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Living a Creative Life

August 10, 2024

Everything can be creative depending on how it’s viewed. People who deem themselves as “not creative” are placing self-restrictions that often hinder their true creative ability. The more we tell ourselves something, the more we start to believe it regardless of if the statement is true or not. Living a creative life is essential for a long-lasting life full of growth and opportunity.

Creative Life: Appreciating the Journey

Creativity has no destination. Creative efforts are constantly evolving, changing, and adapting. Nothing is stagnant in a creative mind; there cannot be self-inflicted limitations throughout the journey.

Someone who calls themselves a creative quickly finds out that creativity is never-ending. There may be times where creative thoughts come freely while other times may feel like nothing comes to mind without extra conscious effort. Living a creative life requires balance in everything. There must be time to recharge and take breaks while maintaining an optimal level of creative production.

Creativity comes and goes and often frustrates creative individuals more than they would like. Ideas and visions come when we don’t force them into our creative minds. Living a creative life is about finding a balance between times of high creativity and creative block.

Creativity and Productivity

Nobody can be creative and productive 24/7. Humans never have been and never will be robots. Creativity and productivity aren’t infinite. An individual’s energy is constantly being pulled in a thousand different directions. Even when someone wants to sit down and create something, their focus and energy might be elsewhere besides their creative endeavor.

Especially in Western cultures, people are expected to be productive all the time. Rest is viewed as “bad” even though it’s necessary for humans to rest and recharge on a regular basis. Even the most productive and successful individuals in the world have to find a balance between work and rest. The same goes for creativity and productivity.

Just because someone may exude high levels of creativity doesn’t necessarily mean they are always functioning at a high level of productivity and vice versa. A creative life will never be creative all the time and definitely won’t be productive 100% of the time. Life throws curveballs- both positive and negative- which may steer away even those with highest work ethics and levels of self-discipline humanly possible.

There is No Answer

Being creative doesn’t always lead to finished products or outcomes as initially expected; creativity may bring answers or may bring no answers at all. The fast-paced world we live in unfairly expects creatives to have all of the answers on a whim. However, true creatives know their efforts may or may not bring them the returns they want and/or expect. Life brings countless things outside of our control; we cannot have every answer at every time we want to have them.

Living a creative life isn’t about being creative 24/7 and having all of the answers. Instead, it’s about making the most of one’ creative abilities using the appropriate tangible and intangible resources readily available.

Creativity has no beginning or end point. A painter may start a particular painting only to realize their creativity can be used more efficiently in different capacities. At the same time, a creative entrepreneur may spend too much time worrying about starting a business that they miss a wide open opportunity to succeed. There is no “end goal” when someone lives a creative life. Creativity is all around us when we open our minds and realize the possibilities of our own energy and abilities.

Anyone can be creative. It doesn’t take someone to be an artist before being creative. Start by being creative now and thinking creatively without worrying about labels all the time. Living a creative life requires an appreciation of creativity all around- in nature, buildings, sneakers, sports, art, and just about anything else in life that can be changed or designed in countless ways.

Best Nike and Jordan Releases: August 2024

August 2, 2024

Nike and Jordan Brand are constantly releasing new sneakers virtually 24/7. Some releases stand out more than others. This August, there will definitely be some noticeable Nike and Jordan releases to keep an eye on and potentially pick up.

Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4 RM Driveway Grey

The Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4 RM was an instant hit with the Fence Green colorway releasing recently in July. The unique adaptation of the Air Jordan 4 brings a new cut and a distinct look. Sylvester’s lifestyle and his time spent riding his bike on his grandma’s driveway as a kid influenced the new version of the Air Jordan 4.

The Driveway Grey colorway is sure to draw tons of attention on August 7th, when the sneakers retail for $150.

Nike Air Max Sunder Highlighter Green

Initially released in 1999, the Nike Air Max Sunder is receiving tons of attention as numerous colorways are being re-released this year. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the silhouette, Nike is bringing back some familiar colorways and new iterations. A collab with CDG definitely turned heads, but other versions are drawing more attention.

Best Nike and Jordan releases: Nike Air Max Sunder

Colorways like the Highlighter Green releasing this August and the Canyon Gold releasing later this fall are definitely some of the more noticeable Nike releases of the latter half of 2024. The Air Max Sunder didn’t gain too much traction when it was released in ’99. However, the retro/tech look has been popular as of recently and has brought a spotlight to the silhouette that hasn’t been seen before.

