Since coming to Los Angeles three years ago, I can certainly say that I’ve became truly invested in sneaker culture. I am enamored by its artists and athletes who use fashion as an extension of their personal brand and identity. Sneakers are arguably pushing to the forefront of fashion, moving from historic athletic roots to infiltrating the luxury industry, and every subculture of society in between. Compared to my hometown in suburban Ontario, I am still consistently amazed by LA’s larger-than-life Nike billboards and blocks of iconic stores like Flight Club dedicated exclusively to selling sneakers.

As a newbie to the rich longstanding history of sneakers, I created Heart and Sole: The Rise of the Modern Day Sneakerhead as a documentation of my navigation of the complex history of sneakers and the faces behind the culture. Developing a greater understanding of the immense love and appreciation for shoes shared by the sneaker community, my passion for sneakers has only grown stronger. However, the stories of sneakers are best told through the practitioners of the culture. Having had the privilege of speaking with many devoted sneakerheads, authors, and aficionados, I hope you enjoy reading their stories as much as I enjoyed listening to them.