Tag: footpatrol
It’s gone and happened again… Another mystery draw has found its way on to the Footpatrol blog giving you, the community a chance at at some special past launches…
To find out more about this mysterious package, click on the link below to enter!
PLEASE TAKE TIME TO READ THE BELOW!
The rules are simple, you MUST be following @Footpatrol_LDN on social media. You can only enter ONCE for ONE item, you can’t enter for multiple so choose carefully as multiple entries will be cancelled! The mystery draw will close Friday 25th February at 08:00AM GMT so be quick! Winners will be notified via email, good luck!
The London In-store Mystery Draw is now closed!
To enter, you’re required to sign up via the above form, this WON’T be available in-store to sign up on.
In-store winners will be contacted via email informing them of their win. Within this email, winners will be given a set of dates in which they must collect their win from our London store. To collect, you will need to provide the winning email and a valid photographic government ID matching the winners name. NO ONE can collect on the winners behalf. Failure to provide this, or failure to collect within the given dates will result in forfeiting your win.
Among the iconic models within the Air Jordan signature line, the Air Jordan III certainly makes a case for the top pick. Released in 1988, MJ famously wore the AJIII in his 2nd Slam Dunk contest win from the 3-throw line, becoming synonymous to the basketball icon.
Over the years, the Air Jordan III has gone through many iterations and collaborations. However, it’s the clean and subtle approach that deem to capture hearts of the consumer and collectors alike such as the ‘White Cement’ and ‘Black Cement’ respectively. To set the AJIII off in 2022 and carrying on the festivity of the All-Star weekend is the ‘Cardinal’ colourway.
This latest retro bares similar hues from the Air Jordan VII ‘Cardinals’ from 1992. With its signature DNA feature of a clean white leather base and iconic elephant print, the midsole, lining, eyelets and outsole use ‘cardinal red’ along with ‘light curry’ hits.
PLEASE TAKE TIME TO READ THE BELOW!
The London In-store draw is now closed!
ONLINE raffles will now be over on the Footpatrol app, CLICK HERE to download!
To enter, you’re required to sign up via the above forms, these WON’T be available in-store to sign up on.
In-store winners will be contacted via email informing them of their win. Within this email, winners will be given a set of dates in which they must collect their win from our London store. To collect, you will need to provide the winning email and a valid photographic government ID matching the winners name. NO ONE can collect on the winners behalf. Failure to provide this, or failure to collect within the given dates will mean failure to purchase your win.
To sign up to the Online raffle, you will need to download the Footpatrol Launches app and complete a pre-authorisation payment of the retail price of the product plus shipping costs. This will be held until raffle completion. Those successful will have their raffle win posted out to the address entered during sign up. Those unsuccessful will see a return of their funds, this can take up to 5 working days from when the winners have been drawn. The raffle is limited to one entry per household! Multiple entries will be cancelled!
With great discipline comes superior ideas. A forward-thinking masterpiece. Timeless and ahead of its time, 25 years later, here we are still talking about the Nike Air Max 97. Sneaker junkies across the globe unite as we briefly educate you on what you need to know about this iconic footwear emblem.
The year 1997. A pinnacle moment in sneaker history saw the birth of the Nike Air Max 97. Visible air continued to shine but this time throughout the entire midsole as well as a hidden lace up system which enabled Nike to innovate a shoe model loved by many to this day. Air Max was first born in 1987 through Tinker Hatfield’s daring design on the Air Max 1 (originally known as just ‘Air Max’ with experts not knowing how legendary the first of its kind would become therefore naming it the Air Max 1) – a shoe which to many changed lifestyle culture and foot comfort forever. Fast-forward 10 years later and here we are with the updated/futuristic 97 iteration of the legendary line.
As Tinker Hatfield and Sergio Lozano stepped away from Air Max to focus on more performance-based and flagship Nike footwear, the reins were handed over to Christian Tresser – little did he know this moment in his career would stand the test of time amongst sneaker evolution. With a new millennium approaching and technology advancing it was vital Nike kept one step ahead of its competition. Tresser, taking inspiration from rain drops, nods to the Japanese Bullet Train, automobiles, CD’s, the waves of the sea and of course mountain bike frames – the Nike Air Max 97 emerged.