The Nike Air Max Sunder Highlighter Green releases August 8th for $180.

A Ma Maniere x Air Jordan 3 Black

A Ma Maniere and Jordan Brand team up once again on the Air Jordan 3. Black paired with flat pewter and violet ore stays true to the muted tones of numerous AMM collaborations with Jordan Brand. An aged midsole complemented by suede mudguards give this iteration of the Jordan 3 a fresh look.

The violet ore tongue pops but not too much. A satin sock liner gives this pair a luxurious feel. These sneakers will definitely be one of the best Nike and Jordan releases of August 2024.

The A Ma Maniere x Air Jordan 3 Black releases August 21st for a retail price of $250.

Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Halo

An all-white Nike Kobe 9 comes out later this month just in time for Kobe Day. The Kobe 9s display Kobe’s signature on the lateral heel is added to complement the Lunarlon-cushioned midsoles. The Kobe 9 was originally showcased on December 4th, 2013. Numerous colorways of this silhouette are distinguishable amongst the global basketball community. Kobes have always been sought after basketball sneakers, but have skyrocketed in terms of popularity after the late Italian-born, Laker legend’s tragic death.

Nike is releasing the Kobe 9 Elite Protro Halo which retails for $240 in men’s sizing ($120 GS) and the Kobe 9 EM Halo releases for a retail of $210 on August 23rd.

Alexis Sablone x Nike SB Dunk Low

After making history and becoming the first female skater with a signature shoe with Converse in 2023, Alexis Sablone is teaming up with Nike on a pair of SB Dunk Lows. With skating returning to the Olympics Summer games, Sablone was in charge of designing federation kits for the United States and Japan. She also led the fan apparel collection to support the worldwide skating community.

A gravel-like texture upper paired with green hues, a green outsole, and an off-white midsole gives this pair a unique look. Similar to the Converse CONS As-1 Pro, the Alexis Sablone x Nike SB Dunk Low features a tearaway upper which reveals more fuschia details. These SB Dunk Lows round out some of the best Nike and Jordan releases of August 2024. Sablone’s collab with Nike will be released at select skate shops and SNKRS at the end of the month.

The Alexis Sablone x Nike SB Dunk Low releases on August 29th for $110.

Personal Favorites: Comfortable and Luxurious Sneakers for Your Feet

July 27, 2024

Every years holds a new debate of the most comfortable sneaker on the market. New and familiar brands come around to get a crack at claiming their products are the comfiest available in the sneaker world. Here are a few of my personal favorites.

Adidas Ultra Boost 1.0

The Adidas Ultra Boost is universally regarded as one of the most comfortable sneakers of the 2010s. Yes, there are sneakers on the market that are more comfortable, but not nearly as widely recognized for overall comfort and style as the Ultra Boost.

Boost literally made Adidas cool again. Sure, to some Adidas has never went out of style. However, before the introduction of Boost and later Kanye West’s infamous Yeezy line, Adidas was always looked at as little brother to their American-based competitor headquartered in Oregon. The invention of Boost technology allowed the Adidas Ultra Boost to become one of the most worn comfortable kicks of all time. When they first came out, people were wearing them as lifestyle shoes because of their comfort levels and cloud-like feel on foot.

Personal favorites: Adidas Ultra Boost 1.0

Many argue over which version of the Ultra Boost is best and most comfortable. Adidas wanted to tweak the iconic silhouette and came out with multiple iterations of the ultra comfy Ultra Boost. Comparing different versions is like comparing a pull over hoodie to a zip up hoodie. Both (or all) versions are comfortable, but the favorite comes down to personal opinions and preferences.

The Adidas Ultra Boost 1.0 quickly became known as the most comfortable pair of sneakers available when they first came out in 2015. Adidas Boost technology brought a new feel to the sneaker world. Made out of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) pellets which gets molded into foam capsules, Boost tech provides an airy and responsive cushioning. Adidas boasted this technology which stayed true to its initial comfort levels even after miles and years of continuous use.

New Balance 990v5

New Balance has always been known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail. An American-based brand that prides itself on quality is sure to create some pretty comfortable sneakers. The 990s are a staple in the sneaker community, especially in specific regions like the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia).

