Partnerships have been the way to go in recent months, especially among the big five. Puma has penned a new collaboration with the likes of one of London’s most renowned sneaker stores, Footpatrol. The latest collaboration sees the launch of the all-new Tsugi in the form of the Tsugi Shinsei Footpatrol.
Footpatrol was found in 2002 and has since supplied the most desirable footwear, apparel and accessories, which span from new and classic designs to a number of exclusives and rare deadstock. The range of items follows a wide and diversified selection for every sneakerhead, with Footpatrol also recognised for numerous other collaborations with some of the most prominent brands across the industry.
The release of the Tsugi Shinsei Footpatrol follows on from numerous iterations of the Tsugi range, which first released in May 2017 with a previous successful launch of the Tsugi Jun in November. The sneaker already derives quite a heavy influence from Japanese culture and extends this with their latest release in the form of a decorative reinforcement in the stitching. The stitching technique is practised in Japan and is known as Sashiko, traditionally used to reinforce points of wear and tear, while also adding some flair to the design. The pattern chosen for the stitching resembles Footpatrol’s close-knit team ethos. On a recent trip to Japan, the design team met with Sashiko expert Akie Ginza, who has over 40 years experience in the practice under her belt. Akie provided great insight into the origins and meaning of Sashika, having moved from a technical process to an impressive art form.
The Tsugi Shinsei Footpatrol will be available in two colourways at the start, which includes Capulet Olive and Birch. The Olive colourway features an earthy rubber outsole, along with a premium grain leather, nubuck and cotton canvas weave upper with a knitted inner sock. The tongue and quarter panels feature the uniquely embroidered and laser-etched Sashiko pattern. In addition to this texture, the silhouette also features the Footpatrol ‘Gas Mask’ logo embossed on the rear heel stamp. The laces also feature a special touch with coloured beads and reflective flecks.
The Tsugi Shinsei Footpatrol, with its Sashiko pattern, will be available from 16th December 2017 exclusively at Shelflife, in the Capulet Olive and Birch colourways. The sneaker will retail for R3,699 when released.