The shoe was a huge hit in Italy, especially the neck-breaking Silver Bullet which had a significant regional elegance to it with a sense of luxury – a fan favourite to the always stylish Italians. This version of the shoe also takes reference from the infamous, high speed, Japanese bullet train which revolutionised the way people travel. With the help of Japanese culture and design, Tresser had a solid base to work from in producing a new vision for Air Max under high pressure and big expectations. The 2 year earlier success of the Nike Air Max 95 (the 110’s to us in the UK), Japan also helped the evolution and innovation of sneaker culture and with this demand, came the need for upgraded premium releases. Connected fact: The small boutique street-style stores in Japan also inspired Footpatrol London’s earlier shop interior decor.
2017 brought the silhouette’s 20th anniversary, a welcomed return with many new retroed versions of some classic colourways, along with some clean in-line and premium itterations, plus some new high heat releases alongside. The year revived the AM97, fueling sneaker addicts to acquire pairs they had once forgotten about. 2017 will be looked back at a key time for the Air Max model. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled on the Footpatrol launches app calendar for what’s coming up in the Nike Air Max line.
Over the years Nike has come up with some truly outstanding Air Max pairs worthy of any sneaker rotation or collection. Here are a few of our favourites picked by the team over at Footpatrol.
Nike Air Max 97 Silver Bullet (See Below)
There have been a few versions of the AM97 Silver Bullet since its beginnings in 1997 – the colourway even inspired further silhouettes in the Nike production line such as TN’s, Zero’s and Jewel’s. The jarring colours scheme inspired by the Japanese Bullet Train and the ripples from a water droplet sets precedent to the Air Max 97 DNA.
Over the years, the Air Max 97 Silver Bullet has retroed only a handful of times since its original release, hence its consistent high demands from consumers and sneaker enthusiasts alike. The iteration from 2012 released along a pack of original Air Max silhouettes and had a slight change with its monochrome black outsole. After its hiatus, the AM97 returned in 2016 with Italy being host to its pre-release due to its huge popularity in the 90’s. With that being said, Nike released the AM97 Silver Bullet in Italian retailers only. The ‘La Silver’ came with special badges which the inline Silver Bullets in 2017 didn’t. In addition to the Italian market, on a separate occasion, a special edition was released with the Italian flag on the heel tab and tongue in very limited numbers.
Nike Air Max 1/97 Sean Wotherspoon – 2017/2018 (See Below)
The most important Air Max Day to this day? The Nike Air Max 1/97 x Sean Wotherspoon for Vote Forward in 2017. Wotherspoon competed alongside our very own former Footpatrol London store employee Alexandra Hackett [a.k.a @miniswoosh]. Sean’s shoe boasted a hybrid of Air Max 1 and 97 whilst structured with contrasting corduroy materials. The campaign elevated Sean’s career as not only a lover of vintage fashion at his consignment stores Round Two but also as a new and upcoming sneaker designer – which has now seen him venture onto adidas. Check out Sean’s latest releases here.
Nike Air Max 97 x Undefeated (UNDFTD) – 2017 (See Below)
Undefeated never seem to miss when it comes to an Air Max collaboration. In 2017 we saw black, white and green versions of the shoe. Not easy to spot nowadays, a rare commodity and a sneaker many people wish they had bought. Undefeated branding ran through the waves as well as their iconic logo on the tongue of the sneaker.
Nike Air Max 97 x Skepta 2017 (See Below)
A key player in Nikes locker – another 2017 release saw our very own UK resident MC and Grime artist Skepta collaborate with Nike on a jaw dropping colour scheme on a Ultra variation of the 97 which boosted his recognition not only in music but in fashion, design and all round pop-culture status. Skepta has since gone on to make several key Nike models including a Nike Air Max Deluxe as well as a Air Max Tailwind V.
Around that time, Nike were heavily pushing hybrid models – constructing 2 silhouettes into one. Nike’s GS sizing were hybrids at a time where Air Max 95’s would come with an Air Max 93 midsole, so these releases weren’t anything new. With the Skepta collaboration, Nike took the Air Max BW and the Air Max 97 to create a Paris inspired project. From the contrasting Swooshes taken from the French Flag to the mesh material, the AM97/BW paid homage to the love Paris and Skepta have for each other.
Nike Air Max 97 Gold (See Below)
If silver does not take your fancy, don’t worry Nike has you covered with a gold version of the Air Max 97 Silver Bullet. The metallic hints make this shoe very noticeable on the streets. The dark red swoosh Nike branding reinforces the style’s strong status. The shoe also comes in a strong patterned Italian version.
