I am a sneakerhead episode 182 - @Katoh_poko7
First of all, could you please introduce yourself?
My name is Poko, I live in Bangkok Thailand, and I am the admin of a Facebook group called "Asics, New Balance, Saucony, Diadora Thailand" and also Mizuno Riders. it would be my pleasure if you guys joined my group. Both groups are a good community to share your collection, passionate and sneaker photos.
For how long have you been collecting sneakers, do you remember what your first pair was?
I started with my passion for skateboarding shoes when I was 14 years old. That was the first time I really began to buy sneakers for myself, I can’t believe that is already 30 years ago. My first pair was AirWalk One for those who skateboard you should know how cool is it.
Living in Bangkok, how do you think the local community is?
For the past 7-10 years, not many people in Bangkok have been paying more attention to sneakers. It’s like a small community but the times have changed, unfortunately. Today, many people pay more attention to sneaker release calendars. And when you go downtown you can see many people wearing the hype sneakers for example Air Jordan 1, Nike Dunk collaboration, and New Balance. Now a day here in Thailand sneakers seems like a part of life.
Do you have any go-to shops in the Bangkok area, or do you buy anything online?
We have 24kilates, Atmos Bangkok, Canival BKK, JD Sport, Hoops Station, and Seek Thailand. All the shops I mentioned have physical shops, as well as online services which make it very easy for everyone to order a pair.
You seem to have a great variety of brands on your Instagram account - do you have any favourites?
Actually, this question is very hard as it is impossible for me to choose one model or one brand. So I would like to separate into my 3 favourite brands which are Asics, New Balance, and Mizuno. My favorite silhouettes are New Balance 990v4, Asics Gel Lyte III, and Mizuno Wave Rider 1
What is your favourite release of 2021 so far? Anything upcoming you are excited about?
New Balance 990v3 Bodega
Mizuno Wave Prophecy by Sorayama
Asics Gel Lyte III by SBTG and Limited edt “Monsoon Patrol” Black edition
Yamasura by AfewGoods
Kangaroos Rainbow Trout by Max and Bisso
What is the biggest grail in your collection and why?
I wish I could have a chance to get a sample pair of Asics Gel Lyte III Miami to complete the ECP pack since I already own the sample Knicks. My feet are the same size as Mr. RF, around US10-11 and now I also owned a sample pair of Homage and Cove in size US10.5
Make sure to follow Poko on Instagram