Filipino Sneakerhead and Air Jordan 1 Guy: Ayem Em Pastor

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

I remember when I was in Grade 1 (1996), my father used to collect NBA cards and most of them are Michael Jordan. That is the beginning of everything. From watching him playing then appreciating his shoes. The pair that triggers me with this passion is the Jordan 1 Breds/Banned. “The one that started it all”

What are some of your observations or personal stories when it comes to collecting kicks?

Since I am still a student and cannot afford to buy sneakers for myself back then, I just officially started collecting when I graduated and got my first job. It wasn't easy, but still makes me very happy because I could cop some sneakers with some money that I earned myself.

However, cop a pair now and then are different because sneaker games has evolved a lot - and it has some pros and cons itself.

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

Since I am a Jordan 1 guy, most of the pairs in my rotation are Jordan 1 Travis Scott (Mocha), Jordan 1 A Ma Maniére, Jordan 1 Banned 2016, Jordan 1 Low Travis Scott x Fragment, Jordan 1 Bredtoe, Jordan 1 University Blue, and Jordan 1 Obsidian.

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

It will always feels like heaven. Nothing beats the sweet aroma smell of a new and fresh from the box pair of kicks. Especially if you really work hard to snag that pair. It is very fulfilling to UNDS them.

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

Since Jordan 1 is my favorite sneaker, I love to see Sean Wotherspoon create his masterpiece on it. The Jordan 1 Wotherspoon. I love what he did on the Airmax 97/1 and I think it will be exciting to see how it will look like in the Jordan 1s.

What do you think is the most under-rated pair?

The Yeezy Boost 380 Calcite. My favorite colorway of 380s. It is a very clean colorway plus the glow in the dark feature is spectacular. It is a very comfortable sneaker with a sock like feel.

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

Aside from Off-White and Union LA, currently, I began to love A Ma Maniére. One of the major reasons is the execution of their collaboration with Jordan Brand. They really did a good job. From the story up to the smallest detail  impressed me and that’s how I appreciate the brand as a whole. 

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

The Air Jordan 1 High Off-White Chicago.

What are some of your favorite sneaker related content creators?

Carlo Ople, Mr. Foamer Simpson, Seth Fowler, Jay The Sneaker Guy, TonyD2Wild, Qrew TV and The DNA Show.

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

I do have a small collection of funko pops. I just started collecting.

Where can people find you on social media?

YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/AYEMSNKRS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ayemwhoayemsince1990

Instagram: https://instagram.com/ayemem23

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