Nike Air Max 97 Baroque Brown
A stand out colourway pasted in earthy tones with a speckled midsole, contrasted with the full length Air Max bubble, the Baroque Brown 97’s are a must-have pair. From the bottom of the outsole to the top of the upper, the waves fade lighter in tone giving a stand-out finish. Once more, a premium suede has been used rather than the favoured metallic prowess recognised to many AM 97 fanatics.
Nike Air Max 97 Puerto Rico – 2021
In more recent times we have seen the Air Max 97 Puerto Rico hit the shelves. Similar to the Italian version, the design features Puerto Rican flags as well as a subtle change in the swoosh embroidery.
Nike Air Max 97 Rio Jacquard Brazil – 2016
A wild pair but one which will now set you back a fair few pennies since its release in 2016. Carnival vibes throughout are just what Brazilian people are known for – this shoe is meant to be worn on the streets, joined by good people, music and dance. The digital speckle highlights this shoe, uplifting its presence whilst the pine green reminds you of its South American heritage.
Nike Air Max 97 Hyperfuse Hasta – 2012 (See Below)
In 2010, Nike introduced its latest innovation of Hyperfuse technology used in its footwear.
Eliminating its traditional cut-and-sew method, three layered composite and durable materials are fused together using heat and pressure to give off a lightweight and breathable feel. In 2012, Nike relied heavily on Hyperfuse and applied it on their classic models with the Air Max 97 being one of them. The hyperfuse material is used all over the upper with a combination of open mesh for maximum breathability.
Nike Air Max 97 Kashima Antler – 2006 (See Below)
In 2006, Nike released the ‘Kashima Antler’s Pack’ which was an ode to Japan’s most successful professional football team, the Kashima Antlers. Nike applied the inspiration on 3 icons, the AM95, AM97 as well as (at the time) newly innovated Air Max 360. The Air Max 97 combines subtle tones of black and grey. It also boasted the much-beloved elephant print on the upper with a teal-colored Max Air unit and Kashima Antler branding on the tongue and heel tab.
Download our Footpatrol launches app here for all the latest news and releases.
Shop the latest Air Max styles here.
The last couple of years has seen the Nike Dunk rule supreme. Taking not only the sneaker world by storm once again, it’s also opened up the world of sneakers to a whole new audience. Thanks to its clean aesthetic and easy use of colour blocking, its simplicity is welcoming. First launched back in ’85, the Dunk was an on court success and quickly became a street icon as well.
For the second time, Nike take us on a trip back to the 80’s to where it all began for another revisit of their 1985 Nike Dunk High. Paying homage to that original shape, Nike first set about its return with frequent collaborator UNDERCOVER and their UBA collection. Not too long after, Nike followed up this return with a duo of colour ways in a rather distinct, vintage acid wash disguise. It’s here that we land once again with another pairing of distressed inspired colour ways.
Focussing on some distinct colours within the palette, on offer you’ll notice a bright vibrant mix including a fan favourite ‘University Blue’ and ‘Collegiate Orange’ which is greeted with a vintage inspired yellow outsole. This aged feel carries on into the second pair with a more subdued black and yellow mix thats reminiscent of the ‘Varsity Maize’ colour blocking.
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The ONLINE draw is live over on the Footpatrol Launches App, CLICK HERE to download!
To enter, you’re required to sign up via the above forms, these WON’T be available in-store to sign up on.
To sign up to the Online draw, you will need to download the Footpatrol Launches app and complete a pre-authorisation payment of the retail price of the product plus shipping costs. This will be held until completion of the draw. Those successful will have their win posted out to the address entered during sign up. Those unsuccessful will see a return of their funds, this can take up to 5 working days from when the winners have been drawn.
Everything we’ve come to know and love, all wrapped up in a new, unique package… thats what the Air Jordan 1 LV8D brings to the table and we’re liking it! Not forgetting where the Air Jordan 1 came from, this latest take perfectly represents its OG heritage. With an upper thats been carefully crafted with a soft leather, the colour way is a traditional use of red and black that everyone knows as the ‘Bred’ colour way.
Keeping those recognisable touches in place with the additional, over exaggerated midsole creates a much welcome juxtaposition for the eyes. Something that looks like its straight out of the 80’s with its platform midsole fits perfectly into the modern fashion trends of today.