Personal favorites: NB 990v5 — Photo via New Balance

The 990v5 and other versions of the 990 are often referred to as a classic “dad shoe.” Most dads aren’t worried as much about the look of a sneaker as they are in terms of overall comfort and feel on foot. There’s a reason why the New Balance 990v5 is so popular amongst younger and older crowds alike – they provide ultra comfort for individuals constantly on the go. The dad shoe trend is still alive and well. New Balance used to be viewed as an average and often overlooked brand in the sneaker world. Now, tons of NB sneakers are seen as stylish and even cool by countless sneaker enthusiasts.

Nike Air Foamposite

Although the Nike Foamposite feels like a brick on feet, they are definitely comfortable and feel secure when worn correctly. Foams are perfect winter sneakers as they provide comfort, warmth, and secureness to handle all the conditions.

The sock-like fit of the Foamposite feels like the inner lining molds to your feet for secure and unique fit overall. Nike definitely didn’t hold back with the heavyweight materials on the Foams, but not without implementing comfort to these tanks of sneakers. Nike Foamposites are some of my personal favorites because of their underrated comfort and high durability especially against inclement weather.

Air Jordan 11

Not typically viewed as a “comfortable sneaker,” this pick is definitely biased but not without valid reasoning. The Air Jordan 11 is surprisingly comfortable with a secure and

The Air Jordan 11 is easily one of my personal favorites in terms of wearable Jordans. Although they aren’t breathable at all (literally a sauna for your feet in the summer), the Air Jordan 11 provides noticeable comfort and ample ankle support. There’s a reason why the Jordan 11s are some of the most worn Jordans by basketball players all over the world.

New Balance 550

Although there are more universally comfortable sneakers from New Balance, the 550 is without a doubt comfort sleeper. Brought back and retroed thanks to Teddy Santis at Aime Leon Dore, the New Balance 550 keeps a classic feel and touch.

This retro silhouette isn’t meant for walking all day. However, it’s a solid comfortable sneaker perfect for a walk through the park or a day in the city. A lightweight feel caps it off and makes the New Balance 550s one of my personal favorites in terms of comfort and wearability.

Personal Favorites: Honorable Mentions

The Nike Air Max 1, Air Jordan 5, Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 v2, and New Balance 990v4 are all some personal favorites which made my honorable mention list. Other honorable mentions include the Nike Roshe Run and the New Balance 574.

All of these sneakers are personal favorites in terms of comfort through countless hours of use and comparing to other pairs in my collection. Comfort is both objective and subjective simultaneously. As my collection changes, so will some of my personal favorites in various aspects.

Creating the Life You Want: Independence & Decisions

July 23, 2024

Creating the life you want is only up to you. At the end of the day, people constantly let us down. Even the people we love the most let us down on occasion. However, the only person you have full control over is yourself. You cannot let yourself down if you choose not to. It’s as simple as that. Only you can create the life you want with the right decisions and a high level of independence.

Independence, Solitude, and Peace

Many people, especially adults claim they are independent, but clearly are dependent on someone else or something else. Countless adults around the world lie to themselves when they declare their independence. Yes, they might be independent from their parents or guardians, but are they truly an independent person?

Dependent individuals might depend on friends or family members to always be there at every earliest convenience possible. The closest people in your life won’t be around 24/7. An independent individual has more power than any dependent ever will. The ability to live and eventually thrive without dependence of another person can literally change someone’s life. Independence is one of the most crucial keys to success in any aspect of life.

Independence and solitude aren’t mutually exclusive. Solitude stems from independence; on the other hand, independence can function normally without any resemblance of solitude. One must become and remain independent to fully appreciate solitude to the highest degree. Solitude brings peace and tranquility.

In this noisy and busy world, solitude is no longer a luxury. Solitude is absolutely a necessity especially in fast-paced environments. People around the world will always be in a rush no matter the time or day. Solitude allows life to slow down; the mind can process thoughts clearer and be less distracted from the outside world.

Creating the Life You Want: Becoming the Best Version of Yourself

Creating the life you want and desire goes hand in hand with becoming the best version of yourself. You will never be “finished.” The best version of yourself is one that is constantly improving. Aiming to do better in every aspect possible. Seeking to correct mistakes with a drive to never stop learning, no matter whether formal education is part of your life or not. Learning doesn’t stop at school. Reading is one of the best ways to improve yourself. The best method to improve in life is through experience. No business school can show you how to run a small business. Experience is a teacher that theory can never replace.

