Sandeep Singh Bhatia - Indian Sneakerhead Interview

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

I was always a sneaker guy, and I used to look at what people were wearing on their feet and search for sneakers online to learn more about them. My love for sneakers developed even more when I moved to Singapore in 2018.

One day, I saw someone wearing the Yeezy 350s in the Beluga colorway, and it immediately caught my attention. I began researching Yeezys and Kanye West, and the Yeezy 350's soon became one of my favorite shoes, and there was no turning back.

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

Apart from sneakers, I am highly interested in music. I cherish how artists, especially Kanye West and Travis Scott, sometimes pair some of the most organized sneakers with a cool wardrobe. It makes me want to copy them, but sadly, my hometown didn't know much about sneakers or how to get these special ones.

However, I now have a better understanding of sneaker culture and sneakers. For me, the most significant element in your wardrobe is the shoes you wear since it expresses your personality.

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

Some of my favorite pairs in rotation include the Yeezy 350 'Beluga,' Nike Concepts x Air Max 1 SP 'Mellow,' Yeezy Foam Runner 'Stone Sage,' Nike Why So Sad? x Dunk Low SB 'The Predatory Bird,' Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG 'Bleached Coral,' A Ma Maniere x Air Jordan 1 High OG 'Airness,' Crocs Salehe Bembury x Pollex Clog 'Kuwata,' and Yeezy Slides 'Bone.'

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

The feeling of getting a new pair of sneakers, especially when they're in retail, is always similar to how it felt as a child when you got your favorite chocolate or ice cream.

It brings me immense happiness, and even before I get the pair in my hand, I'll start looking for outfits to pair them with, so I can take new pictures and post them on Instagram.

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

I've always admired Kanye West and would want to see a Nike X SB Dunk Ye, a collaboration between Nike and Ye.

I really hope it happens one day, and it would be amazing to watch what Ye comes up with.

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

I would start out with my favorite creator, Kanye West. I also like his Yeezy 350 line and Foam Runner.

Ye is a cultural icon, in my opinion, because he has had a significant impact on hip-hop culture. He has always been someone who has invented something that has had a significant impact on the fashion industry and sneaker culture. Because of the level of detail in his designs, he always captures everyone's attention, and he always thinks beyond the box.

For the next creator, I've always admired Travis Scott's contributions to sneaker culture. His designs are full of details and polish, showing how a person can have a large impact on what they make and how influential they may be.

For example, changing the Nike reverse swoosh on all of his famous Nike sneakers sets them apart from the rest of the field.

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

A sneaker I'd love to have in my collection? There are actually two sneakers.

The first sneaker is the Fragment Design x Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Retro Low. The second pair would be the Nike Ben & Jerry's x Dunk Low SB 'Chunky Dunky.'

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

My iPhone, iPad Pro, AirPods Pro, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Apple Watch are daily essentials.

Apart from sneakers, I enjoy using technology and playing video games in my free time.

Where can people find you on social media?

Instagram: @Sandeep_singhbhatia

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