The WMNS Air Jordan 1 LV8D ‘Bred’ is now available in-store and online, priced at £125. Make sure to take a closer look at this latest model from the Jordan Brand below and all we have left to ask is, how would you style the AJ1 LV8D?
Everyone will remember the fan fare that came with the launch of the original adidas NMD R1 back in late 2015. What was a limited release, the NMD R1 continued on with the craze and the need for a lifestyle sneaker that offer a super lightweight, comfortable sock like look and feel. The NMD R1 was all those things wrapped up in one simplistic package.
Listening to the demand, adidas set about continuing to tell the NMD story with the introduction of the NMD Chukka, the NMD City Sock and even letting frequent collaborators like Pharrell Williams loose on the sneaker which in turn, brought another round of hype towards the silhouette.
Now into 2022 and adidas see this as the perfect time to reimagine the NMD and how the NMD should look and feel in the modern day. So with that, we introduce you to the NMD S1.
You can clearly see a new approach has been taken however, there is a clear DNA in place with its lightweight upper and contrasting, chunkier midsole that speaks true to that original NMD R1. Bringing the NMD into the modern day, the visible BOOST has now become encaged within a sleek, aerodynamic midsole with semi transparent properties that follows through into the Three Stripes on within the Primeknit upper.
Take a closer look at the adidas NMD S1 below and stay tuned for further launch information coming soon!
For some people, the Air Jordan 1 is the ultimate grail, the must have on foot and a colour way that always catches peoples attention is a ‘Mocha’. After Travis Scotts take back in 2019 and the follow up from the Jordan Brand in 2020 with the ‘Dark Mocha’, anything with this combination of white and chocolate browns is a winning formula.
For their latest take however, Jordan Brand pull out the Air Jordan 1 Low. An ever growing silhouette along with the Mid variation, the Low is the latest to receive this colour blocking.
With the recognisable brown and white colour blocking in a mixture of suede and leather make up, a quilted pink liner adds a much welcome pop alongside the shimmering silver wings logo on the heel bringing a fresh approach.
PLEASE TAKE TIME TO READ THE BELOW!
The London in-store draw is now closed!
To enter, you’re required to sign up via the above forms, these WON’T be available in-store to sign up on.
In-store winners will be contacted via email informing them of their win. Within this email, winners will be given a set of dates in which they must collect their win from our London store. To collect, you will need to provide the winning email and a valid photographic government ID matching the winners name. NO ONE can collect on the winners behalf. Failure to provide this, or failure to collect within the given dates will mean failure to purchase your win.
We love it when a new brand is added to the Footpatrol brand list and for 2022, we welcome Hoka to our offering. A relatively new brand to the running scene having been founded in 2009, it hasn’t taken long for Hoka to burst on to the scene with a range that spans across running and lifestyle. Their aim? To go faster… How can they go faster whilst improving how a runner performs.
With this overriding goal in mind, Hoka have also found themselves burst on to the lifestyle scene thanks to their extreme comfort levels but also, the aesthetic. With fashion weeks becoming more and more filled with trail sneakers and a more utilitarian approach to design, Hoka along with the likes of Salomon have found themselves a regular feature.
To introduce the brand to Footpatrol, some of the team took the Hoka Clifton 8 on to the streets of London to check out their durability, running abilities and overall comfort to see what all the fuss is about!
Ultra lightweight and with supreme levels of cushioning, the Clifton 8 manages to deliver a more responsive feel with the same characteristics as previous models. With it’s new midsole compound in place, it not only provides that energy needed but also firm enough to feel secure.
Take a closer look below and make sure to check out HOKA online at Footpatrol!
This year marks our 20th anniversary of our innovative sneaker fraternity here at Footpatrol! With an exciting year approaching us, we thought we would give back to our amazing community that has shown uttermost devotion to us over the years. On that note, we take a look at the undeniable history behind our iconic brand. From our humble beginnings in St.Annes Court to the opening of our first European store in Paris. As a special thanks-we are also giving you an exclusive follow up of our celebratory year ahead. We look to do more than just showcase and talk about footwear, we aim to use this anniversary to reconnect with our community and give back in more ways than just through footwear.