The process of improvement is never-ending. One goal met or exceeded leads to another or multiple goals. Self-discipline and self-motivation are both essential to becoming the best version of yourself; evolving in life is a necessity to achieve even a minuscule amount of success. Creating the life you want often leads to countless hours of confusion, anger or sadness. Nothing will be easy. When you can look at your life from an overhead view, you will be able to appreciate all of the moments, good and bad, that have led you to where you are today. The journey never ends, but must be appreciated along the way.

Law and Sneakers: Nike vs Everybody

July 21, 2024

Nike has been no stranger in the courtroom over the past few years. The American-based footwear and apparel giant has been issuing cease and desists left and right as well as conducting numerous lawsuits. Corporations like Nike and Adidas have a much easier time of protecting their brand compared to smaller companies. Law and sneakers have intersected more than usual in the recent past. Nike has declared war on just about everybody who attempts to put their own spin on the check.

Law and Sneakers: Intellectual Property

Copyright and patent law has always been significant in the sneaker world. However, Nike has drawn more attention to the relationship between law and sneakers more than ever over the last couple of years. From lawsuits to cease and desists, Nike is showing no signs of backing down to anyone or any company.

Copyright infringement has always been a hot topic in fashion, but has become more ubiquitous in sneakers over the past decade or so. With tons of independent sneaker labels popping up left and right, corporations and lawyers have their hands full on an ongoing basis. Many of these smaller brands take “inspiration” from giants like Nike or even outright rip off Nike’s designs and iconic silhouettes.

Huge corporations cannot pursue every single copyright or patent law case. These industry giants must make calculated moves when dealing with the American legal system. Every case won’t go in their favor even with the immense resources that large corporations are capable of expending.

Intellectual property (IP) refers to property that includes intangible creations of the human intellect. The most well-known types of IP consist of patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets. IP rights are rights given to individuals over their creations. Corporations are not much different than an individual looking to protect their intellectual property.

Nike’s intellectual property goes far beyond what the public can see. For example, many sneakerheads know about sneaker labels trying to put their own “spin” on the Nike Air Force One or the Air Jordan 1. However, only a select number of people know about technology that has yet to come out. Nike as well as other companies seek to protect their IP that is available to the public and the property that may still be “in the works.”

Nike vs. Bape

Nike and Bape (A Bathing Ape) have maintained a complicated relationship ever since the Japanese-based streetwear label came out with the “Bape Stas,” which closely resemble the timeless and world-recognized Nike Air Force One. Nike has kept their distance from Bape until rather recently. Earlier this year, Nike settled the legal dispute over numerous sneakers produced by Bape.

Earlier this year, Nike announced their lawsuit against Bape was resolved “through an amicable resolution.” Nike settled the infringement lawsuit against Bape according to a filing submitted in New York’s Southern District Court. The two parties reached a settlement after Nike filed a trademark infringement suit against Bape in January 2023. The Japanese streetwear brand was accused of ripping off several sneakers including the Nike Air Force One and the Nike Dunk.

Law and sneakers: Nike vs Bape — United States District Court

According to a statement given to Complex, the settlement led to Bape agreeing to discontinue the Bape Sta Mid, Court Sta, and the Court Sta High sneakers. The streetwear label also agreed to ultimately modify the Bape Sta and Sk8 Sta designs. Nike once offered Bape a licensing deal for shoes before the two parties reached a settlement in 2024.

The settlement outcome was no surprise as many smaller labels had to agree to modify designs after Nike came after them regarding trademark and copyright infringement lawsuits. This settlement between Bape and Nike set a precedent for relationships between corporations and smaller brands; the lawyers and resources at corporate giants remain unrivaled compared to their legal opponents at independent streetwear and sneaker labels.

Law and Sneakers: Designs and Copyright

Bape won’t be the last independent brand accused of jacking Nike’s designs. Countless smaller labels have taken iconic silhouettes like the Air Jordan 1 and stripped the Nike logos before rebranding them. There’s a reason all of these independent brands modify some of Nike’s best designs. The silhouettes are iconic, timeless, and recognizable all around the world, with or without the Nike or Air Jordan branding. Nike obviously views these small brands as legal headaches; nobody in the sneaker world can deny how the sportswear and footwear giant in Oregon has forever changed the trajectory of sneaker design.

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness.

