Tag: 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.
When we met Dean it was impossible not to be taken by his positive energy and excitement behind what he does. Being the Founder of magazine Gauchoworld – a years young publication that covers stories and topics for like minded individuals, – has not only created a facet of which covers topics not necessarily spoken about within certain industries. But it allows creatives, artists and athletes to talk about topics of interest outside of what they are ‘supposed’ to like.
Taking a trip over to the Gauchoworld HQ we wanted to find out the story behind this piece of well structured print and the man that makes it all happen. After we finished this interview it was safe to say that Dean sees the world through his lens and isnt letting anything change that, if anything, it’s made him prouder to be who he is.
Have a peep at the feature below and find out more about our encounter with Dean George.
Footpatrol: Dean I like to kick off every interview with a simple, how are you?
Dean George: I am well, I am very well. I am tired, but I am well!
FP: For the people who haven’t had the pleasure of meeting you as of yet, could you give us a breakdown of who you are and what you do?
DG: I’m Dean George, Creative Director (CD) and Film Director. I am also the founder, CD and Editor-In-Chief of Gauchoworld magazine.
FP: Let’s talk a bit more about Gauchoworld. How did it all begin?
DG: The idea just used to sit in the notes of my phone as ‘Gauchoworld’, it stayed there for ages because I was so scared to let anyone into my thoughts. I remember one day I spoke to Matt Dent from The Soho Warriors about the ideas and he told me just go for it. One thing I’ve learned is to not be afraid to make mistakes. Mess up and it will only make you better at what you do. Bit by bit, step by step things will start to make sense!
FP: What about the name itself, where did the idea come from?
DG: The name Gauchoworld is a 2 part stem. The word Gaucho comes from the name of my favourite footballer, Ronaldinho. He represented creative freedom, expression and just playing the game he loves exactly how he wants to play it. He played from the heart. By having Gaucho and World together it represents the same ethos that Ronaldinho had in terms of being creatively free and doing what you want to do. I hate it when people do Gaucho (space) World, it’s meant to be together, it’s like that for a reason. No matter who you are and what you do, you can do it as freely as you want with no constraints or limitations, this is your world.
A perfect example is the Dominic Calvert-Lewin cover we did for Issue 1. This is a Premier League footballer, topless, in a 2 piece suit, on the cover of a magazine. He has other interests other than football, at the end of the day he is a human being he can do what he wants and that is what Gauchoworld is.
FP: By the sounds of things you are creating a platform to not only showcase these topics in a different light, but you are also allowing artists and athletes to showcase interests that to the outside world are getting knocked for. Allowing them to be more free through self expression.
DG: With us, we care about the person first and foremost. In 2 issues we have had 19 features, to this day not a week goes by where we don’t have at least 1 interaction a week with those that have been featured. And that’s down to the relationships that we have built organically. When we worked with DCL we didn’t think about it being the year of the Euros, or if he makes a big move to another club. We thought about nothing, the only reason we did it is because we love him and everything he stands for.
FP: I don’t want to ask what your end game is with the magazine as I feel it’s one of those things that is going to stand the test of time. So to better put it, what would you say is the brand’s ethos at Gauchoworld?
DG: I think the main thing for Gauchoworld is to make sure we have generational impact.
In the next 4 years we will be on our 10th issue. I want to get to that issue and line up everything from issue 1 to 10 and feel that we have stayed true to our beliefs and solidified our narrative.
I want my kids to be involved in this one day, be able to look at this body of work and say we understand what needs to be done. I don’t want or care about short term accolades.
Being a black owned business I feel as though it’s so important that we allow people within our black communities to understand that you can genuinely achieve anything you want.
FP: It’s really nice to hear that feel good element behind what you do. What about your following then, did you see it have such a big following so quickly or has it all come to you as a surprise?
DG: One thing I never look at is our following, I look at where the magazine is going. We have a map and everytime the magazine goes somewhere new in the world, we colour it in.