Our authentic sneaker journey started in our original flagship store in St Annes Court, located in Soho. Founded by streetwear pioneers Michael Kopelman, Simon Porter and Fraser Cooke in 2002, who envisioned an independent sneaker store with a realm of exclusive possibilities. Feeding into a consortium programme that was top-level and niche, distributing the most exclusive trainers on the market from a limited handful of brands.
Unlike the present day, the sneaker scene in 2002 was a much more closed off subculture that wasn’t fully understood by the masses. With minimal resources to find rare pairs, JP exclusives and other oddities, this left collectors down to their own demise. With access being so slim, this allowed Footpatrol to open their doors to capitalise on the market and help fuel the fire that has become present day.
Taking an inaugural spot as store manager was Wes Tyerman at the time, who became an integral part of our brand’s authentic charm. Sharpening his creative fruition and contributing to some of the most innovative collabs, Wes kept things fresh and inventive, paving the way for eccentric sneaker innovation. Footpatrol became known for specialising in unique drops, top releases and the occasional deadstock pieces – similar to as we know it today!
Boasting a mesh wire cage aesthetic embossed new meanings of a streetwear sneaker space; it was lauded for its remarkable construction that became a well-known trademark across the world. Authentic, unique and simply fluent utilitarian language, Footpatrol was one-of-a-kind; becoming a mecca for sneakerheads not only for London’s growing subcultural sneaker hub, but for those internationally that were deeply ingrained into our community.
After 6 reigning years at St Annes Court, Footpatrol resided into a short departure from the sneaker world. After a 2 year closure, we re-opened our doors in 2010, in the heart of Soho in Berwick street, becoming a standalone member of the JD Group. Signifying new admirable beginnings but also keeping things authentic; we opted for an innovative store change. Swapping our mesh cage aesthetic for a wooden cabin structure that became an iconic translation of our ‘space within a space’ ethos. With our new store fit pushing architectural boundaries, it became a well-renowned space for sneaker enthusiasts across the world.
Berwick street has become the most coveted home for our flagship store, cherishing the unique and outgoing social hub around it. Inundated with record stores, lively bars and clothiers fuelling the niche and hip market that spends a lot of their disposable income in the area- Soho is notoriously a melting pot for culture. With our original St.Annes residency within walking distance, we believed that Soho would be the best focal point for our store, retaining the same unwilted sneaker identity that is authentic – a true resemblance of our community.
2018 signified momentous change; with the decision to expand our brand globally, opening our first European store located in the Le Marais district in Paris. The Le Marais District is synonymously known as the fashionable district in Paris boasting an array of bars, boutiques and galleries. Reflecting a unique, culturally diverse community, reflecting the authentic audience we possess in London.
Mirroring the Paris store aesthetic, our London flagship store was undertaking an immense overhaul, replacing the wood hut exterior into a polished futuristic metal and stone finish that provided an inviting open space fit. The refit was designed by London based architectural design studio, Counterfeit Studio who remains faithful to the same utilitarian charm that underpinned previous store iterations. Oversized benches have replaced the fibreglass sections, with display shelvings and cladding embossed throughout the store, creating a tangible space for both our staff and consumers.
Taking cues from our Paris store, we also opted for a trademark logo change, with the London store also featuring an infinity gas mask neon, with a white refined colour rendition-designed by artist Marcus Bracey and his team – that compliments the new ingrained change for the new Footpatrol London store. As well as being an integral focal point for us.
20 years is a long time and within those 20 years Footpatrol has been able to bring a whole host of releases, collaborations, events and much more. In the early days of Footpatrol this was showcased through introductions to artists such as KAWS, co-hosted with Gimmie 5 having him produce a limited run of pieces including a Footpatrol x Kaws Gasmask logo (to this day is used as the @Footpatrol_Ldn profile picture). It didn’t stop their though, collaborations and special SMUs also passed through St.Annes Court with the likes of the Unkle x Nike ‘Dunkle’, Nike ‘London’ Dunk, Footpatrol Air Stab, Footpatrol Air Epic, adidas Campus and one that we feel is sometimes forgotten, the Footpatrol x adidas ZX800 part of the original A-ZX pack.