-Oscar Wilde

Bape and Nike won’t be the last trademark and copyright infringement suit between the American sneaker and apparel giant. Nike has set a precedent of going after numerous designers for various instances of infringement like Kool Kiy and more recently the Shoe Surgeon. These lawsuits won’t stop anytime soon and Nike’s lawyers will continue to bill overtime for the forseeable future. Law and sneakers will continue to have a complicated relationship as more designers infringe upon intellectual property already copyrighted and/or trademarked.

Read more on Complex

Sneakers and Social Media: Positives vs. Negatives

July 14, 2024

Sneakers and social media have undoubtedly amplified the influence of sneakers around the world. However, this influence isn’t all good nor all bad. Sneakers haven’t always been considered mainstream; social media has made numerous subcultures less “underground” in a rather short period of time.

Sneakers and Social Media: Rise from the Underground

Sneakers were once considered an underground subculture not too long ago. With the rise of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and recently Tik Tok, sneakers are no longer a subculture confined to a select number of individuals. Now, sneakers are everywhere, both literally and figuratively. Almost every teenager around the world has heard of Jordans and Yeezys even if they could care less about sneakers and new releases. Social media has amplified the power of sneakers especially towards people who aren’t actively following (no pun intended) or involved in sneakers both online and in-person.

Since the early 2010s, sneakers have seen a meteoric rise in popularity, influence, and overall consumption. Every year, individuals all over the world become actively involved in sneakers with some becoming sneaker enthusiasts or “sneakerheads.” Before social media came exploded, sneakers were considered an underground subculture; many sneakerheads exclusively shared opinions and thoughts on sneaker forums such as NikeTalk. Many sneaker enthusiasts would flock to these online forums regarding sneaker releases, sharing opinions, or discussing just about anything sneaker-related. Now, these forums have been virtually overtaken by social media platforms such as Instagram and Twitter.

Sneakers online are no longer confined to sneaker specific forums. Sneakers are literally everywhere on social media; sports pages, fashion pages, music pages, and pop culture pages all feature multiple aspects of sneakers on a regular and consistent basis. Online websites showcase sneakers as well, but sneakers are evidently ubiquitous on virtually every social media platform.

Social Media Positives and Negatives

To start with the positives of social media’s impact on sneakers, it’s essential to start with the overall influence and reach of platforms in regards to the sneaker world. Sneakers would be nowhere as widespread and mainstream as they are today without social media. Even though all influence and attention isn’t always “good,” the impact of social media has definitely been net positive. Many people now know about sneakers thanks to social media; certain platforms like Instagram and Tik Tok even introduce certain audiences to the vast world of sneakers.

Without the influence of sneakers and social media, we wouldn’t see or hear about nearly as many feel-good stories relating to sneakers. There wouldn’t be any grandpas in sneakers or students surprising their beloved teachers with nostalgic pairs if it weren’t for the positive side of social media. These worthwhile stories and impactful news reports regarding sneakers would be nowhere to be found if social media never existed.

On the other hand, social media brings plenty of drawbacks and downsides especially relating to sneakers. There are plenty of individuals who are all over sneaker social media without genuine intentions; many users only see the dollar signs behind sneakers and don’t appreciate them for their actual purpose. Countless people log on to Instagram after missing out on a particular release to see some teenager with mommy’s credit card cashing out on tens or evens hundreds of pairs of the same sneakers. It’s frustrating for countless genuine sneakerheads to witness the industry get infiltrated by individuals who have no intentions of collecting or wearing sneakers. While reselling has been around long before social media, there has been an amplified view of the dark side of reselling due to numerous photos, opinions, and news stories involving sneakers.

Most sneaker enthusiasts and sneakerheads have genuine intentions and look to uplift those around them in the sneaker community. However, social media tends to portray a dark light on sneakers as a whole because of the bad rep associated with reselling and price gouging. Social media isn’t smart enough to filter individuals in sneakers with good intentions compared to those with ill-advised or poor intentions. Anyone actively or passively involved in sneakers is typically grouped together no matter their end goal or genuineness.

Sneakers and social media have come a long way since the relationship first started. Now it’s much easier to separate genuine sneaker enthusiasts from individuals who are only looking to profit off sneakers. Corny and cliche lines, photos with boxes stacked to the ceiling, and a clear lack of basic sneaker knowledge are often a direct indication of weeding out the bogus sneakerheads from the genuine ones. Social media brings both positives and negatives to the sneaker world due to many reasons beyond the ones already highlighted.

