TOPIC
THE INTERNAL METAMORPHOSIS OF KERMIT TESORO
Berlin had several days of tropical weather at the beginning of summer, experiencing pockets of heatwaves with temperatures soaring up to 30C that can often feel like a scorching burn of 40C. Kermit Tesoro prefers this over the cold weather, which he escapes every winter by going back to the Philippines. He likes European summer though because of its stretched days and delayed sunset. So, it was no surprise that he and his husband, who lives in a stylish apartment in West Berlin, chose to spend the entire summer just a few minutes away at their schrebergarten or kleingarten, Germany’s little garden houses with a small plot of land, which city-dwellers can rent or own to use as their own garden, to grow flowers, vegetables, or enjoy the sun.
When not tending to their home garden–Tesoro claims that they can have enough tomatoes, broccoli, and other vegetables that can last them the entire summer–he works at the Potsdam Botanical Garden, the perfect workplace for an avid horticulturist like himself. This must be a blessing (or a curse) of an artist’s hands: they have to be doing something all the time. And now, Tesoro’s hands are getting busier as he prepares for his latest collection. We were just getting started with our conversation when the rain started to pour, much to Tesoro’s relief as the plants are in dire need of rain water, “It is about time,” he chuckles as we move inside the garden house.
When you search ‘Kermit Tesoro’ on Google, the most prominent image you will find is The Polypodis. Arguably one of his most famous works, the octopus shoes with tentacle heels gain infinite international media mileage, from Vogue to WWD, when it was associated with pop superstar Lady Gaga in 2015. This and several other mind-blowing and eye-popping shoe creations have been worn by celebrities and exhibited in prominent museums from the Spielzeug Welten Museum in Switzerland to the Cube Design Museum in the Netherlands.
Tesoro was gaining attention in Europe. This success made him realise that his works are more appreciated here than in the Philippines. Tesoro considers himself lucky and honored that he was able to showcase his works in Europe, “It has been really nice working with the people here. You really see good fruitions after the exhibitions. You have better feedback, future opportunities. They invite new people who could also be interested in your works. They see one of your works, see potential, and call you directly. That is the machinery on how this all came about.”
After an exhibition in Germany in 2017, Tesoro stayed in Berlin. “It felt like this is my turf. I felt a strong sense of belongingness in the city. I instantly connected with Berlin and it felt very much like home.” The following year, I returned to Berlin and settled down here.
The avant-garde designer was optimistic when he moved to Berlin. But soon discovered that there is a lot to do. “For a foreign person in this profession, it is hard to start in another country because you are really starting from scratch. To be established in what you do, you need a strong sense of familiarity. I had my sense of familiarity in the Philippines. I know where to go to when I need some materials. I know who to talk to if I need assistance. Here, you have to crawl your way up to find these people and places to assist your creativity. It is really challenging. There are opportunities but you really have to find them and deeply immerse yourself.”
Aside from finding his footing as an artist, Tesoro also had to work on himself. “I had to resolve personal issues, thank God that is over now. I think it is important to be outside of your comfort zone, which was Manila for me. It’s important to realise that you have certain issues. We all have. But seeing different places, being in a different atmosphere, or even being lost in translation, they all contribute to make you realise what are your needs, what do you need to do to blend in, how do you cope.”
What is next for Kermit Tesoro? Being heavily influenced by the many things that surround him, from interesting people to thought-provoking exhibitions in Europe, Tesoro took advantage of the situation and engaged himself–leading him to question his aesthetics and noticing the difference with his designs. “Even just walking around, I would think that I can incorporate things in my design. So, I start doing this process, what do I do with it? Itis like creating a thesis statement, you have to start with a problem and think about how would you solve it. That is how different my designs are.”
