Nike SB x Jordan Brand is happening.

After the much-anticipated release of the Nike SB x Diamond Supply Dunk Highs earlier this month, it seemed like the hype for Nike SB would die down pretty quickly. But in true Nike fashion, they pull out another surprise that's sure to get people talking: Nike SB x Jordan Brand.

The Sneakers That Got Away.

Every sneakerhead will always have a pair (or more) that's managed to elude their collection. Some people actively seek them out, while folks like me choose to wallow in regret, hoping for miracle to come in the form of a re-release. Out of all the kicks I've wanted to cop over the years, there's only one pair that I've been hating myself for not picking up despite having a golden opportunity to get them. So if you're interested, now's the time for a little story.

The year was 2008, and I was in my junior year in college. Me and my buddy Justin had stumbled on this sporting goods store near Eastwood that sold branded shoes and apparel at marked down prices. Back then, sneaker collecting hadn't evolved into the monster it is today, so it was still pretty commonplace to see boxes of premium release Nikes and Air Jordans stacked up in stores like those. After walking around to check the selection, I ended up trying to decide between two Air Jordan retros - "Green Bean" 5s and Aqua 8s.

At the time, all I wanted sneakers that were really loud, so the 5s and their all-3M build fit the bill more than the Aquas did. So I ended up getting them, and prided myself on how I was able to pick them up for way under retail. But in the days after my purchase, I couldn't stop thinking about the Aquas and their ugly-beautiful appearance. After some time when I had saved up money to get them, they were all gone and I haven't found them ever since. I also ended up selling the Green Bean 5s to my cousin (also named Justin) after only wearing them once.

The easy moral of the story here would be to never squander a golden opportunity to pick up some shoes. But in truth, I think the real lesson to be learned here is that tastes change, so when you're looking to pick up some shoes, think long term. Can you see yourself wearing them long after the hype for a certain shoe or style disappears? Then by all means, go and pick them up.

Anybody out there with a story to share on a pair they missed out on and regret everyday? Let me know. I'll just be here, waiting on the Aqua 8s to re-release.

Will The Nike Kobe 9 Hype Train Slow Down?

The Masterpiece

The amount of hype that led up to the Kobe 9 Elite has been incredible. Leading up to the release of the Kobe 9 Elite was the Kobe Prelude Pack, an amazing collection of shoes that drew inspiration from art and pivotal moments in The Black Mamba's career. And for the most part, it looks like the hype has paid off, with resale values skyrocketing for all shoes in the Prelude Pack, as well as the first two Kobe 9 colorways.

"Maestro/Devotion"

As of today, two styles of the Kobe 9 Elite have hit the Philippines, and both have sold out in stores. The first to drop was the "Masterpiece", a stunning high top that sports a beautiful multicolor tapestry of a upper made out of Nike's Flyknit material. And a few hours ago, the NBA All-Star Game release known as the "Maestro" sold out as well. In terms of sales, things are looking good for the Kobe line, despite Vino not having played a single NBA game in his new shoes. But there's a part of me that keeps thinking that the spike in sales has a lot to do with the insane hype and the limited nature of both releases so far.

From L-R: "Perspective", "Detail", "Inspiration" 

Three new Kobe 9 Elite colorways are slated to drop in March, beginning with the "Inspiration" (3/1), followed shortly by the "Perspective" (3/8), and the "Detail" towards the end of the month (3/22). All three colorways are said to be General Release, which will give people a better chance of picking up pairs and limiting the chances of their resale value to go as high as they've been so far. And as incredible as Nike's efforts have been to send the Kobe 9 hype into overdrive, I do hope it starts to slow down soon. Having to deal with resellers and spending more than you should on a pair of shoes is rarely an ideal scenario because all it means is that your chance to walk in a store for a pair of shoes you like was taken from you.

A Review of the 2014 White/Infrared Air Jordan 6.