The Future of Sneakers and Social Media

Sneakers and social media are still in the early stages of a long-lasting relationship. There are tons of positives but not without drawbacks and kinks that must be dealt with accordingly. Social media is complex and cannot be explained in a single post like this one. However, as social media platforms evolve, so will the relationship with sneakers. In the years to come, more positives and (hopefully) less negatives will come along for sneakers and social media together.

Friendships Are Complicated: Friends, Acquaintances & More

July 10, 2024

Making and keeping friends is often one of the hardest things to do in life especially for introverts. Some people may get the wrong impression of us while others may rub us the wrong way. At the end of the day, friendships are complicated and complex, just like any other type of relationship in life.

Friends, Acquaintances, and Everything in Between

The term ‘friend’ is often used more loosely in youth compared to adulthood. As people grow older, they often realize more friends doesn’t always lead to better experiences and feelings. Acquaintances rarely exist in childhood but are found everywhere as maturity comes around. Friendships dwindle with time for known and unknown reasons; most friendships come and go like the seasons roll around every year like clockwork.

Acquaintances often fill adult lives because as we age our priorities change. We may know more people than ever before, but don’t have as many people to call a true friend. Differentiating between an acquaintance and a friend is half the battle. The other half is figuring out how these humans fit in our lives in a positive and healthy manner.

Significant life events either draw us closer to friends or create a larger gap in the friendship. When someone moves, they either become better friends due to staying in touch more frequently or more often than not, fade away from each other due to the literal and figurative distance. Another example is when individuals get in serious romantic relationships with a particular significant other. Some friends become more distant as their partner takes up more of their time and energy. At the same time, some friends become closer. Only time will tell how such events will impact friendships and acquaintances. Friendships are complicated.

Friendships: Not a Numbers Game

Acquiring more friends typically doesn’t directly lead to better experiences and an increase in overall happiness. Friendships are complicated and shouldn’t be valued based off numbers alone. Quality of relationships in life is far more important than the total quantity. Someone with one hundred friends may feel lonely while another person with only ten true friends feels appreciated and respected. Numbers never have and never will determine the impact of friendships in life.

Friends are supposed to be an addition to a collection like sports trading cards or sneakers. Real friends should be cherished and appreciated more like family heirlooms; they cannot be bought, replicated, or replaced. One friend may leave your life and a new one enters. However, no two friends are exactly alike and cannot serve the same exact purpose in our lives.

Friendships are complicated and should never be viewed as a numbers game. Those who seek to acquire more friends solely for quantity sake will typically find themselves in a more negative situation than initially expected.

Friendships Are Complicated: Different Types of Friends

All friends aren’t created equal. Some may be genuine while others may stick around only for their benefit. Some friends don’t require much effort and others need more attention and energy for various reasons.

Figuring out where your friends and acquaintances fit in your life is half the battle. You feel horrible when you realize someone doesn’t like you or appreciate you as you initially thought. While they may still be a friend or acquaintance, these individuals must have a defined role in your life. Some “friends” will take advantage of you if you give them an inch; others speak highly of you and defend your name behind your back when you’re not present. All friends and acquaintances aren’t equal.

There may be drinking (or smoking) buddies, friends you play sports with, work friends, people who you bond together over a similar hobby, or neighbors who become friendly acquaintances or even turn into true friends. There are countless different types of friends and acquaintances for every occasion possible. Friendships are complicated and it’s often even more complicated to put a label on every single friendship you’ve had in the past, have now in the present, or will have in the future.

Navigating Friendships Throughout Life

Like any relationship, friendships are rarely easy or simple. Any relationship between two functioning humans is bound to be complex and complicated. Friendships of all types require time, energy and effort to flourish.

Trust is built over time but can be destroyed in a matter of seconds. Watch who you call a friend and never take real friends for granted in this short life.

Life will bring along numerous friendships, some may be more beneficial or rewarding than others, but they all teach valuable lessons and impact our life in various ways.

Early Top 2025 Sneaker Releases: Nike & Jordan

July 5, 2024

As we approach the midpoint of the decade, there are already numerous noticeable sneaker releases slated for 2025. There will be countless noticeable sneaker releases, but there are already a few that stick out more than others.

Air Jordan 5 Black Metallic Reimagined

One of my favorite Jordan silhouettes paired with a timeless colorways makes an early list of must cops.

