My people back home on the island definitely have a small and growing sneaker scene; they just don’t have many outlets to shop for exclusives yet. The market has to be cultivated. Many kids were chanclas (slippers) and older heads rock shoes. But where there is a will, there is a way. Shout out to Cabo at Victory Saga en El Condado, San Juan who is trying to do it boutique steez.

Nike Dunk on a talkative and friendly sneakerhead who recognized me @ La Plazita De Santurce. He claimed he had his own Nike shoe coming out. More power to him if so! Fuerza, mi primo.

Nike Air Max 360 2 on Jansy Gonzalez. Jansy stays ahead of the PR pack. He’s my best friend on the island, a Project Playground Basketball member, and rolls with Crazy Legs and the Rock Steady Crew. No one fronts on him out there. He’s the man!

adidas Crazy 8 on a kid with the perfect Roberto Clemente Pittsburgh Pirates fit. I happened to be reading a biography on our 1st Major League Hall of Fame inductee, so I had added emotion when I saw the youngster paying homage. Clemente is my hero. #21 forever.