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Top 15 Underrated Sneaker Brands Part 2
This week we show you another five great brands. Feast your eyes on these…….
6. Gravis
Gravis are a brand that you’d look at and think ‘not really for me.’ That’s what I initially thought when I saw them in Topman. But they’ve now upped their game. Their LOWDOWN HC MNS and STANTON MID’s may be a little simple and don’t exactly break any boundaries in terms of innovative design, but they’re a nice little alternative to Vans.
Experimenting with new brands is something I’ve grown to love. It’s time for others to follow.
7. PF Flyers
If Gravis are your alternative to Vans, the PF Fylers are the flipside to Converse. Originally known as Posture Foundation due to their patented insole technology back in 1933, PF Flyers do some great canvas style pumps that are perfect for rocking with trousers as well as jeans.
Our pick of the bunch would have to be their Glide collection; a high top basketball sneaker- these carry with them a 70’s vintage look. Definately a pair of kicks that your boys won’t have heard of.
8. Pointer
The Pointer brand has always been a favourite here at Individualism. These smart sneakers really work well on a number of levels; the design is simple whilst paying homage to many classic men’s shoe styles. Pointer can be seen as the mature man’s sneaker/trainer.
9. Striipe
Striipe is a brand that originally began out in Denmark and have since been expanding throughout Europe. A great little brand that works colour really well into their designs.
10. Creative Recreation
Why this LA based brand hasn’t blown up over on these shores is one of life’s mysteries. Maybe it’s because of their branding strategy…but we’ll never know.
But what we do know is that they have been producing fantastic trainers for over five years now and have a massive following over in the States. The Cesario (above left) is their most iconic design. With 100’s of colourways, you’re really spoilt for choice. It’s not a matter of IF you’re going to get them but WHEN!
Stay Stylish,
Aaron C.
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A Style Lesson from New York – Keep Your Trainers Clean!
Wow, I’m finally back and up-and-running! Although I’m a little sad to leave, it does actually feel good to get back into the daily routine. With all that relaxing, shopping and eating, in a way, I felt a little guilty for not doing anything constructive. Oh well…no REAL regrets though. Ha!
Anyway, as promised, I brought back valuable experience that I’m now going to share with you.
The average American male isn’t usually known for his style. When it comes to classic tailoring or high fashion, Europe usually leads the way. However, the one thing the Yanks do extremely well at is street style.
Many of the aspects that influence the global phenomenon that is street style originated and was created over there, with Hip Hop and Skate culture being the most obvious. So when it comes to footwear (in particular trainers), they really know their stuff.
One thing that we promote as style consultants is cleanliness. This can be a touchy subject, as certain men’s style and swagger lie in the fact that they like to keep things looking scruffy, messy or ‘natural’ so to speak. But the main rule of thumb is that if you’re trying to avoid pulling off the scruffy/indie look, your clothes, especially your shoes, should always be kept clean.
This is of even greater importance when concerning white trainers. And over these shores, it’s something we are notoriously bad at.
Many people say it’s hard work or too expensive to keep buying trainers to maintain that fresh look.
Bollocks.
I was staying in both Brooklyn and Queens, two areas not particularly known for being the most well off but I saw so many men wearing their trainers with pride and they were absolutely fresh to death.
I soon began to notice that there wasn’t one single person whose shoes were actually scruffy. It truly was a breath of fresh air.
From now on, we don’t want to see ANYONE wasting their time rocking filthy kicks. It’s all about details and nothing kills a great outfit like a dirty pair of tramp-like shoes.
I was so impressed by their high shoe standards, that I went around and took pictures of them. Take a look at the way these guys keep their shoes looking fresh, and notice how great they look.
So, as you’ve just witnessed, the men of Manhattan keep their sneakers in mint condition. They even go the extra mile and wear plastic bags over their trainers when it rains. Now THAT is respecting the footwear!
(Though we don’t expect this from you!)
As Always,
Stay Stylish
Aaron C.
Related posts: Cleaning Trainers With Baby Wipes, Cleaning Trainers With A Pillow Case
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Facebook Page: Individualism Group
Forum: www.individualism.co.uk/forum
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Creative Recreation – Cesario
I couldn’t do it. I couldn’t wait! I’m sorry. This week’s ‘Product of The Week’ may seem more like summer wear, but I couldn’t wait two more seasons to show it to you. To me, this is more like a ‘Product of The Year.’
These are one of the sexiest pair of kicks I’ve ever seen from my favorite trainer creators, Cre8tive Recreation. This Cesario colour way is called Ash, Cement, Salmon and Black. Mmmmmm…tasty. They feel as comfortable and supportive as the average basketball boot yet can provide a formal flavour to accompany both jeans, shorts and wait for it….TROUSERS. Yes, I said it people…Trousers.
It’s a little more expensive then some of the other ‘Product of The Week’ garments, but definitely a wise style investment. You’ll have to jump on Ebay (£30 – £50) or buy direct from the States (a little more) until I find a store that still stocks them here in the UK. Check out more colours on the link below and watch the video clip to find out what inspired the creators of this beautiful brand to bridge the gap between formal and casual/athletic shoes.
http://www.cr8tiverecreation.com/choice/
As Always,
Stay Stylish
Reuben C.
Related posts: Bape Store London Opening, Alpine Stars, Supra Sample Sale, Top 15 Underrated Sneaker Brands
Twitter Page: www.twitter.com/individualism
Facebook Page: Individualism Group
Forum: www.individualism.co.uk/forum
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