Cover The TAI-CHI-NM shoe from Onitsuka Tiger

Gift the sneakerhead, whether male or female, in your life with shoes that'll match their taste and lifestyle

Choosing sneakers can be challenging, especially when you're buying a pair for someone else. The designs and brands can get overwhelming. But this year, Tatler makes shopping easy by listing down all the shoes you can get sneakerheads based on their personalities.

In Case You Missed It: 10 of the Most Iconic Converse Sneakers to Have in Your Closet

1. For the Cult Fashionista

Tatler Asia
Tatler Asia

Showcasing the marvels of Japanese craftsmanship to the world, Onitsuka Tiger created the NIPPON MADE series. You can feel this in the quality materials and every facet of the craftwork that goes into these shoes, right down to the dyeing and stitching. Sage artisans’ hands create the timeless beauty of these shoes. Made in Japan, and only available in selected stores around the world, this series is a joyful investment for every fashion and design connoisseur. Stay in style when you try on any of the NIPPON MADE pairs.

The MOAL 77 NM design is inspired by the archive model Montreal II which was released in 1977. One can see that the brand paid much attention to the unique archival details. On the other hand, the ULTIMATE 81 NM is a modern incarnation of the ULTIMATE 81 model with a striking colourway. The technology provides superior cushioning and fit. With its luxurious finish, it embodies a style all its own.

2. For the Basketball Fan

Tatler Asia
Photo: Nike
Above Photo: Nike

Basketball fans will go mad for a pair of comfortable shoes worn by their favourite players. There are various designs and colourways promoted by LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, and more. Just make sure to find out which team they're cheering on.

See also: Why Do Filipinos Love Basketball? Origins, Famous Players, And More

If they're cheering for James's team, then don't be afraid to take a shot at the Nike LeBron 19 basketball shoes. It is designed with a locked-in fit and a new cushioning system which makes the shoe feel snug—a great shoe to wear whether they're planning on running across the court soon or just collecting.

3. For the on-the-go Dad and Mom

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Photo: ASOS
Above Photo: ASOS

There are classic silhouettes that make it easy to match, especially when they're too busy to plan their outfit. So if you're gifting busy-bees a pair, you can wrap a box of New Balance (NB) shoes in their size. The brand has recently garnered new fame for its chunky silhouettes and cool tones—even Instagram models are racking their NB collection—so it's definitely still en vogue. 

One of the highly coveted styles from New Balance is the 452 White Black which has a retro feel to it with chunky soles and a black topline and sole that contrasts its white upper and collar. A similar style can be copped with the 615 Classic Sneakers. You can never go wrong with a clean, white colourway.

4. For the Rookie Collector

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Photo 1 of 3 Photo: Twitter / Nice Kicks
Photo 2 of 3 Photo: Twitter / Nice Kicks
Photo 3 of 3 Photo: Twitter / Nice Kicks

Many people dream of completing a shoe collection, but it can be difficult for rookie collectors to begin especially when they're not sure where to start. You can help them out by gifting them one of the most limited pairs that were recently released in the country—the Air Jordan 4 Manila.

See also: The First-Ever Jordan Store In Manila Is Here

When the first Jordan store in the Philippines opened its doors in December last year, more sneakerheads had the chance to see the Air Jordan 4 Manila pair up close. There were only 150 pairs produced. These sneakers will definitely inspire your loved ones to collect more once you surprise them with these!

5. For the Eco-Warrior

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Photo 1 of 2 Photo: Kickstarter
Photo 2 of 2 Photo: Kickstarter

Advocates of slow fashion and the protectors of the environment will love the Johnny sneakers, a shoe created by a company in Toronto. Not only is it simple and easy to wear daily, but it also grows into apple trees for its second life.

See also: Earth Day 2021: 5 Recycled Sneakers To Wear

That’s right—the lightweight shoes are made with comfortable materials including biodegrades. What a way to lessen your carbon footprint!

6. For Those Who Favour Designer

Tatler Asia
Photo: Frosty Ilze / Unsplash
Above Photo: Frosty Ilze / Unsplash

Some people admire unconventional designer sneakers. Some pairs from luxury brands offer a selection that's quite unusual and that's what makes it special. So if you want to surprise them with a statement piece, you might want to check out Balenciaga's collection. The Maison has various designs that are elegant, comfy, and unique such as the popular Triple S sneakers and the Speed Recycled sneakers, both of which are styled with thick and bulky soles.

7. For the Minimalist

Tatler Asia
Photo: Mnz / Unsplash
Above Photo: Mnz / Unsplash

Regardless if you're gifting someone who's hard to please, you can never go wrong with a white pair of kicks. Neat, fresh, and simple—that's all a minimalist can ask for, and that's exactly what you're giving them. Although there are a lot of brands to choose from, you'll want to buy them a pair that will last long and feels great on feet.

See also: 5 Fashionable White Sneakers To Have This 2021

Consider getting them white Stan Smiths from Adidas which became an iconic model long before wearing white sneakers became mainstream. The silhouette isn't too chunky nor is it too thin. For 56 years, the Stan Smith shoes have made wearing plain, old white kicks cool. 

8. For the Cool Kid at Heart

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Photo 1 of 3 Photo: Converse
Photo 2 of 3 Photo: Nike
Photo 3 of 3 Photo: Converse

A pair of Converse sneakers is your best choice when it comes to gifting a young soul. Not only is it a safe choice, but it is also a timeless style at that. Either you choose to gift them the basic colourway such as the Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top or Hi Top or designs that were birthed after collaborations with artists like Kim Jones or Keith Haring, it's sure to make their eyes sparkle once they lay their eyes on the pair. 

But if they seem to always be on-trend, there's a good chance they'll love the new Run Star Hike sneakers with the thick soles. 

9. For the Hypebeast

Tatler Asia
Photo: Twitter / @ellyonthetrack
Above Photo: Twitter / @ellyonthetrack

One of the freshest and newest shoe drops in the market is a mix of Yeezys, Jordans, and New Balance sneakers. But most hypebeast fans are aiming to get their hands on the Foam Runner Vermillion. This hot red release reminds fans of the iconic Yeezy Red October that was released years ago which makes it even more memorable.

If you’re gifting someone who’s most likely updated on sneaker news, you might want to consider wrapping up a gift box with this pair inside.

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