Also this issue: The Style Issue Philly Sole A New Sensation This just in: Stylish shoes don’t (always) have to hurt. -Helen i-lin Hwang Good Moves Get in shape for spring and summer shoes. -Debra Auspitz Plat Fall One writer’s tale of high-heeled woe. -Trish Boppert Foot for Thought -Meredith Broussard Henri David -D.A Too Pretty, Baby? Kids’ shoes are taking a sexy turn, and the results can be disturbing. -Trish Boppert Martha Chamberlain -Lori Hill

April 17-23, 2003

cover story

Mason Warner

Name: Mason Warner

Obsession:

Nikes. Warner’s South Philly rowhome is filled to the brim with over 300 pairs, the majority of which have never been worn and are kept in mint condition in their boxes. Warner’s impressive collection includes not just his own size-10s but kids’ shoes and miniature Nike collectibles (30 of those).

When he officially started collecting:

"Three years ago, though I’ve always rocked the Nikes."

Day job:

Warner works in the visual department at Urban Outfitters, designing and helping to launch new stores.

Why Nike?

"It’s all about Michael Jordan. [As a kid,] he was my superman. And Nike’s got the hottest designs and colorways."

Getting connected:

Warner gets a lot of his shoes from eBay and other Internet sites. He also makes online trades, swapping U.S. versions for European designs.

Shoes become art:

Last September, Warner created a gallery show out of his collection at American Mortals on Walnut Street. "I had 45 or 50 pairs on display. Only the quality, A+++ stuff."

Misunderstood artist:

Despite Warner’s insistence that his collection is an investment (a few of his pairs are currently worth $700 to $1,000 each), he takes some good-natured ribbing from his family, friends and girlfriend. Someday they may have to do an intervention -- Warner admits "it’s addicting."

—Debra Auspitz