'Friends in the Flow' Creator Spotlight – Paul Norman

This week, we’re excited to introduce Paul Norman, the creative force behind @paulssneakers. Paul’s sneaker photography is simple, clean, and elegant, with stunning studio setups and lighting that make every shot feel like a work of art. Paul’s love for Jordans, Nikes, New Balance, and Adidas is evident in his collection, and we admire how he blends retro and modern aesthetics in both his photography and personal style.

Beyond his visuals, we’re also big fans of the prints and digital wallpapers Paul sells on paulssneakers.com, bringing his passion for sneakers to life in a whole new way. His perspective on sneakers as both art and personal expression resonates deeply with us, and we’re honored to have him as part of The Kingsland Shoe Project community. We can’t wait to see more of your incredible work.

Name: Paul Norman

Social handle: @paulssneakers & paulssneakers.com

How did you get into sneakers/shoes/fashion: I’ve always seen fashion as a way of expressing myself. It’s a way to show your personality without using words. As a kid it was one of the few things I had autonomy over, what I wore each day. Since then, fashion and style have always been something I’ve given a lot of thought to. As for my style, I do think I’m a product of my era. Growing up in the 90s, during the golden age of sneakers and street fashion, I think it was no surprise that I became the sneakerhead I am today. As a kid wearing Jordans, Pennys, and the like was just what you did. We had no idea it would turn into what it is today. As I grew older, I got into adidas shell tops, Reebok classics, and wore a lot of New Balance in college. When I graduated and became a professional, I really got into dress shoes and wore a lot less sneakers. It wasn’t until COVID and watching The Last Dance that I really got back into retros and collecting. It’s been a lot of fun revisiting the sneakers I grew up with and exploring new styles and brands. I think my style will always change and evolve, but right now I’m enjoying all the 90s era street revival.

Favorite shoe/sneaker of all time: My favorite sneaker is hands down the Jordan 4. Tinker Hatfield was revolutionary, and I think the 4 really changed the idea of what sneakers could be. It was such a departure of what had been and took the lid off of what could be in terms of a sneaker. To me, sneakers are art and the 4 is a masterpiece. It’s crazy that a sneaker that’s over 30 years old still looks innovative.

Favorite go-to pairs of shoes: My go-to pair of sneakers are the Black Air Max DN. Those are my running errands dropping off kids at school sneakers. They’re super comfortable and fit my style well. Outside of that you’ll catch me wearing Jordan 1 lows often. It’s just an easy shoe to style, it’s low key, and there are a ton of options.

Shoe that best embodies you and your style: Again, I would have to go with the Jordan 4. It’s a perfect blend between the future and the past. My style is a mix of retro and modern and the 4 really embodies that.

Favorite, most recent pick up: I just picked up the New Balance 1906L in the Rich Oak Suede colorway off GOAT. I love what New Balance is doing right now, I think they are pushing the culture forward.

Describe your shoe care regimen: I’m not too precious with my sneakers. I do my best to keep them clean, but don’t get bent out of shape if they get creases or look a little worn. I do use shoe trees and have recently switched over to Fresh Flows thanks to you guys. I’ll use a sneaker wipe every once in a while and do a full cleaning if they ever get bad. My best advice is to rotate your sneakers to keep your collection looking fresh.

Other passions/hobbies outside of shoes/sneakers/fashion: As a husband and father, I love spoiling on my girls. My wife and I like to try new restaurants, and we love to travel with family and friends and experience new things.

Random fun/interesting fact: My wife and I recently swam with sharks on vacation in Belize with a group of friends we’ve had for 20+ years.