This is something one can expect on his latest collection, entitled “Leucistic Observations” wherein Tesoro heavily used piña or pineapple fabric because of the contrast he sees. He wanted to manipulate the local Filipino fabric by doing different techniques and patterns that are often used in Europe. Leucism is somewhat similar to albinism, where pigmentation is reduced, just like the colors and materials used in the collection. Based on the themes of each piece, he redefines matrimonial dress, religious uniform, sampaguita flowers, the use of pearls and capiz, and the piña or pineapple fabric. The collection reflects his many observations wherein the color palette is in the range of the Leucistic spectrum. It is scheduled to be exhibited in the Philippine Embassy in Berlin in the coming months.
The rain outside is trickling down and with its slow dripping sound Tesoro reflected on what he’s most proud of as he poured another glass of kombucha with a long and heavy yet satisfied and confident sigh. “I’m proud that I’m now capable of convincing myself that I made it. Not that I made it career-wise but Berlin-wise. That I am able to find the sanity I needed. It was hard to be a young artist in the Philippines because you are confronted with quintessential crisis. Now, I do not have those lingering thoughts anymore. I have matured and I am happy that I get to practice and embrace that maturity on a personal and professional level.”
It is almost midnight and the rain finally stopped. The air is crisp on this Friday night and we are ready to hit the techno clubs in the East. A bit of a different scene of how our humid Friday nights were 10 years ago, easy-going on the eccentric alleys of Cubao Expo in Manila.
Instagram: @kermittesoro
Travel Tips
Go museum-hopping around Europe and check out the designs of Kermit Tesoro in these cities. (image: European map with pins on the following museums)
1. Schoenenkwartier (formerly called Dutch Leather and Shoe Museum) Raadhuisplein 1, 5141 KG Waalwijk, The Netherlands
2. Museu do Calçado R. António José de Oliveira Júnior 591, 3700-204 São João da Madeira, Portugal
3. Pecs Gallery Pécs, Széchenyi tér 14, 7621 Hungary
COMING HOME Tesoro considers Berlin as his home. But when he is back in the Philippines, it feels like he is back home.
PLAYGROUND LUV Finding inspiration everywhere, Tesoro gravitates toward the unexpected and unconventional like his favorite building in Berlin, Internationales Congress Centrum, a Brutalist architecture.
FILIPINO MATERIAL, EUROPEAN TECHNIQUE Known for his avant-garde designs, Tesoro highlights piña or pineapple fabric in his collection “Leucistic Observations” with shoe materials including wood, acrylic, silicone, leather, and nylon. (Photos courtesy of Kermit Tesoro)
DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS A true creative, Tesoro believes that to call yourself a designer, you have to be specific with what you are doing. Art in progress at the apartment he shares with his husband in West Berlin. (Photos courtesy of Kermit Tesoro).
About the author: IETH INOLINO IDZERDA believes that Filipinos in Europe have unique and interesting stories that can inspire and empower. With words and visuals, she hopes to create an impact on the narrative of Filipino arts, culture, and lifestyle in the continent, while staying true to our Filipino roots and soaring high to the future. IETH is based in Amsterdam.
TOPIC
Why Private Transportation Makes Every Amsterdam Journey Better?
Traveling should be exciting—not stressful. Whether you’re arriving for business, a family vacation, or a special event, the quality of your transportation can shape your entire experience. Luxury airport services provide travelers with a seamless, comfortable, and reliable alternative to crowded public transport and unpredictable taxis. From the moment you land, a professional chauffeur ensures your journey begins with convenience, punctuality, and exceptional service.
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TOPIC
How Can the Right Sneaker Shoes Support an Active Lifestyle?
An active lifestyle involves regular movement, whether that means running, walking, training, travelling, working, or managing a busy daily routine. The right sneaker shoes can support these activities by improving comfort, providing stability, and helping the feet move more naturally.
Footwear cannot replace proper training, fitness, or movement habits. However, a suitable pair can make physical activity feel more manageable and reduce unnecessary discomfort caused by poor fit or unsuitable construction.
At Cheetah, men can explore sports-inspired sneaker shoes for training, walking, exercise, and active everyday wear.