The Reimagined series is far from stopping anytime soon. The Black Metallic 5s will be a highly anticipated release as they will be returning for the first time since 2016. Jordan Brand will continue to milk the “Reimagined” line as long as possible. Although the Air Jordan 5 Black Metallic won’t be the most sought after Reimagined Jordan of 2025, this particular release will resonate well with older Jordan fans who appreciate sneaker history.

Nike Air Foamposite One Galaxy

One of the best Foams of all time making a comeback in 2025. This iteration of the iconic Galaxy colorway will be popular, but nowhere near the craze of the original release. People won’t be lining up and police likely won’t be involved during in-person releases of the 2025 pair. However, the Galaxy Foams will fly off the shelves in store and online.

Sneaker releases: Nike Air Foamposite Galaxy

The Galaxy Foams will be one of the hottest sneaker releases of 2025. Foams have definitely calmed down since the late 2000s and early 2010s, but this pair will forever be a certified classic for all Foamposites and Nike sneakers as well.

Air Jordan 1 High ’85 Bred

Not much has to be said about the Bred colorway. On numerous Air Jordan models, the black and red combo will never go out of style. The ’85 cut of the Air Jordan 1 is as close to the original Air Jordan 1s as possible. Many Jordan fans appreciate the true to original cut and specifications compared to other iterations of the Air Jordan 1.

Undefeated x Air Jordan 4

Another iconic Jordan makes it way to a slated list of highly sought-after sneaker releases next year. The Undefeated Air Jordan 4 is one of the most appreciated and expensive Air Jordan 4s of all time.

Sneaker releases: Undefeated Air Jordan 4

The Undefeated Jordan 4s are some of the most sought after Jordans of all time. Releasing this pair for a second time will come with mixed emotions. However, very few sneaker enthusiasts will feel gloomy about having another chance at a major grail. Luck is definitely needed to secure this pair, just like its first go around.

Air Jordan 5 Grape

Another classic colorway that has seen numerous varations since its original release in 1990. Will Smith made the Grape colorway highly popular throughout the hit 90’s show The Fresh Prince of Bel Air. Since then, the Grape 5s have been one of most anticipated and well-known original Air Jordan 5 colorways.

Air Jordan 3 Black Cat

Following its cousin, the Air Jordan 4 Black Cat, the Air Jordan 3 Black Cat makes a noticeable return. An all black sneaker on a top 5 Air Jordan silhouette will definitely have countless Jordan loves and countless sneaker enthusiasts to check out lines. Anyone who cannot appreciate an all black Jordan rarely appreciates timeless colorways like the Black Cat.

Since being originally released in 2007, the Air Jordan 3 Black Cat has been deemed timeless pair of Jordans due to the clean look and durability of an all-black sneaker. Many Jordan fans and sneaker enthusiasts will be anticipating this particular pair in 2025.

Nike Air Max Sunder

Nike has been bringing back numerous “cult classics” recently. The Nike Air Max Sunder is returning Fall 2024/Spring 2025 since first being released in 1999. This Nike silhouette didn’t take off when it first released, but has definitely drawn tons of attention due to its return.

The Canyon Gold colorway releases this summer and kicks off multiple Sunder releases for the rest of the year all the way to next year. Nike and Gore-Tex are teaming up once again; this time for the Air Max Sunder, which is sure to draw even more attention thanks to the well-known wearability and durability of Gore-Tex materials. Nothing is confirmed for 2025 yet, but these sneakers will definitely be one of the more noticeable sneaker releases in the new year.

Trusting Your Future: Navigating a Life of Unknowns

June 26, 2024

One of the greatest human fears is the unknown especially the unknown of the future. Many people do as much as possible to attempt to predict or better understand the future. Everyone worries about the future in some way or another. Trusting your future is essential to keep a calm and stable mind.

Being Okay with the Unknown

One of the most common worries of the modern human is confronting the unknown. There is the unknown we know about and then the unknowns we don’t know about. Both can seem daunting and outright scary. However, there must be balance in everything in life, especially when dealing with unknowns.

Trusting your future is all about finding balance and being okay with the unknowns of life. No matter how hard we may try, we’ll never be able to know everything. The unknowns will always be present no matter how much time and effort is exuded in the never-ending journey of conquering the unknowns of life.

Unknowns are some of the few known facts about life. We know we are born and we will die some day. That time in between is filled with countless things we know about consciously and even more things we have no clue about; unknowns keep the world going. If everyone knew everything all the time, there would be little to no purpose in life. Not knowing everything can actually be a benefit when a person stops trying to figure out every minute detail about their life and the world around them.

