Sneakerhead Spotlight: Sonny Keelen

In the inaugural edition of our Sneakerhead Spotlight series, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Sonny Keelen, a sneaker collector and photographer hailing from Dallas, Texas. In this exclusive interview, Sonny shares his journey of discovering his passion for sneakers, delves into the intricacies of his impressive collection, discusses his aspirations for the future, and opens up about the challenges of balancing his sneaker obsession with his roles as a devoted husband and father. Prepare to be inspired by Sonny's story and his deep love for the sneaker culture.

How did you first develop an interest in sneakers?

My love for sneakers started when I was a kid growing up in the projects in New Orleans and seeing a lot of the dope boys with all the fly kicks in which we didn’t have the money for.

What factors do you consider when deciding which sneakers to add to your collection?

When adding sneakers to my collection, I decide on which pair to add based off of materials, nostalgia, and visual appeal.

What is your favorite sneaker in your collection and why does it hold a special place for you?

Bred 4s are my all-time favorite sneakers because that was the first fair that I actually bought with my own money in 1999 and that same year my mom passed away. So that shoe will always hold a special place in my heart.

Can you describe your collection and any particular themes or focuses within it?

One word to describe my collection is nostalgic.

If you could have any sneaker in the world added to your collection, regardless of rarity or price, which one would it be and why?

Bred 4s hands down because they’ll always hold a special place in my heart.

How do you stay updated with the latest sneaker releases and upcoming collaborations?

Twitter and Instagram is my go to.

Have you ever had to track down a rare or limited edition sneaker? Can you share the story behind it?

Never had to. I believe that a rare or limited sneaker doesn’t make my collection.

Are there any specific sneaker collaborations or limited edition releases that you are particularly proud to have in your collection?

I’ll say the Trophy Room x Air Jordan 1 because of the drama behind the release and how I got exclusive access on them from Nike SNKRS.

How do you approach the process of acquiring new sneakers for your collection? Do you prefer to buy them brand new or do you also enjoy hunting for pre-owned gems?

New is the only way for me and I always buy from a reputable source.

How do you ensure the authenticity of the sneakers in your collection?

If it’s not from Nike SNKRS or a reputable source, I don’t want it.

Can you discuss any challenges you’ve faced in maintaining and organizing your sneaker collection?

Having to constantly add new drop fronts whenever I get a new pair of sneakers because I like to keep my kicks in a certain order.

Are there any particular sneaker brands or designers that you are drawn to? Why?

Nothing specific because like I said, I like nostalgic pairs and those come from different brands.

Have you ever customized or modified any sneakers in your collection? If so, what was the process like?

Not really. Only Nike By You if that counts but I’m glad I made my sneakers my own and won’t see anyone with them on.

Can you share any memorable experiences or interactions you’ve had within the sneaker community?

A lot of us from Dallas/Ft. Worth area whom I met on Instagram used to hang out a lot and go to sneaker events together.

How do you balance your passion for collecting sneakers with other aspects of your life?

It’s easy, I just let it flow as I am a full-time employee. I do photography, love sports cars, and I’m a husband and father. It all comes together and works out.

Are there any specific sneaker trends or styles that you find particularly interesting or influential?

Not really, I just let it flow.

Have you ever traded or sold sneakers from your collection? What factors do you consider when deciding to part ways with a pair?

Yes I have. I’ll only trade or sell a pair that I have doubled up on.

How do you take care of your sneakers to ensure their longevity and condition?

I clean them after every wear and store them in a cool environment in my home.

In addition to sneakers, are there any particular clothing brands that you admire or consider your favorites? If so, can you tell us why you resonate with those brands and what draws you to their designs or ethos?

Not really. I just like clothing that I think looks good and boosts my confidence. Nothing specific at all. I may wear something from Wal-Mart or Target today and from Dillard’s or Macy’s the next.

Can you discuss any future goals or aspirations you have as a sneaker collector?

I would really love to do a sneaker magazine for real sneakerheads and collectors in which I do all of the photography for it because that’s something I’ve thought about for a while.