Moving forward to our Berwick Street reign we have been able to maintain that momentum initially kick started by Michael Koppleman and Fraser Cooke. Footpatrol have continued to be at the forefront of the London sneaker scene, being a part of projects such as the Consortium 4D Futurecraft, ASICS Gel Lyte III 25th Anniversary with the launch of the ‘Squads’ and even highly limited SMUs with Le Coq Sportif. When you think of footwear and London it’s hard not to think of Footpatrol and some of its memorable events and installations. Things such as Action Bronson’s ‘F*ck Thats Delicious’ book launch, the annually released All Gone book series with Michael Dupouy, Nikes ‘Vote Forward’ campaign where Footpatrol’s very own Alex Hackett showcased her own Airmax iteration and one of our personal favourite moments, the week long Off White x Nike ‘The Ten’ in-store take over! Footpatrol is more than just shoes, it’s a cultural hub based in Soho that has always been there to showcase something new, someone new or offering a platform for you to share your stories and support our community in more ways than one.
Our platform has been used to help supply access to our community to some of the highest heat releases to drop over the last 20 years. Going forward to aim to continue that, you aim to grow and we aim to offer more support than ever before. Make sure you also have the Footpatrol launches app downloaded to keep up to date with any exclusive draws, releases and content.
With the platform we have, the community we have created and the loyal enthusiasts that have supported us since day one. We aim to continue our work and help give our community a safe, inclusive and supporting space that makes all feel welcome the moment they step through our doors. There are more ways retailers can help their communities than just giving access to shoes, there are opportunities for us to teach, uplift those who want to work within the industry and haven’t found their way in and learn more as they find their first few pairs to their collections. Most importantly use our platform to raise awareness on topics we feel need focusing on, our community is more than just a customer. It is our foundation that keeps Footpatrol afloat.
So keep your eyes peeled, we got a year packed up with events, talks, collabs and much more!
Rimo is a Tokyo born designer, illustrator and art director that started his solo career as an artist that had decided to expand in other creative avenues of fashion, advertising, movies, magazines and architecture. Starting his creative journey as one part of the graphic duo “mocrock” has kicked off Rimo’s passion for art illustration. His contemporary illustrative style showcases a cultural narrative and his own idiosyncratic spin on the value of the community within sneaker politics. Using elaborate graphics, retro-style imagery and hues to provide authentic animated artwork.
Rimo has worked on countless collaborations with iconic trainer brand Reebok, with one of their most prevalent projects being the animative ‘Reebok Certified Network Vol.7 “Kasina in Korea” being the first ample introductions we had with Rimo.This has not been the first time that he has worked with Footpatrol too, boasting a previous collaboration with Footpatrol on a Reebok Workout collection that showcased our Team FP in creative animation concept that focuses on an in-depth insight into our business and the work we do behind the scenes- as an integral focal point of our brand. Rimo has also worked on society-based initiative campaigns, namely the ‘Back to School’ collaboration with North Face.
To commemorate 20 years of Footpatrol we have teamed up with Tokyo born graphic designer/illustrator Rimo on an anniversary- inspired capsule collection. Diversifying our range of streetwear apparel for an exclusive and cultural offering this year. A little give back and admiration to our niche sneaker community. It will be the first collection launching this year that highlights this important landmark.
The elaborate capsule range of apparel will include a 20-year Gas Mask hood and tee that utilises our distinctive Gas Mask logo as part of the numbered design. Featuring the hoodie in a black upper hue with red printed ‘20’ Gas Mask inspired graphic in the centre of the chest. The T-shirt will indulge in the same Gas Mask design but will also come in White. Our bespoke apparel collection will also feature a 20th Anniversary white Tee with bold graphics in pops of blue and red and a dual selection of PRS Store front tees that emulate the outside imagery and identity of both of our London and Paris stores.
What’s more, to celebrate our close ties with the Paris store, we will be introducing a ‘Unity’ black tee that emulates our bond using trademark UK and Paris flag representation in iconic colour hues of red, white and blue. Showcased within a pictorial graphic formed of two gas masked silhouettes holding hands to celebrate the authentic partnership.
The remaining sizes of the Footpatrol x Rimo 20th Anniversary Collection is now available to shop in-store and online here!
Footpatrol: We have had the pleasure of working with you before in a previous collaboration, but for the people who don’t know who you are or are unfamiliar with your work, could you tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do?
Rimo: Hi, my name is Rimo. I am a graphic designer and illustrator based in Tokyo. I also host gallery exhibitions of my own work on an irregular basis. I’ve been involved in sneaker projects for the last few years. I have created the main visuals for sneaker advertisements that have expanded globally, and have been actively producing illustrations, designs, and directions for videos using animation. Occasionally, I focused on the behind-the-scenes work of collaborations between sneaker companies and sneaker shops around the world, using animation.
