THE SNEAKERHEADIT: JOHN WOLL

‘At first sight, this might seem like a pretty standard NMD_CS2, the shoe that adidas first introduced as the “City Sock”. But, for me, as a big fan of the whole NMD family, adidas really nailed it with this one. Take the colours of the very first and still sought-after NMD_R1 model, combine them with an updated shape and you've got yourself a newcomer with the vibe of a welcome comeback. For this one, there may not be any campouts in Berlin, but it brings back good memories from that first drop.’

‘adidas is really betting on the bulky sole trend with this one, and the odds are looking good to me. Handily, Europe's biggest sneakerheads have predicted that stacked soles will be going strong in 2018, too. I was actually really surprised how special this shoe looks for a general release: a nice and rugged orange-grey upper with oversized stripes and toebox detailing. Out there but wearable – I’m all in on this new shape and what it stands for in streetwear.’

‘If someone would have asked my younger self which model I would choose for a trip to a sad, sad (so sad) world where there is only one pair of kicks, this would have been my go-to. In Berlin, all-white lows are still a certified classic that knows no seasons. While my interest was taken further afield over the years, these Flax pack high-tops – with that creamy premium nubuck – made it really easy for me to come back to Air Forces like an old friend.’

‘Such a classic silhouette and, according to my entirely unofficial census, the most-worn sneaker model in Berlin over the last year. The Old Skool is having a big moment and I think it’s down to the combination of an incredibly versatile look and a build that can take a beating. I love this particular colourway because the gum friction tape on the toe works perfectly as a small but distinctive feature to make them stand out. Bonus points for black eyelets and laces.’

‘Since the re-release in 2016, the Nike Air Max 97 has been going strong in Berlin – especially in Mitte, where Gold and Silver Bullets pop up all the time. But I prefer its older brother, the Air Max 95, with its bulkier aesthetic that makes it a little bit more future-proof in my eyes. What's for sure: this premium edition with an all-black upper is the perfect everyday wear for a ride on the always-cramped U1 train.’

‘Honourable mention: Germans love their adilettes, and while most will resort to rocking them on vacation or by the pool, this is considered proper footwear for nearly every occasion in Berlin. As soon as the frost melts, this slipper from the Three Stripes will be out there everywhere again.’