I am a sneakerhead episode 226 - @pallasss
Hello, everyone. My name is Pallas. I'm originally from Indonesia but relocated to Germany about 17 years ago.
For how long have you been a sneakerhead?
Well, as long as I can remember, I have always loved sneakers. Of course, the things that I like have changed over the years.
Back then, at the beginning of the 2000s, I was (and still am, actually) a big fan of pop-punk culture (Blink-182, Sum 41, you name it), Jackass, and the like. This genre is closely tied to skateboard culture. At that time, my best friend (shout out to Denny), who had already started skating, had the newest Vans Geoff Rowley XLT. He introduced me to the world of skateboarding and skate shoes. It's safe to say that my obsession with sneakers started there.
Do you remember what your first pair of sneakers that you really cared about was?
For sure, it was the Asics Gel Lyte V "Volcano" by Ronnie Fieg that I discovered while browsing through Instagram in 2013. This pair changed my collecting direction towards retro running silhouettes.
How many pairs do you currently have? Are you planning on keeping that number steady or growing/decreasing it?
Last time I checked, I have around 40 pairs, with roughly half of them still in deadstock (DS) condition. Officially, I don't plan to increase the number, but there are so many good sneakers out there. Therefore, if I come across one with a good price, it's hard to say no.
Are there any brands in particular that you enjoy, and why is that?
If you had asked me this question 5-6 years ago, I would've said Asics, but my current favorites are New Balance, because of the comfort, and Clarks, since I think Clarks offers the best silhouettes for people who are getting more mature and don't necessarily want to wear items targeted at youngsters. The crepe sole is also very comfortable!
Do you usually buy sneakers in physical stores or online?
Living in a small village, online shopping is the only way to go. Thanks to free trade within the EU, the possibilities are huge, and I am very grateful for that.
Have you ever needed to pay a resell premium for a pair of sneakers?
Thank God, no. In such cases, I usually pass on it or trade something from my collection to get my hands on that pair.
Have there been any releases in 2024 that have caught your attention so far?
So far, only the NB 991v2 has caught my attention because it is a new silhouette with the latest cushioning technology. I have to try them!
Do you already know what your next purchase will be?
Yeah, it will be a pair of NB 991v2 as soon as they have a colorway that I love. Hopefully, my wife won't mind.
What is your favourite pair in your collection?
It must be the AM 1/97 Sean Wotherspoon. Its conception, colorway, and storytelling aspect are elements that not many pairs possess these days.
If you could only wear one pair for the rest of 2024, which would it be and why?
Wow, that's a tough question because I couldn't stick with just one pair for longer than two weeks before. But if I had to choose, it would probably be the NB 990v3 'Steel Blue'. Its simple colorway makes it easy to combine with most outfits, whether for the office or casual occasions, and it looks good with any long pants, jeans, or shorts.
Make sure to follow Pallas on Instagram: