submissions

We are OPEN FOR SUBMISSIONS from May 15, 2026, to June 15, 2026!

Guidelines + Details

2,000 to 4,000 words
Nonfiction only
WE PAY $75 per published piece
Average two month response time
We nominate for prizes: Best of the Net, Pushcart, and Best American Essays. The sneaker wave story “Bleeding” was recognized as a Notable Mention in the 2026 edition of Best American Essays, edited by Jia Tolentino.

Our editors also offer line-level essay feedback year round. We want you and your work to shine, and we can make this happen for you. If you would like a full essay markup with margin notes by one of our masthead editors, select the “individual developmental edit” option ($150). If you would like a full essay markup with margin notes by three of our masthead editors, select “collective developmental edit” ($250).

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sneaker wave magazine is a digital platform for nonfiction storytelling, and we exist to publish, promote, and elevate the craft of nonfiction writers.

We look forward to reading your true story. Thank you for considering sneaker wave magazine as a home for your writing!

The Editors