Great pairs come with great responsibility, and our women always show up.
This International Women’s Month, we’re celebrating and spotlighting some of the most influential women in sneaker and fashion culture.
Continuing Her Pair, Her Power series, we catch up with Barcelona-based sneaker collector Ariadna (AKA Ari's Sneakers) From working in healthcare to building up an impressive Air Max collection, Ari certainly knows the importance of looking after what she loves.
Find out what it’s really like to be in her sneakers.
Crep Protect: Hey Ari, we’re gassed to have you in our hot seat for International Women’s Month. To kick off this interview, we want to ask how you’ve been?
Ariadna: I’ve been really well, thank you! It’s been a season of growth and reflection for me, so being part of International Women’s Month feels especially meaningful. This time of year, always reminds me of the power of community and women supporting women, so I’m excited to be part of this interview.
CP: For anyone unfamiliar with yourself or your work. Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?
A: Honestly, whenever I’m asked this question, I find it a bit hard to answer. It’s like when someone asks you to describe yourself, it always feels easier when someone else does it for you, right?
I work in the healthcare sector, mainly with children, which is something that fulfils me both personally and professionally. I also have a strong passion for design, especially graphic and interior design.
Although it’s not my profession, travelling is one of my greatest passions. I love capturing each experience through photos and videos because, even though memories stay in your mind, I truly enjoy turning them into something tangible — travel albums, videos, and little creative projects that allow me to relive those special moments.
And even if it might not seem directly related, I’m also interested in fashion. I’m not an expert, but I enjoy experimenting, putting outfits together in my own way, and taking the time to create looks that reflect my personality.
CP: When did your love for sneakers and collecting all start for you?
A: My passion for sneakers started in 2015. I’ve always had good grades in school, and to reward my effort, my parents would usually give me a small gift at the end of the school year.
That year, I saw my sister wearing a pair of Air Max 90s and I instantly loved them. After that, I started doing some research on my own and discovered the Air Max 1. It was love at first sight. I immediately knew that was my model.
We went to the Nike store in Barcelona, and I told my parents those were the sneakers I wanted. From that moment on, everything changed. I also had a friend who collected Air Max 1s, so I asked her how to get them, where to find them, and how to really get into the sneaker world. And that’s how it all began — a journey that continues to this day.
CP: We see you have an avid Air Max collection. If you could design your own custom pair, what would they look like?
A: In 2024, I had the chance to make one of my biggest dreams come true: creating my very own Air Max 1.
For over six months, I immersed myself in the process, carefully selecting every material and designing every detail of the sneaker. Nothing was left to chance. The pink, the zebra print, the corduroy, the glossy finishes… every element was planned down to the last millimetre. Even the tongue features “Ari Sneakers” as a personal signature of the project.
But I didn’t stop at the sneaker itself. I also personalized the box, extending the concept to every detail. I designed vinyls using the same materials as the sneaker to apply to the box, created an illustrated card as if it were the official spec sheet of the model, and redesigned the size tag with a QR code that, when scanned, takes you directly to my Instagram (@arissneakers).
It was a completely personal project, made with an obsession for detail and a lot of care. A dream I never imagined I could achieve… and one that ended up exceeding all my expectations.
CP: What is the sneaker scene/ community like in Barcelona? Do you think there are any differences and similarities between the UK/US sneaker scenes?
A: The sneaker scene in Barcelona is quite diverse — it’s a really interesting mix of street culture and fashion. What I value the most are the local stores, because those are the ones I support the most. That’s where I truly find my style and where I feel the most comfortable shopping.
A few years ago, these stores used to host more limited-edition drops and community events that really brought sneakerheads together. It still happens occasionally, but not with the same intensity. Back then, lining up for a release or just being in-store during a drop was such an organic way to meet people from the community. There was a special energy around it — it felt authentic and fun.
I really love the UK community. There’s something about their fashion and sneaker culture that I connect with much more. I feel like people there live it in a way that’s closer to how I experience sneakers — as a true form of self-expression, not just a trend.
When comparing it to the UK and the US, there are definitely similarities, like the excitement around limited releases and the way sneaker culture intersects with fashion. However, in the US the scene tends to be more rooted in basketball and sports heritage, whereas in Europe — including Barcelona and the UK — there’s a stronger influence from streetwear, music, fashion, and retro styles.
CP: Could you give us a rundown of how you keep your sneakers fresh?