Taking over the world, bit by bit, brick by brick. I’m not concerned about how many people follow us, I am more concerned about how we’re gonna get someone in Turkmenistan to know about Gauchoworld. That means more to me than the follower count.
FP: So you have done between online and print over 150+ articles now. Would you say you have a top 3 Favorite projects?
DG: That’s a good question.
My favourite article of all time from Gauchoworld, is a piece on a young model called Abolaji Oshun. The article is a first person piece on his experience of walking for Balenciaga in Paris. You really need to read the article, it is sooo good!
Second is Nia Archives. She is lit! Being able to put her in her first ever print was mad. A lot of people we work with are doing this for the first time, and end up going on to do other things after. It is always nice to see some of the people we feature progress and always good to touch in with them to see how they are getting on. There was a moment after the feature, at a party where Nia was DJing, that we were all standing there thinking like wow our feature is headlining, doing their thing!
My third would be the DCL cover. I don’t normally rave about projects that I am heavily involved in but I got to tell you the story. People tell me it’s their favourite cover we did, I can’t stand looking at it though because I shot it haha and to this day I have people asking if we have any more copies of it!
So I was at Dom’s house, and he showed me this suit. My thoughts were ‘oo damn, this is a sick suit’, the quality was amazing, super weighty, it just banged! He went to put it on with a shirt, which looked okay, but I told him to lose the shirt. If you didn’t already know this, Dom is wham! The outfit looked serious. We went to walk downstairs and I just got this idea and told Dom to lay down on the carpet. He was just so chill about it. I needed to get some height for the shot I wanted, there was no ladder in sight haha so I decided the best thing to do was to stand on his banister on the stairs. So here I am balancing on this banister, trying to take this shot with Dom laying on the floor, a £2k camera that I’ve loaned from Fatllama attached to me by a tiny wrist strap and my head squashed up against the ceiling! I managed to get the shot but thought it was gonna be dark so I had to jump down, run downstairs to grab a couple lights and do the whole thing again, all whilst Dom just layed there! I sprinted back upstairs and retook the image. The moment I took the shot I knew we had the cover. The interview as well was sick, he said this really good anecdote during it – He is who he is, he has interests elsewhere and doesn’t care what anyone else thinks. The instagram comments don’t get to him, people’s opinions don’t matter to him.
This shoot would not have been possible without the trust Ten Toes placed in me to work with DCL, one of their clients. As a result of this shoot and other independent projects, months later I was offered a role at the agency as their Creative Director. It just goes to show, when you do the work, the barriers to entry can easily vanish, this is my first full-time role, and to be in such a senior position speaks to the late nights I put in as an inquisitive 18-year-old. I am beyond proud of the opportunities that this journey has provided me with and it feels truly special to be a part of the Ten Toes family. Large up Adam Parker for that instagram dm (he knows which one) and Ben Weisfeld for having faith in my abilities.
FP: Dean, I have thoroughly enjoyed hearing some of the behind the scene stories of Gauchoworld. Before we let you go we wanna use this opportunity to give a chance to sign everything off?
DG: I say the same thing all the time but I mean it. Just be ignorant man, do what you want. Who can tell YOU what to do, absolutely nobody. Make the mistakes, embrace them, use them as lessons. There is no better university than the university of life. Take everything day by day, step by step – everything happens for a reason. There are so many things that have happened to me where it’s been tough, but I look at the next day, month, year and do I remember any of those things anymore, no. It’s only helped to build character. Everyone’s journey is unique, never look at anyone and think that you want to be them. No one is telling you not to be inspired but champion your own greatness first, be your number 1 fan.
The shoe that started it all. Honouring over three decades of revolutionary design and court history, The Air Jordan 1 has achieved grail-like status by sneakerheads over the years. Originally designed by Peter Moore in 1985-back in all its glory- the fit has been lauded for its signature sidewall Swooshes, perforated shoe boxes and a collared wing emblem. Not to mention one of its most coveted colourways of all time – the Chicago-inspired colourway. The celebratory colour up of red, black and white is a true accolade to the iconic b-ball franchise, the Chicago Bulls.
Over the years the Air Jordan 1 lineage has also boasted a catalogue of collaborations with brands like namely Off-White, A Ma Maniere and Comme Des Garçons being an audacious handful of favourites. In addition, the AJ1 is a canvas for community collectives and creatives such as the Fearless project. The ‘Patent Bred’ rendition remasters the intrinsic ‘OG’ design that has changed the basketball and trainer game throughout the years.
Glossy black patent leather replaces the traditional tumbled leather design, while hints of ‘Varsity Red’ coat the toe cap, medial quarter and the sidewall Swooshes. What’s more, the legendary design features the Wing emblem on the collar, a perforated shoe box and labelling on the tongue and insoles, maintaining the OG aesthetic. Underfoot, the full-length Air midsole provides unrivalled comfort and undeniable sporting performance, delivering on-court functionality like no other.
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.
The Air Jordan 1 is one of those shoes that whether you’ve been into sneakers since day one or just coming into the world of sneakers, you’ll know what the AJ1 is all about. With three decades of revolutionary design and history both on and off the court, the Air Jordan 1 has become a grail for many. Throughout those three decades, the Air Jordan 1 has also been a body for many in-line and collaborative efforts from some of the biggest names in fashion and has even found its way to becoming a canvas for community projects like the well known ‘Fearless’ project.
For its latest women’s exclusive, the upper is Inspired by light pink hues resembling bubble gum on a mixture of matte nubuck and patent leather. Adding a playful nature of this iteration and playfully teasing sneaker heads with the nightmare of standing on bubblegum, a printed detail sits on the outsole that resembles just that, a bubble gum splat.
Take a closer look at this latest Air Jordan 1 below and make sure to get your entries in via the links below!
PLEASE TAKE TIME TO READ THE BELOW!
The 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.
Celebrating 4 decades of innovative technology, the New Balance 990 is one of the best running shoes to ever exist in the sneaker market. First introduced in 1982, the 990 silhouette was lauded for its practicality, comfort and unique craftsmanship-withstanding core values of the brand that continues to solidify its’ legendary status. Even Though, the fit was billed with a hefty price tag, becoming some of the most expensive running shoes at the time, their commitment to quality was simply unrivalled- selling over 10 times more pairs than the 5,000 expected in the shoe’s debut year.
After many years of innovation, it was 2016 that marked the release of the 4th generation of the 990’s- introducing the 990v4- as it is most commonly known as today. Idiosyncratic in its seams, the 990v4 model swapped its three part EVA midsole, leather upper and urethane collar for a newly updated ENCAP Midsole, a breathathable upper and a foam collar. This year’s highly anticipated refresh of the 990v4 ‘Grey’ model opts for Jim Davis’ iconic intrinsic design, following a ‘OG’ greyscale colour up.
The fit arrives in a nostalgic fashion, sailing hues of grey suede on the upper, while airy mesh underlays keeps things breathable. Iconic ‘N’ branding coats the medial side walls in true New Balance fashion with tagged branding indulging the tongue and counter heel. The iconic fit further features crisp white laces for a snug fit that matches the cushioning ENCAP midsole. A foam urethane collar adds comfortability, while the underfoot sits on a black outsole with combined ABZORB cushioning providing grippy traction to every step.
Following the release of the newest rendition of the New Balance 990v4 range, we continue our narrative with the House of St. Barnabas. The fourth silhouette of the infamous 990 range showcases practicality, ability and groundbreaking technology. The same integrity and skill that can also be found at House of St. Barnabas. Offering some of the most innovative vocational courses, House of St. Barnabas has played an instrumental part in shaping the future careers of many.
Enrolling in their first baristerie course, was stay at home mum Jane, we follow her cordial journey into her new found passion for baristerie.
Footpatrol: Morning Jane, lovely to see you today thanks for having us here today, I just wanted to start off the interview by saying, how are you?
