15/08/2025
We all know there are collectors out there for everything, and part of our job is to help facilitate the ever continuing evolution of collections via auction. Little wonder then that in the auction industry, we’re constantly in contact with that rare breed of person – the Collector. Collectors are incredibly passionate people. Each a source of endless information of the focus of their passion, and always with tales to tell of where this or that was picked up. That is certainly no different with the latest collection we present via our Timed Online Auctions – The Sneaker Collection of Mr G.
A legendary figure on the British Dance/ House scene since coming onto the scene in the early 1990s, Mr. G – Colin McBean - has DJ’d the world over to audiences long into the night ever since. As passionate as he is with his music, his foundations and interest in fashion comes to the floor with his love of the humble Sneaker. Now sharing some of his stories with you as an introduction to his Sneaker Collection – over to you Mr G…
My Sneaker Collection: Style, Stories, and Sole Swaps
Over the years, I’ve collected sneakers not just for their design, but for the memories they carry. Some of these shoes I won in competitions, but most I bought after gigs across the world. Each pair has its own story, its own moment in time. Below, I’ve listed some highlights from my collection — a mix of rare releases, personal customs, and old-school gems.
The Icons and the Memories
The Nike Air Jordan is something truly special. The pair offered in lot 10 I won in a raffle years ago, and the quality still amazes me — real old-school Nike craftsmanship. Then there's the New Balance 574, which I bought right after my first gig at Berghain in Berlin — the first time I ever played techno house in a club! That moment alone makes them priceless.
Nike Air Stab is one of those rarities, banned due to its name. Then there’s the Clarks Wallabee GTK — vibrant purple, just how I like it. Purple sneakers? All day long! Nike Air Max 1 Day stands out from the yearly Air Max drops. This pair is my favourite by far. I even have two!
Shoes Just to Look At
Some sneakers I’ve bought simply because I love how they look. The Adidas Matchcourt Mid is a good example — the embroidery is beautiful. Then there’s my custom Nike By You pairs, which all feature “Mr G” on the back heel. Personal and limited.
The Nike Court Force is another stunner, heavy and stylish, with that rich blue leather. The Nike Air Rise has sentimental value — I bought them in Chicago in the 90s after a gig, with just enough cash left to bring home a pair.
Sneakers with Street Stories
Some pickups came from wild moments — like the Supreme Wallabee. I queued outside the Supreme drop in Soho when Liam Gallagher and his son showed up. Because I knew the guy in the shop, I got in early. Liam bought three pairs, his son two, and I grabbed two myself. We couldn’t leave due to the crowds. A mad experience!
The Nike Dunk Low SP and Nike Air Max 90 are classics, showcasing the era’s quality and unforgettable colourways.
Another gem, the Nike Jordan Retro 11, takes me back to the old days of sneaker shopping on Broadway in NYC. Real history in that one. Then there’s the Nike Air Huarache Light — rare green colourway and premium leather.
The Rest of the Hall of Fame
There’s a special story tied to the Kenzo Paris Toile Imprimée — I spotted them from my hotel window in Montreal and ran to grab them post-gig. Pure spontaneity.
More favourites include the New Balance 1500 — clean and classic, and the Adidas SST — bought just to look at, since flat feet make them hard to wear.
Sneakers That Stay on the Shelf
Some shoes were never meant to be worn. Nike SF Airforce 1 Too beautiful. They just sit and shine. Others like the Nike Talaria Boot or Air Huarache Light represent craftsmanship from a different time.
The Nike Air CB4 II and Air Force 180 scream classic basketball. The North Face Skagit Water Shoe and the Vans Supreme Skate Half Cab — again, just cool pieces I had to have.
Stories Worth Telling
The Nike Air Max 97, has one of my favourite colourways despite the aging sole. The Nike 25 PSI, Air Max Dolce, and Air Max 1 87 showcase different eras of Nike experimentation — some great, some less so.
Final Thoughts
Every sneaker in this auction is more than just a product — it’s a memory, a moment, a reflection of style and era, each one represents a chapter in my journey — across gigs, cities, scenes, and styles.
If something caught your eye, move quickly — some of these are personal, rare, and won’t be around for long. Thanks for stepping into my world, one sneaker at a time.
The full online catalogue can be viewed here : SNEAKERS - The Private Collection of Mr G
This auction is held as a Timed Online format, with bidding closing on Tuesday 26th August from 7pm. Lot closing times are staggered every 30 seconds, and bid times wil be extended on lots that have bids placed within 5 minutes of closing.