Last weekend, Jordan brand kicked off the 23rd year of the Air Jordan 6 by dropping two colorways of the celebrated high-top. The first was the Infrared 23, which keeps with the dominantly red makeup we've come to see from the "Raging Bull" 5s and the "Toro Bravo" 4s. The second one was the White/Infrared Air Jordan 6, which was the first colorway to release when the shoe originally made its debut in 1991.

Really digging the box.

The 6 is revered in the Air Jordan line because it was the shoe that MJ was rocking when he won his first NBA, capping off a year where he also won the scoring title and the league MVP award.  Now I was a year old in 1991 so it's safe to say I was pretty oblivious to all this history as it unfolded. But thanks to this year's release, I've got myself a tangible link to the start of one of basketball's bygone eras.

Upon first glance, I immediately had to compare it the original release. In terms of shape, the 2014 release is as close to the OG as it can possibly be. The shoe's defining elements have been faithfully recreated - visible air soles, the Porsche-inspired heel tab, and the two-holed rubber tongue that's been ripped off by a lot of other sneakers ever since.

The only point of contention most sneakerheads have with this year's release is the infrared color of the midsole. A lot of internet chatter bemoans it for being a little too pink. However, if you compare the 2014 model to both the 2010 retro and the 1991 original, you'll find that the infrared of this year's release comes closer to the OG's color than the last retro did, and I think it looks all the better for it. So you might want to think twice about calling it "Infrapink".

Overall, I think the sneaker is a solid first salvo in a year that's gonna be peppered with hot 6s. I'm sure heads are already chomping at the bit to pick up the Carmines in May, as well as the Black/Infrared version that's a favorite of Kanye West. Congrats to everyone who scored a pair on release day! But if you're looking to pick up a pair, I suggest going up a half a size than what you normally wear. Happy hunting!

Awesome Philippine Sneaker Groups to Join on Facebook.

A big part of my daily Facebook routine involves checking out what's new on a number of sneaker groups, both local and international. Though the main point of most groups is the whole buying and selling aspect of the game, I try to keep a look out for interesting discussions, insider info, and the occasional good deal.

Below are a handful of Philippine sneaker groups that I think are definitely worth joining in. Check them out for yourself, but always remember that the internet is public domain. Act like you would if you were encountering the people you interact with in a real world setting. Don't be the asshole that hides behind fake names just to troll people. Be nice, do your research, and if you're looking to buy stuff, be wary of scammers.

Awesome cover design by Ira Cordero

1. Sole Slam Manila 
Member Count - 21,529 as of 2/16/2014

If you're in the know when it comes to Philippine sneaker culture, Sole Slam Manila should be a familiar name. Antonio Aguirre Jr. founded what I think has become an institution in world sneaker culture. It's not just me who thinks so. Check out what The Shoe Game had to say. In fact, the group's just the tip of a pretty big-ass iceberg. Aside from a strong social media presence, Sole Slam Manila also has a legit brick-and-mortar store and a yearly event that's at par with many sneaker conventions around the world.

Expect lots of buying and selling, discussions, and pretty much anything about sneakers in general. I also appreciate the fact that the group's admins keep it as well maintained as a 21k strong group can possibly be.

Join HERE 

2. Kobe Section PH 
Member Count - 14,399 as of 2/16/2014

Kobe Bryant is without a doubt of the most recognized figures in basketball the world over. His following here in the Philippines is a pretty devoted lot, so it's no surprise that his sneakers are usually well received over on this side of the world. Save for the occasional errant posts (iPhones for sale in a sneaker group, really?), you'll find a good amount of release info, sneaker hookups, and a good amount of buying and selling of pretty much anything involving The Black Mamba.



Join HERE

3. New Balance PHL
Member Count - 3097 as of 2/16/2014

Retro runners are going to be big this year and New Balance is one of the brands that's been leading the charge. The group may not be huge in number yet, but you'll find a ton of good deals, release info and a whole lot of NBs that weren't released locally.