Why Are Sneaker Shoes Important for Active People?
Every step creates pressure through the feet. During running, jumping, and exercise, this pressure increases because movement becomes faster and more repetitive.
Sneaker shoes are designed to provide a layer of support between the feet and the ground. Their soles can help soften impact, while the upper construction keeps the foot secure during movement.
For people who remain active throughout the day, athletic footwear may also feel more comfortable than stiff or heavy shoes.
The correct sneaker shoes for an active lifestyle should suit the activity and remain comfortable for the expected duration.
How Do Sneaker Shoes Support Daily Movement?
Daily movement may include walking to work, climbing stairs, travelling, shopping, training, or spending several hours standing.
Sneaker shoes can support these activities through cushioning, flexibility, traction, and secure fitting. A flexible sole allows the foot to move more naturally, while grip provides confidence across different surfaces.
Lightweight construction may also reduce the feeling of heaviness during long days.
A versatile pair can transition between exercise and casual activities, making it useful for men who maintain busy routines.
Can Sneaker Shoes Improve Workout Comfort?
Suitable footwear can make exercise feel more comfortable by supporting the type of movement involved.
Running sneakers can soften repeated impact, while training footwear may provide better stability for gym exercises. Shoes with breathable materials can also reduce the uncomfortable buildup of heat during longer sessions.
Poorly fitted footwear can distract from a workout by causing pressure, slipping, or rubbing.
Choosing comfortable sneaker shoes for training allows you to focus more on the exercise instead of constantly adjusting your footwear.
Why Does Stability Matter?
Stability helps the foot remain controlled during movement. It is particularly important during gym training, quick direction changes, lunges, squats, and outdoor activity.
A stable sneaker should hold the heel securely and provide a balanced base. The foot should not slide inside the shoe during movement.
Very soft footwear may feel comfortable initially but may not provide enough control for every exercise. The ideal level of stability depends on the activity.
Training-focused sneaker shoes usually need a balance between cushioning and firmness.
How Does Cushioning Support an Active Routine?
Cushioning helps reduce the harsh feeling of repeated contact with hard surfaces. It can be useful for running, walking, treadmill sessions, travel, and long periods of standing.
Different people prefer different cushioning levels. Some enjoy a softer feel, while others prefer a firmer and more responsive sole.
The right cushioning should feel comfortable without making movement unstable.
Men who regularly walk or run on pavement may particularly appreciate well-balanced cushioned sneaker shoes.
Why Is Flexibility Important in Sneakers?
Flexibility allows the shoe to move with the foot. Footwear that is excessively rigid may restrict the natural rolling motion of walking and running.
However, the entire shoe should not feel weak or unsupported. The right sneaker combines flexibility in movement areas with enough structure around the heel and sides.
For daily exercise and walking, balanced flexibility can make the footwear feel more natural.
People who perform strength exercises may prefer slightly firmer footwear for greater control.
How Does Grip Help Active People?
Grip provides traction between the footwear and the surface. It can improve confidence during outdoor walking, training, and movement on gym floors.
The required level of grip depends on the environment. Outdoor paths, pavement, tracks, and indoor training areas may have different surface conditions.
A suitable outsole should provide traction without adding unnecessary bulk.
Worn soles may lose grip over time, even when the upper part of the shoe still looks acceptable.
Can Breathable Sneakers Improve Comfort?
Breathable materials allow air to move more easily around the foot. This can be helpful during warm weather, intense workouts, and extended walking.
Feet naturally produce heat and moisture during exercise. Footwear that traps too much warmth may become uncomfortable.
Breathability should be combined with support and durability. The shoe must still hold the foot securely during activity.
For active routines in Pakistan’s warmer climate, breathable sports sneaker shoes can be especially useful.
Are Sneaker Shoes Suitable for Travel?
Travel often involves long periods of walking, standing, and moving through airports, stations, shopping areas, or unfamiliar streets.
