Skip to main content

New Sneaker Kicks - Cortez, Air Force 1, Tiger 66 or Puma Suede

Gear Review

Building My Sneaker Collection

A journey toward curating the perfect rotation of classic basics.

~3
Years Timeline
$500
Budget
8
Total Pairs
Section I

Basic Sneaker Selection

There are so many options and choices in sneakers, and I want to build a simple collection of all the great basics. Here’s what I’m considering for the initial lineup:

 

  • →Converse — Chuck Taylor - All Stars White/Red Stripe
  • →Adidas — Superstar - White/Black Stripes
  • →Nike Cortez — White/Red Logo
  • →Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 — White/Red/Blue
  • →Nike Air Force 1 Low Cut — All White
  • →Puma Suede — Black/White Stripe
Color Distribution and Future Planning

I’m aiming for five white sneakers and one black shoe for the basics. However, I may reduce this count to three white and one black to simplify my collection.

Additional colorways will be handled by my two Onitsuka Tiger Serrano's (in Blue and Red). When they are retired, I’ll replace them with comparable shoes, likely a Burgundy Red New Balance and possibly all-black Converse, Adidas Superstar, or Air Force 1's.

Section II

Collection Timeline and Budget

I’m in no rush; it will likely take 2-3 years to fill out this collection since I already have ample shoes. I plan to buy something only when I'm ready to replace an existing pair, probably the Puma Suede's, as I need a new pair of black sneakers soon.

I estimate that the Air Force 1, Tiger 66, and Cortez will retail at full price, while the others often go on sale. I’ll budget accordingly, around $450-$550, particularly for the more expensive pairs.
Section III

Update: 7/4/2020 - Air Force 1 - OG White - Winner

I decided on my final pair of shoes for 2020, and it was a toss-up between the Nike Cortez and the Air Force 1's. After trying on both, I realized the Cortez didn't fit properly, and the build quality was not as good as the Onitsuka's.

The Air Force 1's, on the other hand, fit perfectly and both look and feel premium. I found them for $90. Rounding out my collection are four white shoes: Adidas Superstar, Converse All-Star, Converse EV3, and the Nike Air Force 1's. The final shoes in my collection are the Onitsuka Tiger Serrano's in Red and Blue, and finally, my black Puma Suede's. That’s more than enough shoes, and I’m limiting the Air Force 1's for special occasions.

Section IV

Update 2021 - Upping the Sneaker Game

I’ve decided to elevate my sneaker game and am now seeking out the Nike legends.

A work in progress: evolving a classic rotation one step at a time.
Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Sony MDR-ZX100 vs ZX-110 vs ZX-310 Series Headphones

Gear Review Budget Audio Face-off: Sony ZX Series Review Comparing the ZX-100, ZX-110, and ZX-310 for your everyday carry ~3 Models ~$10–$20 Price 2.5+ Years Longevity Table of Contents ① Build Quality ② Cost Comparison ③ Sound Quality ④ Overall Value ⑤ Upgrade Path Section I Build Quality The Sony ZX series headphones primarily feature a durable plastic construction. My ZX-100 has lasted over 2½ years, enduring countless tosses into my backpack and car without any issues. However, the lower-end ZX-100 and ZX-110 models have a significant downside: poor-quality earpads.   The Earpad Problem Over time, the earpads on the ZX-100 and ZX-110 disintegrate, leaving vinyl flakes that stick to your hair and ears. The ZX-310 comes with upgraded earpads that don't suffer from this problem — a clear win in the build department. Tip: If your earpads start to flake, it is a sign of material degradation; consider replacing the cushions or upgrading to a model with more durable synthetic lea...
9 comments
Read more

Casio G-Shock 5600 vs 6900 vs 9000

Gear Review Finding the Perfect Fit: My G-Shock Journey A deep dive into balancing form, function, and wrist presence. 4 Models Tested 2 Favorite Series 1 Non-negotiable Feature Table of Contents ① The Quest for Size ② Best Compromise: G9000 Mudman Series ③ Feature Needs: G/GW vs DW ④ The Lineup: Models at a Glance ⑤ Final Verdict: 5600 Wins Section I The Quest for Size After trying out several G-Shock models, I've developed a better sense of the specific features and design elements I appreciate most. While features are always a plus, my main priority is size. Here's how some of the models I've tried stack up. 5600 Series For overall size, the 5600 series stands out as a favorite due to its compact, comfortable form. It's slim, lightweight, and fits well on my wrist without being too bulky. Although the 6900 series provides the benefit of a well-placed front illumination button, the 5600 remains the ideal size for everyday wear.   Section II Best Compromise: G900...
Post a Comment
Read more

Casio MTD 1010 the $30 Submariner Homage

Diver-Style Watches  ·  Budget Horology Casio MTD-1010 Oyster Quartz  ·  Ref. MTD-1010-1AV The Best Budget Submariner Homage $30 eBay Price 41.5mm Case Size 10 ATM Water Resistance 20mm Lug Width If you're on the hunt for an affordable watch that channels the classic diver aesthetic of the Submariner, look no further than the Casio MTD-1010. Priced at around $30 on eBay, this model offers incredible value for anyone who loves a good deal.   Table of Contents ① Affordable Elegance ② Function Over Frills ③ Best Bang for Your Buck ④ Specs & Practical Tips Section I Affordable Elegance The MTD-1010 strikes a bala...
3 comments
Read more