Join HERE

4. Strictly Off The Wall (Vans Talk Philippines)
Member Count - 3,785 as of 2/16/2014

Lots of deals, discussions, and release info on a load of Vans silhouettes. Arguably the best local Vans group online.

Join HERE

5. Sneaker Beaters Club
Member Count - 22,247 as of 2/16/2014

This group has a pretty interesting set of posting rules. Most of what you'll find here may be secondhand stuff, but there's always a good chance on coming up on a good deal here.

Join HERE 

6. Heat Hub PH
Member Count - 220 as of 2/16/2014

Okay, this one's a pretty shamless plug. I created this group for people to share the sneakers they wear. No selling here, just discussions and lots and lots of shots of really sick kicks. Feel free to join us HERE

There's a lot of other groups out there. Some really broad, and some that cater to niche audiences. If you know a group that should get some promotion, or if you've started a group as well, let me know in the comments section and I'll make sure to check it out!

Nike Basketball "NOLA Gumbo League" Collection

Celebrating the unique culture of New Orleans - the venue of this year's NBA All Star Game, Nike Basketball is releasing a unique collection featuring the LeBron 11, KD6, and Kobe 9 Elite.

Personally, I'm really curious to see each shoe up close. The glow in the dark materials will certainly turn heads, but what's amazing for me is that the rich and unique designs of each shoe are what I'd say a fitting tribute to the vibrant culture of The Big Easy.

LeBron 11 "Gator King"

It can be argued that there isn't any better symbol of power and protection in New Orleans than the alligator. So it was only fitting for LeBron James' latest shoe to take influence from it. The "Gator King" is a fearless expression of both royalty and power. Hand-drawn patterns make up the Hyperposite areas of the shoes once it glows in the dark. Add that with majestic hues of deep purple, greens, and gold and you've got a shoe truly fit for a king.

Kobe 9 Elite "Maestro" 

Kobe Bryant may be meticulous when it comes to preparation, but he's also an expert when it comes to just going with the flow of the game. Deciphering its nuances, and coming up with moments of brilliance from sheer improvisation. Much like the great jazz musicians who came from the birthplace of the genre. Featuring brass accents in the upper, what really sets off the Kobe 9 Elite is the glow-in-the-dark outsole that comes to life at night, just when jazz clubs start to get into the swing of things. It's a shame we won't be seeing these on the feet of the Black Mamba come All Star Weekend though. 

KD6 "Illusion"

Inspired by the magic of New Orleans, fluid hand-drawn patterns on the shoe's upper pay tribute to the mesmerizing game of Kevin Durant. Big Chucky defies all perceptions of a near seven-footer, an illusion that leaves opposing teams scrambling to deal with his limitless range and on-court versatility. And finishing off the shoe is a special glow-in-the-dark outsole.

See that glow. 

The Nike Basketball "NOLA Gumbo League" Collection will make its way to retailers come February 14, so a lot of sneakerheads better start thinking about those Valentine's Day plans.

Think you can do something better than any or all shoes in the collection? Well now you can try! " Gumbo League" options are available on Nike ID for a limited time only!

Locally, there's no definite release date or set of mechanics as of yet, but I'll make sure to update once I get wind of anything so check back when you can!

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UPDATE 2/14/14

Save for a bit of a delay with the Kobe 9 "Maestro" release, 2 shoes that are part of the Nike "NOLA Gumbo League" Collection is dropping today (2/14/14) at Titan Shops+Webstore!

Prices are as follows:

Nike KD VI "Illusion" - P6995

Nike Lebron 11 "Gator King" - P9495

Nike Kobe 9 Elite "Maestro" - P9995 Coming Soon.

Nike Air Tech Challenge 2 "Hot Lava"

Photo from Sole Academy

Andre Agassi made me like tennis. In a sport characterized by order and elegance, Agassi led a revolution. Not only was the dude just plain mean on the court, everything about him was just a complete antithesis to how tennis was at the time.

Those midsoles look familiar? 