Comfortable sneakers can make these activities easier because they are usually lighter and more flexible than structured formal footwear.
A neutral design can also complement several travel outfits, reducing the need to pack multiple pairs.
Men choosing travel sneakers should prioritize fit, cushioning, grip, and easy styling.
Can Athletic Sneakers Be Worn Every Day?
Modern athletic footwear can be styled with jeans, joggers, shorts, and casual trousers. This makes sneakers useful beyond workouts.
Men who want one pair for exercise and daily wear should select a clean, versatile design. Black, white, navy, and gray are practical choices.
However, shoes worn during intense workouts should be allowed to air out before being used casually.
Rotating footwear can also help maintain freshness and reduce continuous wear on one pair.
How Should You Choose Sneaker Shoes?
Start by identifying the main activity. Running, walking, gym training, travel, and everyday use may require different features.
Check the fit, sole, cushioning, grip, flexibility, weight, and breathability. The heel should remain stable, and the toes should have enough room for movement.
Do not choose athletic footwear only because it looks fashionable. The pair should feel comfortable and support the way you plan to use it.
When buying sneaker shoes online in Pakistan, compare the size details with athletic footwear you already own.
How Can You Care for Sneaker Shoes?
Regular maintenance can help sneaker shoes remain presentable and comfortable.
Remove dust and dirt using methods suitable for the footwear material. Allow damp sneakers to dry naturally rather than placing them near strong heat.
Air the shoes after exercise and avoid wearing the same pair continuously without allowing it to dry.
Check the soles regularly. Significant wear may reduce traction and cushioning even when the upper material still appears usable.
Support Your Active Lifestyle with Cheetah Sneaker Shoes
The right footwear can support an active lifestyle by improving comfort, stability, grip, flexibility, and confidence during movement.
Running, training, walking, travelling, and everyday activities each place different demands on the feet. Choosing sneaker shoes according to your routine can help you get more value and comfort from every pair.
Explore Cheetah sneaker shoes and find sports-focused footwear for workouts, walking, travel, and active daily living.
TOPIC
Which Men Shoes Are Best for Everyday Wear?
The best men shoes for everyday wear should do more than complete an outfit. They should remain comfortable during long hours, support regular movement, and work with several clothing styles. Whether you are going to work, university, shopping, travelling, or meeting friends, the right footwear can make your daily routine feel easier.
At Servis Shoes, men can explore footwear for different lifestyles and occasions. Casual shoes, sneakers, loafers, sports shoes, sandals, and slippers can all work for everyday use, but the best option depends on how active you are and where you plan to wear them.
What Makes Men Shoes Suitable for Daily Wear?
Everyday footwear should feel comfortable from the moment you put it on. The heel should remain secure, the toes should have enough space, and the sole should support natural movement. Shoes that feel too tight may become painful after several hours, while loose footwear can cause rubbing and instability.
Weight also matters. Lightweight shoes are usually easier to wear during long days because they place less pressure on the feet. Flexible soles can make walking more natural, while soft inner materials may help reduce irritation.
The best daily shoes for men should also complement several outfits. Simple designs and neutral colors usually provide more styling flexibility than footwear created for one specific look.
Are Casual Shoes for Men Good for Everyday Use?
For many people, casual shoes for men are the most practical everyday option. They look more polished than athletic footwear but feel more relaxed than traditional formal shoes.
Casual shoes can be worn to university, informal workplaces, shopping trips, family gatherings, and weekend outings. They pair easily with jeans, chinos, casual trousers, polo shirts, and button-down shirts.
Black, brown, navy, gray, and tan are versatile color choices. These shades can work with several outfits and remain suitable across different seasons.
When selecting casual footwear, consider how long you usually spend walking or standing. A clean design may look stylish, but cushioning, flexibility, and fit will determine whether the shoes remain comfortable throughout the day.
Can Men Wear Sneakers Every Day?
Sneakers have become a popular everyday choice because they combine modern style with practical comfort. Comfortable sneakers for men can work well for travel, university, shopping, casual offices, and social activities.