FP: At what age did you realise that you had a passion for art and illustration?
Rimo: The first thing I was interested in was illustration. My moms’ hobby was making clothes with DIY, and I had a lot of books about sewing at home. Fashion books at the time used a lot of “fashion illustrations” in which model figures were posed and expressed in bold and fine lines, and I was very much influenced by those illustrations. I was first interested in art when I was 14 years old and was influenced by the graffiti art pieces I saw in magazines. At the same time, the relationship between graffiti and music (HIP-HOP) was connected, I was gradually fascinated by various subcultures. I also bought the Fujiwara Hiroshi “Natural Born Dub” EP at a record shop in Harajuku then. The cover of the jacket features a picture of Jean-Michel Basquiat, and the music video uses Mark Gonzalez’s skating scene. Since then, I’ve been very absorbed in music. I often went to “Rough Trade Records” in Harajuku, Tokyo. I was exposed to the affinity between music jackets and art and design, and I became more and more fond of art and design.
FP: Tell me a little bit about your previous graphic duo ‘moncrock’, how did that come about?
Rimo: When I was about 20 years old, I met Yohey Omori through a friend. He drew illustrations and paintings and we hit it off straight away. When I went to his house, he had music, manga, movies, videos and books that I didn’t know, and I was always inspired by him. We hung out every day and often went to club events. At the club, we met a lot of people, dropped by a lot of events and we even ended up making fliers for events. Gradually, various people started to ask us to design stuff. At that time, our friends had signed a contract to release their music from a major record company. Two of us decided to design for them, and the design duo “mocrock” was born. Meeting him in my career was a big turning point.
FP: If there is any, what artist/illustrators or graphic designers are you influenced by and how has it inspired your own art form?
Rimo: I have a lot of favorite artists, illustrators and designers. It’s such a large list that I can’t introduce everything. lol. Recently, GEOFF MCFETRIDGE, Bráulio Amado have been my favorite artists.
Personally, I’m very influenced by people who are not limited to one title and are doing a wide range of creative things regardless of their field. For example, like movie director Mike Mills, he has done jacket designs, graphic designs for posters, magazines, books and even video. I also want to work in a creative direction regardless of the field while developing my own skills such as illustration and design.
FP: How would you describe your design or creative process as a brand/ individual?
Rimo: My main job is client work and commercial work. I listen to the request of the client and work “to know”. I get various hints and build an image within me. I think it is important not to swallow all the client’s requests, but to leave a “margin” that I misunderstand, in a good way. After that, while sketching, I embody my image.
When the client gives an OK, I continue to make trial and error until I am satisfied.
Personally, I‘m doing a creative label called ‘Millnote Books‘. I publish the artwork that I have accumulated every day as zine, and produce t-shirts, cassette tapes or other products. This label is purely pursuing how to create my own artwork, and I enjoy running it. I haven’t made many works recently, but I would like to make various works in 2022.
FP: As you know it is our 20th anniversary here at Footpatrol, could you tell us a little bit about the vision you had for our opening anniversary range?
Rimo: For Footpatrol’s 20th Anniversary, I wanted to make a better product. As a design source, number 20, shops in London and Paris, and the family and community of Footpatrol. Personally, I think for this 20th anniversary by creating products like this it allows us to shake hands with our community and make that connection stronger than before.
FP: To finish off we would like to thank you so much for the interview… What advice would you give to our viewers that wanted to start out in illustration and build their own creative brand? Is there anything you would like to share with the Footpatrol friends and family?
Rimo: I don’t know if I’m in a position to give my advice to others. .. .. but remember your passion and gratitude to others, and always create with love. If you continue, you will surely be connected by the dots. Look at me. I live far away in Tokyo, have the opportunity to connect with Footpatrol based in London and Paris and get to work together on projects. Anything is possible.
Congratulations to Footpatrol on your 20th anniversary. Thank you for appointing me at such an important milestone. I was really happy when you first contacted me. It was a great honor for me to remember that I worked with you before. I am happy to be able to participate in this project with the Footpatrol team while the world is still in this pandemic.
Quick shout out – Thanks to my friend Naoki for connecting us for the first collaboration between us, and creative director Asheeba for the call this time, and everyone on the Footpatrol team. If we have another chance, let’s make something together Someday again.
