Filipino Sneakerhead and Digital Marketer: Garett Flores

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

I could clearly remember how fascinated I was with how my papa would wear his chunky rubber shoes for all types of events and celebrations back in the early 2000s. He was particular with the color and style he wanted. He'd always tell me to always go with anything black or white because his #ProTip was that either of the colors could be a good match and could go with literally everything. "Just be more careful with the whites," while cracking a joke, pointing out how un-white his pair was.

In the same years, I remember rocking a couple of NBs back in grade school —I think that's where it started.

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

Looking back at the hundreds, if not thousands, of popular sneaker releases from when I was young —when most people were all mad and ODed on themselves with J Crews and Common Projects sometime in the late aughts; meanwhile, I was sporting some NBs. I think New Balance has been a force to be reckoned with in the world of sneakers.

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

Well, I feel extra confident, but sometimes in my head, I feel like collecting more of the same pair, hoping they also come in different colors.

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

Top of mind is Balenciaga because, hello? Have you seen their runways and collections lately? I don't think that needs some explanation anymore. Demna knows the brand's DNA to the core and soul.

I'm also a huge fan of Loewe, Ludovic de Saint Sernin, Bottega Veneta, Prada, Acne Studios, and Avavav.

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

Tough one! But I love the creative direction of the Museum of Peace and Quiet as of late because I think they embody my aesthetic and represent my love for wellness.
Collab-wise, I think designer brands like Prada, Off-White, or Balenciaga could be some oddly interesting collab options for MOPQ.

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

My shoes were currently revolving around NB 530, NB 990 v5, Air Monarch IV, some Yeezys, Nike Double Air, CDG, Wang, Le Fleur, Vans x Museum of Peace and Quiet, and sometimes when I feel the need to be extra, a couple of Triple S.

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

Oh! Balenciaga X-Pander Silver for sure! Runner-up is Gucci x Adidas Gazelle, while Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 is just a dream.

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

I'm a tote bag guy, and of course, shades and some good ol' hoodies!

Where can people find you on social media?

Instagram: @garettflores

TikTok: @garettflores

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