White sneakers create a clean and contemporary look, especially when paired with jeans or chinos. Black sneakers are more practical for regular use because they usually show less dust and are easy to coordinate with darker clothing. Gray, navy, and beige sneakers offer additional styling flexibility.
Daily sneakers should provide enough cushioning without feeling heavy. The upper material should allow comfortable movement, while the sole should provide suitable grip for regular walking.
Minimal sneakers are often the most versatile because they can be styled with casual and smart-casual outfits without looking overly sporty.
When Are Sports Shoes the Better Choice?
Men with active routines may benefit more from sports shoes for men than standard casual footwear. Sports shoes are suitable for walking, light exercise, gym sessions, travelling, and jobs that involve frequent movement.
They generally offer more cushioning, flexibility, and breathability than structured formal or casual shoes. These features can make a significant difference when you spend several hours on your feet.
However, sports footwear may appear too informal for offices, formal meetings, or family events. It is best suited to active and relaxed settings where comfort and movement are the main priorities.
When choosing sports shoes, consider the type of activity rather than focusing only on appearance. A supportive pair should hold the heel securely and allow the front of the foot to move naturally.
Are Loafers Suitable for Daily Wear?
Loafers for men are an excellent option for anyone who wants footwear that sits between casual and formal. Their slip-on construction makes them convenient, while their refined shape gives outfits a polished appearance.
Brown and tan loafers work well with jeans, chinos, tailored trousers, and traditional clothing. Black loafers can create a more professional look and may be suitable for offices, dinners, and semi-formal gatherings.
For regular wear, choose loafers with a flexible sole and comfortable inner lining. Very stiff styles may look elegant but can become uncomfortable during extended walking.
Loafers are especially useful for men who want one pair that can transition between work, family events, and smart-casual outings.
Which Men Shoes Work with Traditional Clothing?
Footwear for traditional outfits should look balanced without distracting from the clothing. Loafers, sandals, slippers, and simple slip-on shoes can complement shalwar kameez and kurta pajama.
Brown, tan, and black are dependable choices because they work with a wide range of colors. During warmer weather, sandals can provide greater breathability, while loafers may create a more refined appearance for offices and family gatherings.
The best option depends on the occasion. Simple sandals may be suitable for relaxed daily wear, while polished loafers can work better for dinners, celebrations, and professional settings.
How Should Everyday Men Shoes Fit?
Proper fit is essential because daily footwear is worn for extended periods. Your heel should remain stable while walking, but the shoes should not press against the sides or front of your feet.
There should be enough room for your toes to move naturally. If the footwear feels painfully tight when new, it may not become sufficiently comfortable later.
Consider the socks you usually wear. Sports shoes may need slightly more room for thicker socks, while formal and casual styles are often worn with thinner options.
It can also help to assess footwear later in the day, when the feet may feel slightly larger after normal movement.
Which Color Men Shoes Are Best for Daily Wear?
Black is one of the most practical colors because it works with dark trousers, jeans, professional clothing, and traditional outfits. Brown creates a softer appearance and pairs well with navy, beige, gray, cream, and earth-toned clothing.
White sneakers are useful for clean casual looks, while gray and navy footwear provides versatility without requiring the maintenance of bright white shoes.
The best color is one that complements most of your existing wardrobe. A versatile pair will be worn more frequently and usually provide better value than a style that matches only one outfit.
Find Everyday Men Shoes at Servis Shoes
The best everyday shoes depend on your routine. Casual shoes and sneakers are suitable for relaxed daily activities, sports footwear supports active movement, and loafers provide a more polished option. Sandals and slippers may be more comfortable during warm weather and informal routines.
Explore and shop men shoes in Pakistan at Servis Shoes to find footwear for work, university, travel, shopping, family gatherings, and everyday wear. Choose a pair that supports your movement, complements your wardrobe, and remains comfortable throughout the day.
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