protection for musicians and music fans.

Along with an appearance by Mos Def, the chic party will feature performances by Goapele as well as DJ Namane and Mike Tiger. San Francisco’s DJ Mr. E, New York City’s DJ Boogie Blind and Mos Def’s producer DJ Preservation will also spin.

There’s a requirement to attend the bash, though. Guests are expected to parade their most fashionable pair of kicks; they’re also urged to bring an extra pair for charitable donations.

The night is all about sneaker couture, but it doesn’t matter what style you wear, whether it be Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Puma, Vans or Converse — just leave your boots at home.

Doors open at 9 p.m. Monday.; the venue is La Terra, 511 Harrison St., San Francisco.

Tickets are $150 in advance; $200 at the door. For more information, visit sanfrancisco.going.com/terraNYE08.