Zion Wuxinyi: Filipino Creative Director Interview

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

I got into sneakers back in the early 2010s. I remember saving up my allowance to get a pair of Red Dunk Highs early on and beating that pair to death.

Back then, sneaker culture wasn't mainstream, and everyone asked where I would get my sneakers. It was always nice to be different from others, and sneakers were part of that identity. That was the early eras of SBs - mainly Dunks, Janoskis, and P. Rods.

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

I remember the early days when people used to line up for sneakers. It became a cultural thing where people met up and hung out, sharing stories and even meeting all kinds of people who loved the culture.

Strangers over time became regular friends, and we are bonding over sneakers!

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

Having a great new pair of sneakers just hit differently. It's like a whole new vibe opens up with bigger possibilities of new outfits and pairings you could do with a new fresh pair.

That's what I love about it, switching up old and new things and turning them into everyday styles!

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

Top of mind, Stussy would be one of my favorite brands due to the substance and impact it has on streetwear and hip-hop culture. Compared to other brands like Supreme, they get to be a bit more on the lowkey side and have a great history. They stay relevant but keep a low profile, which resonates with me.

Another great designer is Ronnie Fieg with Kith. His passion for the craft, creative direction, and attention to detail is just on another level. From the seasonal Kith pieces to the biggest collaborations, he's just so amazing at what he does. I really wish I could get my hands on more Kith pieces in the future.

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

I'd love to see a Dior x New Balance collaboration. I think New Balance has been doing a lot of good heavy hitters the past years with Teddy Santis as their creative director, and with Dior having Kim Jones as the artistic director at Dior Men's.

I feel like the two working together in a pair would be such a great combo with their style and visions.

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

I'm really heavy on Jordan 1s and several New Balance silhouettes; it's a good range to style clothes in. But, I'd say I have a few other one-off pairs in the collection too. Right now, more than the brand or silhouette, I've been looking for more pairs that look good with what I wear.

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

Actually, my holy grail was a pair of Chicago Jordan 1s. Fortunately, I was able to get my hands on them a few years back; that's a pair I'm sure never going to let go of. From then on, I never really wanted any other pair that bad to consider them a holy grail.

I'd say a pair I wish I had but don't really aim to acquire is the Dior Jordan 1s. For sure, it's a great piece of sneaker history, and with the neutral tones, construction, and balance of street and luxury, it's for sure a pair worth having.

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

Besides sneakers, my other essentials would probably be my laptop for my design work, my surf skate/skateboard, and a daily cup of coffee.

I don't really need much to be happy, and I feel like, as a person aiming to be a minimalist has helped in many ways. (Despite the number of pairs of sneakers in my collection.)

Kidding aside, even with two pairs or 100 pairs of sneakers, I think what's important is that you're contented and happy with what you have 😊

Where can people find you on social media?  

Instagram: @zionwuxinyi and @zw.creatives for my other passion and design. Feel free to check @the.platinum.brand for a streetwear clothing brand I run!