Community Collections is back with another sneaker stocker this week that hails from the City of Brotherly Love. Nate Herko has been in the circle since 1989, stocking up in Philadelphia on what originally got him started 25 years ago, Air Jordan and Nike silhouettes. After compiling a stash of shoes over two decades, NikeNate was forced to reset his collection and start from scratch just two years ago. Now back in the game with an array of classics and new models alike, this footwear fiend keeps his new setup in a designated sneaker room on display.
Read through the feature to hear Nate’s sneaker story, get his advice to the next generation, and see some of his personal favorites including his Most Rare Pair and Most Frequent Wear. Drop a line with your feedback in the comment section at the bottom of the page, and keep refreshing Nice Kicks for everything sneakers.
Profile:
Name: Nate Herko
City: Philadelphia, PA
Instagram: @nikenate21
Size: 9
Started: 1989
Sneaker Story:
“My kick revolution began in Philadelphia in 1989 with the Air Jordan 4s. Raised by a single mom, I had to work hard to buy my first pair. Featured in the NBA, the Jordan 4s inspired my current sneakerhead life. Collections were always a hobby of mine, starting with baseball cards, moving on to Sports Illustrated, and finally settling with sneakers. Having three children by 26 meant that circumstances changed how often I could add to my sneaker collection, but I’m heading toward a fresh start and hope to add more sneakers than ever before. I had to start from scratch two years ago, and won’t let history repeat itself. I believe in enjoying sneakers, not just collecting them. I buy and wear them the way they’re supposed to be worn. I don’t mind a crease or two, it’s a natural thing that sneakers do. Opening a brand new box, smelling fresh kicks and wearing them for the first time is always an amazing experience. Thanks to social networking, things are much different than 25 years ago, and I’m able to share my joys worldwide. I give credit to old sneakerheads everywhere and appreciate the challenge that new sneakerheads face.
I have a simple message to each group: Don’t look down on or discourage future sneakerheads, because after all, you had to start somewhere too.”