Trusting Your Future: Accepting and Appreciating the Present

The past is gone and the future is yet to come.

Trusting your future requires you to accept and appreciate the present. We don’t have to like everything about our current situation. However, there is still plenty to appreciate in the present moment. Before appreciating the present, an individual must first accept the current period of their life. This time will be the past sooner than we expect. We must appreciate what we have now as it won’t be around forever.

Appreciating the present requires a level of maturity and understanding about life that most people are seeking to obtain. When the present is fully appreciated, the past cannot consumer our day to day lives and the future cannot over-worry or over-stress us. This time now is all we have at this exact moment. Appreciate what is here now before it moves on and becomes a memory.

The future is closer than most realize.

Finding Ways to Not Dwell on the Past

Even though everyone makes mistakes, countless people around the world still dwell on the past and think about the what-ifs and what could have beens. No matter how hard we try, we’ll never be able to change the past. The past should be left alone before it affects the present. The past must be acknowledged and learned from when appropriate, but should never consume lives full of possibilities and opportunities.

Everyday holds endless opportunities for every person around the world; if everyone worried about the past nonstop, then the world would have nothing to provide in the present moment.

The past consumes too much of countless daily lives. People all over the world think about events and actions that cannot be undone. No amount of time, energy, or money can change the past. That time you got a speeding ticket or the time you treated a friend poorly cannot be reversed. Although we can’t “fix” our pasts, there is still plenty to learn from without dwelling on past mistakes.

Trusting your future is essential to living a healthy and mindful life. Never lose sight of the future and remember not to dwell on the past. Appreciate this moment right now as it will never come back once it has passed.

Personal Top 5 Sneakers of 2024 (So Far)

June 22, 2024

Although the year is now more than halfway over, there have been some noticeable releases that will end up on countless best sneakers of the year lists all over the sneaker world. Some sneakers are subjectively better than others while some are universally agreed upon as top releases of the year. In no particular order will be my personal top 5 sneakers of 2024 so far.

Nike Dunk Low SB Futura Laboratories Bleached Aqua

A highly influential designer teams up with Nike on a popular model. What could go wrong?

For this release, absolutely nothing.

This pair is already an early sneaker of the year (SOTY) contender. Don’t be surprised when these break the top five and even top three best sneakers in countless lists when the year comes to a close.

Bodega x Saucony Grid Shadow 2 Jaunt Woven

Saucony has been as popular as ever thanks to some well done collaborations. Jae Tips teamed up with the Pennsylvania-based brand last year and produced unique kicks in multiple aspects. Now, the Boston-based boutique Bodega put their twist on a classic Saucony silhouette.

A woven upper makes this pair extremely unique. Saucony and Bodega perfected this pair and pulled out an original idea that was sure to be a hit. Mismatch woven materials paired with dark/forest green with red and neon hits complement this silhouette well. Saucony pulled out their best release of the past few years for a special collab with Bodega. Hopefully the duo teams up again in the future to bring sneaker enthusiasts another unique colorway paired with underutilized materials.

Air Jordan 4 Bred Reimagined

Many often debate about the best Air Jordan 4 colorways. No matter one’s opinion, there’s no debating that the Bred colorway remains timeless.

Debates about suede/nubuck compared to leather seemed to calm down after this pair released earlier this year. When people got this pair in hand, they started to better appreciate the new twist on a classic sneaker. Some even prefer this version compared to the typical suede.

Stone Island x New Balance 574 Legacy Light Green

New Balance and Stone Island crafted some near perfect spring/summer kicks. The light, not too far off from mint green paired with gray, tan, and black hits with a white midsole makes this pair a timeless iteration of an ageless model.

Although this collab is nothing crazy, it still hits the spot. New Balance and Stone Island came together to put out a simple yet effective colorway for this release.

Jordan Jumpman Jack TR Sail and Dark Mocha

It was only a matter of time until Travis Scott received his first signature sneaker. Although his initial shoe was far from groundbreaking, it was still an instant hit. Sneaker fans all over flocked to SNKRS for a chance to grab the Jumpman Jacks.

Mocha and tan are not strangers on countless Travis Scott sneakers, so it only makes sense for his signature sneaker to have a familiar colorway. It should be interesting to see how this new model will perform in the long run.