Filipino Sneakerhead and Dancer: Dunhill Mark Cantos

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

It all started in the last 2021 when my mom bought me one of my dream shoes, the Air Jordan 1 High. I did not expect that at all because we were supposed to get other shoes, and I just asked her if we could check in to Jordan Manila. After that day, I started to value and appreciate sneakers more. It also triggered me to collect more sneakers ever since!

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

It was the trend of Air Force 1 for me because I remember that was when I bought a pair of shoes with my own money. That shoe is very personal to me, and it is my favorite shoe whenever I dance because of its comfort and design.

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

Honestly, I feel more confident whenever I wear a pair of kicks, and I am also very grateful to have them. When you open the box, the smell of the new shoes is kind of a new therapy!

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

My current favorite creator is Jeff Ong of the Philippines. His style and interest in sneakers inspired me to find my style and explore more in the world of fashion. He is also a Multi-Media Arts student back in college, similar to my course next term.

Regarding the brands, I am proud to say that most of my favorite brands are Filipino - Anakainoo, Charlotte Folk, DBTK, and more. I want to support our local products and brands because I know Filipino people are creative enough to go international.

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

As a Filipino, I want a collaboration with an empowered Filipino artist and Nike. Whenever I heard the word empowered, the first person that came to mind was Nadine Lustre. Her personality and advocacy have an impact on every Filipino. She is also one of the ambassadors of Nike Philippines.

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

Currently, my go-to shoes would be the Air Force 1 Low that I used in dance class, my Air Jordan 1 Gore-Tex, and Nike Dunk Low Retro White Black Panda. Their versatility and comfort made my daily life easier.

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

I want a pair of Jordan x Travis Scott Air Jordan 1 Low OG sneaker because I am obsessed with brown and neutral colors. I also believe that this pair would boost my confidence!

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

Aside from kicks, one of my daily essentials is a cap. It is also reminds me of my dad because of he uses it every day, and sometimes I borrow it and don't bring it back. Cap is also useful to cover messy hair, which is also advantage me who is lazy to style my hair from time to time LOL.

Where can people find you on social media?

Instagram: @dunhillmcantos

YouTube: Dunhill M.

TikTok: @dunhillmcantos

Do you have a sneaker collection that you wish to showcase or share with the world? Or maybe you have some hyped deadstock that you wish to sell. Join Ox Street as an early community member in our beta stage today and get $25 SGD off your first order (while discount slots last).