Abdul Wafi Asyraf - Malaysian Sneakerhead Interview

What was the moment you first got drawn to sneakers, and which pair of sneakers triggered your passion?

It all started 12 years ago when I fell in love with the Air Max 90 because of how elegant it was and how comfortable the midsole felt when I wore it. This moment sparked my interest in sneakers.

My first pair was the Air Max 90 'Valentino Rossi', which I purchased with my own money. This pair was also my first love, which drew me more into the sneakers scene.

What’s one moment or trend in the history of sneaker culture that resonates with you?

Even though I can't skate, it was during the peak of the SB Dunk seasons. The enthusiasm and energy make me want to learn more about the sneakers culture.
Because the internet was not as widespread back then as it is now, we don't know much about sneaker culture.

Then comes the streetwear trend, which resonates with the sneakers culture, making the scenes bigger and wider, causing me to fall deeper into this scene and culture. I really enjoy it!

What are some of the current pairs of sneakers in your rotation?

My current sneakers rotation are: New Balance 550, New Balance 20002R 'Protection Pack', ASICS EX 89, The HUNDRED% x SneakerLAH x Asics GEL-Lyte III 'Teh Tarik', adidas NMD Runner PK 'OG' 2015, NMD Triple Black Airmax 90 Triple Black, and UltraBoost 1.0 DNA 'Triple Black.'

Please describe how it feels to you when you get and wear a new pair of kicks?

It's always the same feeling whenever I buy new sneakers; they make me feel excited and satisfied. I'm also addicted to the smell of a new pair of sneakers every time I buy them!

What is one sneaker collaboration that doesn’t exist, but you wish/think should exist?

I wish I could see the collaboration between Puma and Yeezy. We've already seen the collaboration between Ye with Nike and adidas. So, why not give it a Puma touch this time?

What are some of your favorite creators/designers or brands and why?

I am a huge fan of Hiroshi Fujiwara's brand, Fragment. How he creates every brand he collaborates with is popular and trendy.

He is, without a doubt, the godfather of streetwear culture!

What is your ultimate holy grail sneaker that you have not managed to acquire so far?

The entire 'The Ten' collection by Virgil Abloh.

‍Other than kicks, what are some of your daily essentials or treasured items?

All of my tees and my G-shock collection.

Where can people find you on social media?

Instagram: @wafiasyraf_