How does one handle being compared to the likes of Outkast, UGK, and David Banner at age 24? Humbly. That is, if you’re Big K.R.I.T. The rapper/producer has risen out of the Mississippi mist thanks to his soulful sound, charismatic flow, and self reliant style. Honest lyrics, and a passion for production, have given him more than just a co-sign from hip hop’s hierarchy, they’ve also given him access to things that were hard to get as a kid. Things like sneakers. We caught up with K.R.I.T. to discuss his affinity for Spizikes, early love for Jordans, and how hard work can keep one away from kicks. We also got into the music by discussing his favorite tracks off the recently released Returnof4eva album, his dream collaborations, and sticking to his roots. Read on to see what the hometown hero had to say.

Nice Kicks: You’ve been on the road a lot lately. What sneakers do you bring on tour?

Big K.R.I.T.: Man, Spizikes! I keep Spizikes and I got some (Air Jordan) 2s, but I really don’t f**k with them. I got Polo Boots believe it or not, got some Spizike Boots, but those are hard to perform in. I really just stay with the OG Spizikes, the Black/Green-Red ones, and that’s what everybody is really seeing me wear because they are so damn comfortable. And I got Air Maxes.

Nice Kicks: Growing up what kind of shoes were you into?

Big K.R.I.T.: Believe it or not, I always loved Jordans, but growing up, I really couldn’t afford them. It was like a hand-me-down kind of thing. There was some Pumas in there, K-Swiss here and there and Reebok Soldiers. For the most part, now that things are popping, I get my choice of sneakers and again it’s the Spizikes

Nice Kicks: How has success changed being able to get kicks?

Big K.R.I.T.: Now you meet people and they’re really excited to put you onto different stuff, especially when they see my passion for sneakers and just for being fly. You run into to people and they’ll be like, “Have these! Check these out!” To go to Flight Club in New York, where I couldn’t travel (before) and see their ever-living supply of shoes, it’s like a candy store. It definitely helps, musically, just being able to get a little fresher than I could when I was younger.

Nice Kicks: Any pairs you’re looking for?

Big K.R.I.T.: I’ve been so on the road (that) I haven’t had the opportunity to really just indulge. I managed to get those Olympic 7s for the XXL cover shoot which is really something I wanted to make happen, but other than that I didn’t really have the opportunity. Returnof4eva kept me in the studio and locked away from everything. I’m gonna get back up on it though. What’s coming out now? Let me know what’s good.

Nice Kicks: Well the “Concord” 11s are coming back in the winter, and the “True Blue” Air Jordan 3s are dropping this summer.

Big K.R.I.T.: That’s the move. I think I’m gonna roll with the True Blue 3s.

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