Ron Flips - Filipino Rapper Interview

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

Since childhood, hip-hop has been the world in which I grew up and lived, and basketball and sneakers are a big part of hip-hop culture. I admire Jordan when it comes to basketball; I followed and studied him since his rookie year.

In 2013, when the Air Jordan 1 Breds went retro, as a fan of MJ, I immediately bought them because they were one of Jordan's most controversial and first shoes. When I first saw and touched them in person, this is when I told myself that I would start collecting shoes.

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

Nike and Virgil Abloh released "The Ten" project in 2017. Since that project, sneaker collaborations have become more popular, as streetwear and luxury wear merged. The so-called Hypebeast trend is in vogue now.

Almost every sneaker collaboration is increasing in price, as everyone wants to own a hype shoe.

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

My favorite silhouette of all time is the Air Jordan 1 High. It's a staple in my rotation, with more than half of my shoes being J1 Highs.

I also sometimes wear Nike Dunk Lows and Yeezy Foam Runners because they are very comfortable on my feet.

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

I feel like something is being added to myself. I will see something new in myself that I haven't seen yet.

It will add to the image I want people to see of who and what I am because, for me, what you wear and how you dress reflects your personality.

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

The Air Jordan 3 is one of my favorite designs by Jordan Brand, and Virgil Abloh is one of my most admired designers. Since Virgil passed away in 2021, I have not seen any designs or leaks from him for the silhouette. I still wish there was a collaboration, but it's unclear what will happen.

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

As a rapper, I love every Travis Scott sneaker collaboration. Aside from the dope design, he always represents hip-hop culture. I also appreciate the A Ma Maniere and Jordan collaboration because of its premium quality.

What is your ultimate holy grail sneaker that you have acquired so far?

OFF-WHITE x Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG 'Chicago'. Besides its high price, it is also challenging to find in my size. This is my favorite among all the Off-White and Nike/Jordan collaborations.

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

Cap. I love collecting caps, such as vintage caps, dad hats, snapbacks, etc. It's also an extra bit of swag for me. You'll be enchanted because they're really beautiful.

Where can people find you on social media?

Instagram: @ronflips