We’re back with another instalment of 5Qs and 5As, the interview series where we delve deeper into Team KLEKT member’s sneaker careers. Today we’re speaking to Julian Beck aka @theytookj, one of Munich’s biggest sneakerheads. From an early age, Julian knew that his passion for sneakers wasn’t like his peers. After getting a pair of Nike basketball shoes as a child, Julian would start his long love affair with all things footwear.
Today we’ll be talking to Julian to find out more about his sneaker journey to this point. You’ll get to know more about the man behind the lens of @theytookj, what his favourite pairs are and just how his fashion sense has attracted a big audience. Make sure you follow Julian on Instagram as there’ll be a special promo running this weekend followers. Without further delay, this is 5Qs and 5As with @theytookj!
Hey, it’s great to have you here. Can you please introduce yourself?
Hey guys, thanks for having me. My name is Julian Beck, I’m from Munich and I work in the hospitality and events business. I’ve always been flamboyant when it comes to fashion, so I started taking photos of my outfits. One thing led to another and that’s how I started with my Instagram!
How did your passion for sneakers start?
From a young age, I always had an interest in sneakers. Back in school, I got my first Nike basketball shoe and I was so happy. It’s sad because I can’t remember the exact model name! I’ve only been collecting sneakers for around seven or eight years, but I started off with more high-end brands like Gucci and MCM. I’ve been building my collection ever since.
What was your last sneaker purchase?
It was the Aime Leon Doré x New Balance P550 “Natural Green.” I love this pair and it’s super easy to style. The shoe is a great summer sneaker and goes with everything from shorts to jogger to denim.
What is the most you have spent on a sneaker and why is this shoe so special to you?
The Off-White™ x Air Jordan 1 “UNC” was my most expensive sneaker purchase, costing around €800. I needed it in order to complete my Off-White™ Jordan 1 set and although it is definitely way too much money for a sneaker, it turned out to be an investment. I won’t be selling these any time soon.
So, Julian, can you tell us the top five pairs in your collection?
This is a hard one:
1. First of all the Off-White™ x Air Jordan 1 “Chicago.” This is the nicest shoe with the best story in my collection and I also got it for retail so that’s why it’s an all-time keeper.
2. The Fear of God x Vans Era 95. I got this pair from Pacsun back in the day and it’s just a great summer shoe.
3. Next would be the Comme des Garçons x Nike Air Force 1 Mid. The shoe is of great quality, sick design and fits every occasion.
4. Then it would be the adidas Yeezy Boost 350 “Turtle Dove.” This is one of the few Yeezy pairs I actually kept in my collection, because it’s a part of sneaker history for me and it’s just such a comfy shoe.
5. Last is the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 4 “Blue,” this is one of my favourites because it has a story behind it too. Back when it came out I was working a lot with Kickz93 and they actually gifted them to me as one of my first big sneakers.
Make sure you follow Julian on Instagram!
