The Obtainer - 8/17/22, Wednesday
↦ Good/Better/Best
Wednesday,August 17th Edition
Have you all jumped on the technical sneaker wave? I’m still putting some feelers out before I fully commit.
- Leon Hedgepeth, Shopping Editor ⋯ @leonhedgepeth
Good/Better/Best
Technical Sneakers
Technical sneakers have made their way into fashion over the last few seasons and they don’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. I blame the chunky soles seen at high-end fashion shows, everyone taking health more seriously during the lockdown and the “normcore” images that are seen in all the Seinfeld memes. Personally, I haven’t jumped on the bandwagon yet, but I am eyeing the JJJJound collaboration with Asics that releases next week.
The commonality of the latest technical sneakers is that they’re able to double for hiking down a trail or trotting around the city—the perfect marriage of “fashion meets function.” Typically, you’ll see thicker soles like a Vibram or EVA for added support. I understand it seems like they could be hard to put together with outfits, but the bigger the shoe, the bigger the fit. Don’t go full GORP but definitely play with proportions. Maybe a baggy cargo that cinches at the bottom or a pair of Nike ACG’s trail pants. There are a ton of great brands that make fashionable tech sneakers that cover a wide range of price points. Depending on how often and where you’ll be wearing them, how much you decide to spend is up to you. We’re here to help point you to the ones worth your money.
The "full-ground contact design" is great for low impact activities but may be too thick for some
The lightest sneaker out of the three clocking in at 8.6 ounces
Suede will be harder to keep clean than standard leather or TPU material
3M reflective stripe to help keep you in sight whenever exercising in low-light hours
Clifton L suede sneaker,$170 by HOKA
A molded OrthoLite sockliner keeps your feet stabilized and provides durability out in the elements
There's a lace lock, but the laces are very thin and could possibly snap when tightening
Unique "mud contagrip" offers traction no matter the surface that's underneath you
Abrasion-resistant TPU material allows you to wear these in any environment
XT-6 sneaker,$190 by Salomon
Features a custom Vibram sole that helps increase stability no matter where you’re walking
The shoe is made with Bio-Dyneema, which is the strongest and lightest material
The 3M reflective material surrounds the shoe unlike the HOKA that only has the strip
For all the bells and whistles the shoe is pushing $300. That’s a lot, especially if you're extremely tough on your shoes.
001 sneaker,$285 by norda
Drops to Watch For
Tracksmith and Puma are teaming up to celebrate the legacy of Speed City, the dominant California men’s collegiate running program of the mid-20th century, whose athletes not only set global standards for performance, but also fought for social justice. The collection is inspired by archival images of the team's signature uniforms and warm-up kits and 5% of sales will go to benefit the work of the Tracksmith Foundation to protect and create opportunities for youth in track and field.
Thursday, August 18th
Levi's is launching its Levi's Made & Crafted collection for Fall/Winter 2022. It offers classic Levi's design with a refreshing take. The classic-meets-playful mix comes out in a moody collection with a darker color palette and a mix of shadow tones and abstract graphics.
Thursday, August 18th
Saturdays NYC collaborates with legendary Japanese bag manufacturer Porter Yoshida again. This time, they’re offering a crossbody bag and a rugged drawstring tote, but cut from durable ripstop nylon.
Available now
Noah’s first drop from the Fall 2022 collection hits stores and online. Designer Brendon Babenzien says “this season is a mix of new experiments and a return to the classics with a hint of the weird.”
Thursday, August 18th
The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.
There’s a difference between a really good, nice fitting polo and the cheaper versions that look, well, cheap. This is a quality shirt that’s now marked down, so take advantage.
$98 / $79by Todd Snyder
A sturdy pair of heritage chinos are paramount for any wardrobe. These are made using a proprietary slub-twill fabric from unbleached and undyed cotton yarns.
$188 / $122by Wythe
Even though summer is dwindling down, you can add color to your fits. This one is a bit boxy making it look like you've had it for years right off the rack.
$80 / $55by Paa
Took @hip around some of my favourite Glasgow spots a few weeks ago.. it didn’t rain… bonus.Thanks to @outlier.gla & @sgr_recordcafe 🤝
August 5