His playing days may be behind him, but Agassi's legacy lives on not only in the minds of tennis fans, but also on the feet of sneakerheads. Thanks to his re-inking with Nike last year, a number of Agassi's most popular signature shoes will re-release. Among these are the classic "Hot Lava" Air Tech Challenge IIs which have been selling out in other parts of the world. Fortunately, we'll all be getting a chance to cop as Sole Academy is serving these up via raffle this Saturday, February 8!

Check below for the details.

FEB 8 (SAT) 12NN
SRP: 6,195
SIZES: 8/8.5/9/9.5/10/10.5/11/11.5/12

*RAFFLE MECHANICS: ( KATIPUNAN & ALABANG )

1 raffle stub for every person who comes to SA on saturday
2 raffle stubs Academy Members (just show A-card)
4 raffle stubs for guests who come in their OG Tech challenge shoes.

So if you've managed to keep a pair of Tech Challenges in great condition through the years, this Saturday might be a great time to bring them back out! 

Adidas Mutombo

Photo from Titan 22

Sometimes, you really can't have it all. A few entries back, I was ranting about Adidas and the absence of the Mutombo on the shelves of their stores. Then yesterday I scroll through my Instagram feed and lo and behold, Titan 22 puts up a pic announcing that the Mutombo in its re-launch colorway is finally available in their Two Parkade shop.

It's better late than never, I guess as the Adidas Mutombo was one of the best retro basketball shoes to re-release last year. As far as retros go, these are pretty faithful to the original, from the African patterns, the shield logo, and Mt. Mutombo's number 55 on the side.

Had it been on a different month, I would have been all over this release. But February is stacked with a slew of solid releases as this month marks the debut of the Kobe 9 Elite as well as return of the Air Jordan 6. I've planned on targeting the previously mentioned pairs so barring any miracles, it looks like the fates have denied my chances of picking a pair up, complete with the signature Mutombo finger wag thrown in just to salt my wounds. But if you're looking to get in on the action, head on to Titan Two Parkade and score yours for P5995!

Nike SB x Diamond Supply Co. "Tiffany" Dunk High

Photo via Kicks On Fire

Back in 2005, a tie-up between Nike Skateboarding and Diamond Supply Co. resulted in the "Tiffany Diamond" SB Dunk Lows, which to this day remains to be one of the most sought after sneakers among collectors. And next month, after tons of speculation, Nike SB and Diamond are teaming up once again to release the much anticipated high-cut version of their first collab shoe.

Photo via Highsnobiety

Don't get me wrong, the Tiffany Diamond Dunks had such an undeniable effect not only in the world of sneakers, but in street culture as well. The hype that built around and after its release marked a watershed moment where more and more people started to pay attention to the world of streetwear. But in the 9 years that followed, a high-cut version of a previously released shoe is that's coming out?

At this point I'm quite sure this'll be an unpopular opinion, but honestly, I can't help but feel a little let down with the forthcoming release. I was expecting something totally new, some fresh concept that takes inspiration from diamonds. Hope Diamonds, Black Diamonds, Blood Diamonds, whatever. For all the hype, I was looking to see something that would its own trail within Nike and Diamond Supply lore, and not some re-hash that feels lazy given the stratospheric levels of success its predecessor reached. Again, I'm not trying to hate on Diamond Supply or Nike. I love the Tiffany Diamond Dunks. Given a chance, I'd have a pair in rotation, without a doubt. But I can't help feeling like me and the general sneaker collecting public could have gotten something a little better for waiting so long.

But who am I kidding. It's a Nike SB and Diamond shoe. It'll probably sell out faster than I can say "Nick Tershay".

There's nothing much else to say really. Anyone familiar with the original will know the colorway, the faux croc skin accents and that chrome swoosh that sets them all off. They're absolutely beautiful, and personal feelings aside, I can't judge you for liking them. I'm not looking to get a pair, but I do hope the distribution is wide enough for everybody who missed out on the originals to get a fair chance to cop at retail come February 8, 2014.

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Check this entry back for more details pertaining to when and where you can pick up a pair!