Meet Charles Martinez, a health and fitness trainer from Edmonton, Canada who loves to collect sneakers. He has been an avid sneaker collector since he was a teenager and has amassed an impressive collection over the last couple of years. He is always on the lookout for his next trade and will never pass up an opportunity to add another pair of kicks to his collection.
Tell us how you got into sneakers.
It all started when I was 17. I worked in the footwear department at Sport Chek, so I was always surrounded by sneakers. When we got our first Jordan release, I got my first pair of Jordans, the Air Jordan 3 “Fire Red,” and I’ve been hooked ever since.
Unfortunately, after nearly 2 years of collecting, I had to hit the reset button on my collection to focus on being a student. Fast forward to the fall of 2021, and my love for sneakers returned. I purchased my first pair of Yeezys and haven’t looked back.
In 2013 I had only about 12 sneakers, and at the end of 2022, I had roughly 80 pairs. Now I’m mainly adding to my collection for retail prices, thanks SoleSavy!
How long have you been a member?
Not long enough! I haven’t been a member long, I started in July 2022. But ever since joining, I was able to grow my collection even more, and started saving money by picking up shoes for retail! I am very happy I joined, and my only regret is not joining sooner!
What sneaker do you cherish the most in your collection?
The Air Jordan 4 “Military Blue.” When they released in 2012, I was able to get them for a steal. My favorite color is blue, and at the time, my favorite Air Jordan silhouette was the 4s (they’re second to the 1s now), the colorway is just perfect and subtle. After I sold my whole collection, this was the only shoe I kept, and I still have them to this day. The leather back then was just such great quality! I hope to see a retro of this shoe with the “Nike Air” logo soon, and I will definitely be doubling up, if so!
What’s the best sneaker you’ve gotten through your SoleSavy membership?
The Air Jordan 4 Retro “Lightning.” I won a raffle through SoleSavy and I couldn’t believe it! Got ’em for retail, of course. It was a great experience winning my first raffle!
What’s your grail?
The one and only Off-White x Air Jordan 4 “Sail.” As I said, the Air Jordan 4 is one of my favorite silhouettes, and the collaboration with Off-White was a home run! Thankfully, I do have this shoe in my collection!
What’s one thing you’re passionate about outside of sneakers?
I’m a personal trainer and coach for a living. I am passionate about health & fitness, not just for my own, but for everyone around me. I love helping everyone become the best version of themselves; health is wealth! I am fortunate that I can show up to work in comfortable attire, and get to have a rotation of sneakers!
What’s an underrated sneaker people should try working out in?
I have yet to see someone in-person workout in Air Jordan 4s! They surprisingly have great stability, and keep your feet grounded and secure on the floor. That stability is something you want out of any shoe when you are working out or training.
Is there a pair that always catches people’s attention at the gym?
People always get surprised when I pull out the Off-White x Nike Blazer “Grim Reaper.” I take care of my sneakers, but Blazers are a great workout shoe at the end of the day.
How does your sneaker collection reflect your personality?
Good question, I collect everything from hype to GR sneakers. My personality is very outgoing, and I love wearing stuff that makes people look at my feet and say “damn, you really got those!”
What sneakers do you have for sale on COLLECT right now?
I have a few at the moment, the sacai x Nike Cortez 4.0 “White,” Union x Air Jordan 2 “Rattan,” and Off-White x Air Jordan 5 “Sail.” They’re all size 9 and deadstock, don’t be shy with the offers!
Are there any shoes you’re hoping to trade for? / What’s on your watch list on COLLECT?
Yes! Looking for these pairs in Size 9; Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low x “Reverse Mocha,” A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 3, Off-White x Nike Blazer “The Ten,” and I wouldn’t mind another pair of the Off-White x Air Jordan 4s.
What sneaker brand are you most excited about right now?
As always, Jordan Brand, I’m very biased! But, I am starting to get into New Balance, and I love the vibe they are bringing!
What is it about Jordan Brand that keeps you coming back?
Growing up, I’ve always been into basketball, and Michael Jordan was THAT guy. What Jordan has done, not just with the game of basketball, but the broader culture is something I will always be grateful to have witnessed in my lifetime! The main reason I find the Jordan Brand so exciting is that Jordans are just the perfect pair, combining sneakers and streetwear together; creating an ultimate outfit! It can spice up and elevate any outfit.
What’s one thing you would change about sneakers in its current state?
Having Air Jordan Retro releases not be so saturated with one specific silhouette. For example, last year, tons of Air Jordan 2 colorways were released. Having more variety mixed throughout the year would create more balance and interest in certain colorways. I like having more rare sneakers, rather than having a bunch of GRs in my collection, but that’s just my personal opinion!
Come for the sneakers, stay for the community.
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