Not quite turning Japanese but Biz Markie talkin about the Vapors here, not the Vapors talking about Turning Japanese.

Definitely needing no introduction to any sneaker-head is the relentlessly jam-packed Sneaker Freaker Magazine.  Just read issue 15 front to back (I own about 7 of the issues) and I’m yet to be disappointed. Apart from the usually well written news, reviews and interviews, I particularly enjoyed the ‘2009 RELEASES’ section, located towards the back of the book, which was basically a 38-page drool-fest - and believe me, i took my time.  The mag is ended in a way to stimulate your thoughts on the direction of sneakers, as product and culture.  Elaborated in the last 18 pages, you’ve really gotta give kudos to these luxurious Designer Houses who have officially got more than one foot in the door in this game, so to speak.  I agree that retro is becoming somewhat tiresome, to the point of lame recycling in some cases, which is what excites me about these new players.  So besides the $700-$1400 price tag, lets see what else these classic powerhouse labels can bring to the table, and maybe just light a fire under the dominating sportswear brands asses (say that with love).

Once again my hat goes off to the Sneaker Freaker crew with yet another well produced issue.  With four different covers to collect, peep the limited glow-in-the-dark version…  Money!

Bishop a.k.a. 9B… “Chess, not checkers”.

The art of sticker bombing…. they still have a lot to learn.

Photos by Marla Grimshaw

PS - Happy 30th The Saint.