2009 - BEST OF THE BEST SNEAKERS

ANGELO DESTOUNIS - MONTREAL
STAPLE x NEW BALANCE 575

After ten years in this industry, I’ve seen tons of shoes from tons of brands in all shapes and sizes! I won’t say I’m jaded, that will never happen, but I have become more picky however. I’m also a sample size 9, and after the seasonal buying period for my shop, lots of sales reps give me their samples. I wear them and get instant feedback from customers and friends… Hence, I end up with a whole lot of shoes by the end of the year.

All this to say, a shoe that stands the true test of time is when the time comes to unload! Space is always an issue and boredom as well. Some shoes I wore too many times so they don’t feel that fresh after a while. I end up giving them away to friends or charity.
I do have some gems however, and here’s one of them – the Staple x New Balance 575 (White Pigeon).

Thanks to my homie Jesse Bowden, I got my hands on this piece a while back. The colours fit perfect and the mesh toe box is always my favourite part. The whole concept of the ‘Pigeon’ reminds me of my favourite record by Cannibal Ox called The Cold Vein. The pigeon is at the bottom of the food chain, but a true survivor regardless. Every time I see a pigeon on the street, whether in New York or Berlin, I’ll always think of this shoe.
Brilliant.