A: I love this question because it’s something my friends always say to me. They’ll look at my sneakers and go, “Wait… are those new?” and I’m like, “No — I just take really good care of them!” hahaha.
I genuinely like keeping my sneakers looking as fresh as possible. I always carry Crep Protect wipes in my bag in case they get dirty while I’m out — but to be honest, I try to avoid that happening in the first place. I’m quite strategic about it. I have certain pairs for rainy days (or when it even looks like it might rain), others for concerts, others for everyday wear… I like choosing my sneakers depending on the plan.
When I get home, I clean the soles, let them air out, and the next day they go back into their boxes.
"For me, it’s not just about keeping them clean, it’s about respecting something that’s part of my style and identity. Sneakers are more than just shoes to me, so I treat them with care."
CP: Quickfire round, what are your top 3 sneakers in your collection?
A: Without a doubt, the first choice would be my Bespoke. Next, the Air Max 1 Denham; anyone who knows me knows I could easily have 20 identical pairs… haha! Just kidding, but they really are among my favorites.
As for my top 3, it’s hard to choose because the Air Max 1 will always be there. But if I had to highlight a pair that isn’t an Air Max 1 or from Nike, I’d say my last pick-up: the Salomon x Maison Margiela (beige ones).
CP: As an influential woman within the sneaker scene, what does International Women’s Month mean to you?
A: For me, International Women’s Month is about visibility, but also responsibility. As a woman in the sneaker space — which has historically been very male-dominated — I see it as an opportunity to acknowledge the women who paved the way for us, while also continuing to create space for the next generation.
I don’t see it as just a celebration, but as a reminder that there’s still work to be done — in terms of representation, opportunities, and how women’s stories are told within sneaker culture.
"It’s also a beautiful moment for the community. I love seeing women in this industry supporting each other, collaborating, and building their own platforms. That’s what truly drives change."
CP: What change would you like to see from the sneaker industry? Also, what do you think the sneaker industry will be like in 5 years?
A: From my perspective, I would like to see collaborations that truly add value, rather than simple general release drops with materials that don’t live up to the price point or the expectations set around them.
As a collector of the Air Max 1, I really miss that attention to detail and the clear intention behind each release. Sometimes it feels like certain models are launched just to fill a calendar slot, rather than out of genuine passion or respect for the history they represent.
I’d like to see a shift in how sneaker storytelling is developed—more authentic, cohesive narratives that are truly connected to culture and the consumer, instead of surface-level concepts created simply to justify a drop.
In five years, I believe the sneaker industry will be more technology-driven while also becoming more community-focused.
On one hand, we’ll see greater innovation in materials, customization, and possibly AI-assisted design. On the other hand, brands will need to build stronger emotional connections with their audiences, rather than relying solely on hype-driven releases.
I also think that the resale platforms will continue to influence pricing and demand, but consumers will become increasingly selective and more conscious about their purchasing decisions.
Overall, I believe the future will belong to brands that successfully combine innovation, sustainability, and culture in an authentic way.
CP: Are there any exciting upcoming projects that you are working on in 2026 that you can share with us?
A: I’ve been working on a very special project for almost two years now. It’s been an intense process—full of details, iterations, and a real obsession with getting everything right. That’s exactly why I can’t share anything yet. I strongly believe that until something matches your exact vision, it’s better to let the work speak for itself when it’s truly ready.
I’m not sure if it will be finished this year, but what I can say is this: when it finally drops, true fans of the Air Max 1 will understand why it was worth the wait.
CP: What advice would you give to the young individuals who want to get into collecting?
A: I would tell young individuals who want to get into sneaker collecting to start with passion and patience. Collecting isn’t just about owning the latest hype drop—it’s about understanding the culture, the history behind each model, and what truly resonates with you personally.
It’s also important to educate yourself. Research brands, collaborations, materials, and the stories behind iconic releases. Start small if needed, focus on pieces you genuinely love, and build your collection thoughtfully rather than chasing trends or resale value.
CP: Thanks, Ari, it’s been great to find out more about yourself! Are there any lasting words that you would like to share with the Crep Protect family?
A: For me, sneakers aren’t just sneakers, they’re stories we wear. So my words would be: ‘Take care of what you love, learn its story, and enjoy it with passion.’ That’s how I’ve always approached my collection, and I hope it inspires others to do the same.
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