Ming Zhang, 26
Binghamton, NY, Cashier
Wearing: Bape, purchased at the Bape store in Soho for $200.
How many pairs of kicks do you own? 10.
How many does one need to be considered a collector? 30 or 40.
Would you camp out for a new release? I’d wait for Nike Air Yeezys or SBs.
Kicks or concert tix? I just like shoes better.
Julian Mitchell, 20
Wash Heights, NY, Student
Wearing: Nike Air Yeezy. I camped for two weeks outside of Foot Action, and got them for $210.
How many pairs of kicks do you own? 20.
What makes for “must buy” kicks? The color, style, comfort.
How long would you camp out for a new release? Two weeks was nothing. I’d camp out for longer.
Luke Spieldenner, 19
East Harlem, NY, DJ
Wearing: Nike Vandals. I traded a friend for these. I can’t walk into a sneaker store without leaving with a pair, so I try not to go in at all.
How many pairs of kicks do you own? 15.
What makes for “must buy” kicks? Freshness—the more original the better. Creative Recreation is my favorite brand.
Sonny Johnson, 20
Bronx, NY, Student
Wearing: Louis Vuitton, bought at the LV store for $980. The most I’ve ever paid was $1,700.
How many pairs of kicks do you own? 372.
What brands have the most street cred? Nike, Supra, retro Jordans.
Kicks or concert tix? Tickets! A concert’s a once in a lifetime experience. You can always get the sneakers.
Alex Caufield, 19
Syracuse, NY, Student
Wearing: Adidas, bought on Adidas.com for $75.
How many pairs of kicks do you own? Nine.
What makes for “must buy” kicks? Hype. The more outlandish they are, the more they’re hyped up.
What brand has the most street cred? Nike. They’ve mastered the simplistic style you can wear with everything.
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