Jonas Laplana - Filipino Sneakerhead Interview

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

I became a sneakerhead in college. It was still fresh in my mind when I bought my first pair of shoes with my own money at Sole Academy. It was an Air Max 1 and truly priceless to me!

I liked it so much that I wore it virtually every day. My love of sneakers has grown since then.

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

Vans and Janoski were popular during my college years. Those were my first go-to kicks. I had two pairs of Vans for my sneaker rotation at that time.

When I started working, my preference switched to classic and stylish designs like Jordan 1s and Dunk Lows.

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

I have Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG 'UNC,' Air Jordan 1 Low 'Dark Teal,' Air Jordan 1 Low 'Noble Red,' Dunk By You Low 'Smoke Grey,' and Waffle One.

I'm currently looking at the Nike Invincible 3 for my running and comfort shoes.

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

When I get a new pair of sneakers, I feel like a completely different person.

It's as though a new version of myself has been unleashed. I'm excited to capture a picture whilst wearing it.

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

I believe a collaboration between the Jordan 1 Low and the adidas UltraBoost would be phenomenal. The timeless look of the Jordan 1 and the comfort of the Ultraboost will be perfect for sneakerheads.

This pair is suitable for wearing all day without causing discomfort.

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

I prefer Nike Essentials, Uniqlo, and Zara.

I adore their simple and straightforward designs. The quality is excellent, and the pricing is reasonable.‍

What is your ultimate holy grail sneaker that you have not acquired so far?

My dream pair is the Fragment Design x Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Retro Low. I've always loved the color combination of black and blue.

With this, I recently purchased the Jordan 1 Low OG UNC, also known as the "poor man's TS Fragments." That is my favorite pair for the time being.

I'm hoping to get my dream pair at the right moment.

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

My everyday essentials include my leather bag, wallet, watch, and wedding ring.

I may forget about other things, but not these, especially my wedding ring hehe.

Where can people find you on social media?

Instagram: @jonaslaplana

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