Our Trader Feature Series is the way for our community of Tradeblock members to let us know more about themselves, their passion for sneakers, and their take on the culture. Know a member with a sneaker story to tell? Let us know.
In this article, we're highlighting Rambi, aka @RambiFrancisco on Tradeblock. Here's his story:
Tell us about yourself, and let the Tradeblock community know more about you.
I was born and raised in the Philippines, then moved to Los Angeles when I was 19. I've been a sneakerhead since I was a little kid. I've always been fascinated by Jordan 11 Concords, Penny's, Shaqnosis, and other shoes from the '90s. Now that I'm older, I still enjoy collecting sneakers with my whole family, and Tradeblock has helped me find some gems, but also, I have helped others find the sneakers they want. It's been an amazing experience with Tradeblock, and I hope our community continues to grow!
How did you get into sneakers?
Being a kid from the 90s, it was the golden era of basketball and sneakers. [Air] Jordan 11's, Penny's, Foam's, Shaqnosis, The Answer, Nike Shox. I love them all, and they got me hooked!
What's your hot take or perspective on where the sneaker game and industry are today?
I definitely miss the good ol' days where you can still try on shoes in the store. However, I also like all the advancements in the sneaker game today and see that the young generation is still embracing the culture. I guess I am somewhere in between, but I definitely appreciate it when I meet other OGs in the game!
What's your shoe size?
11 M.
What is your favorite sneaker in your collection, and why?
My favorite has to be my Jordan 1 Dior Lows. I've always been a Jordan 1 guy, but as I've gotten older, I've also gotten into luxury and designer brands. That's why the Dior Lows is a perfect mix of both. After release, I was able to trade for the shoe with an athlete that was fortunate enough to grab the pair for retail!
My Nike Air Yeezy 2 NRG "Pure Platinum" and Fragment Design x Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG are a close second and third. I just love the story and look of both shoes.
What shoe are you looking for, and what would you trade for them?
I owned a pair of Jordan 1 Dior Highs, but they were the wrong size, so I ended up letting them go. I would love to trade for another one that is used in [a] size 11.
What's one silhouette that's super slept on?
Tough question, but I've always thought Jordan 20's have been underrated. I used to own a lot of the colorways because they looked so good on feet.
When and how did you find out about Tradeblock?
I saw it on sneaker groups.
What's your favorite or best trade you've completed on Tradeblock?
I have so many favorite trades on Tradeblock. One favorite trade is when I finally got a used pair of Nike Kobe 6 Protro Grinches. I had the OG pair a long time ago, and I've always wanted to get a used pair in great condition for a good price. Super pumped to be able to do the deal on Tradeblock, and I've been enjoying the Grinches ever since.
What's the worst offer you've ever received, and how did you respond?
I've had so many lowball offers for my Jordan 1 Diors. I've had offers that were less than $1,000 value for them, and I usually just decline the offer immediately.
For new members using Tradeblock, what are your tips and tricks for closing a trade?
Don't be afraid to engage and talk with other members. I enjoy the back and forth, and makes the trade much more fulfilling when you both find common ground you and another trader can be both happy with.
Fill in the blank. I trade because...
It's a way to keep in touch with the sneaker community and helps everyone get the things they're searching for.
Why should someone join Tradeblock?
Tradeblock provides a safe space for sneakerheads to exchange sneakers. I've been able to find my gems, and this enabled my collection to reach a wider audience. In the end, it has saved me money, and I've been able to get sneakers I would have never had in my collection.
Thanks for much for answering our questions, Rambi. How can people get in touch with you?
Tradeblock: @rambifrancisco
Instagram @rambifrancisco
New to The Block?
Tradeblock is a sneaker-trading marketplace that brings back the thrill of sneaker hunting and allows collectors to use their kicks, new and used, as currency rather than paying high resale prices.
Tradeblock was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas. With over 300K members on the app, Tradeblock is the largest sneaker trading marketplace of its kind in the world.
Tradeblock is available to download on both iOS and Android.
Start your Tradeblock Wallet with $5 AND get 50% off your first trade when you sign up for Tradeblock using @rambifrancisco's referral code below.
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