Jane: I am good, very good.
FP: Could you tell us a little about your role within the House of St Barnabas?
Jane: I came here to study baristerie, so it was more to do with making coffee and cocktails as well.
FP: Amazing, so how did your journey begin?
Jane: I have been a stay at home mum for like 5 years and I met a group called Paddington Trust and they introduced me to House of St Barnabas for training and that’s how my journey started.
FP: How have you found it so far?
Jane: It has been amazing! I mean everybody here has been lovely especially with my fellow colleagues and participants, we were more an less like a family here, we had each other’s back. From the first day we met, we clicked instantly so it’s been amazing.
FP: What was it like being part of the course? And could you give us a little walkthrough of how it’s done.
Jane: Since being a stay at home mum, coming here gave me the motivation to get back to work and I didn’t know anything about baristerie but since I started it is something that I loved and that I really wanted to learn more about. So from now on, that is what I am going to do after we have graduated, that is more and less what I want to do.
FP: How do you feel now having completed the course?
Jane: It has been sad because it came round so quickly but it has been amazing, I mean I am leaving here with lots of things we can do, they gave us the starting point for us to look for work. When talking with all my fellow participants, everybody is going around looking for jobs, so yeah it has been amazing.
FP: So glad to hear, it is such a good opportunity for people.
Jane: Yes!
FP: If there is one thing you would like to say to people that will further encourage their support, what would it be?
Jane: I keep saying, if there were more places like House of St Barnabas, I don’t think people would stay at home because the warmth they give you when you come here is like if you have doubt in your mind, you feel like you can do it. There are some places where you go somewhere that you feel like you instantly fit in or you don’t, here’s one place where every penny counts. If there were more St Barnabas’ around in London, I think people would go far.
FP: Thank you so much, just a last question, what advice would you give to people that would start the course?
Jane: That they should just be themselves and enjoy, I mean it is a lovely ride, people here are friendly, just be yourself and open with everybody and you’ll fit right in.
Launching in-store and online on Friday 14th January (Available online from 08:00AM GMT), priced at £230.
A well-renowned loud and proud silhouette of the Air Jordan lineage, the Jordan 4 iteration is certainly one of the most iconic standalone favourites. Admired for its elaborate aesthetic and staple mesh detailing that has attained grail-like status from many Jordan connoisseurs over the years. The Jordan 4 is noted for its first ample on-court appearance, when Michael Jordan wore the 4’s during the Bulls first victory of making it to their first Eastern Conference finals. This victory season was one of MJ’s personal bests too – attaining a statistical average of 32.5 points, 8 rebounds 8 assists. Tinker Hatfield’s embossed ‘Air Flight’ design was also- single handedly- the first Jordan model to be released to the global market.
Over the years, the Air Jordan 4 has also arrived in an audacious handful of colourways too, with concords of grey, black , red and ‘Military’ blues being the most popular colourway iterations. Not to mention the lengthy catalogue of collaborations from its archival partners namely KAWS, Travis Scott’s Cactus Jack collection alongside LA Union becoming sought-after favourites. The newest rendition to the Air Jordan roster- the Jordan 4 Retro ‘Crimson’ is the hyped silhouette of the season, sporting an ‘OG’ bred celebratory colour up.
Taking neighbouring influences from the iconic Air Jordan 4 ‘Thunder’ ensemble, the fit arrives in a smooth two-toned black and red leather upper with airy mesh overlays indulging the medial side walls and forefoot. Signature Jumpman ‘Flight’ branding coats the tongue and heel tab, while a vibrant red cushioned Air midsole adds comfort to the retro style. The legendary fit is rounded off with a front lace system for a snug fit, while underfoot, the durable outsole tread keeps things sturdy and court ready.
PLEASE TAKE TIME TO READ THE BELOW!
The London in-store draw is now closed!
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.
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 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.
New year, new you…?
Maybe that new you is to hit the streets racking up the miles, we’re talking about running by the way! At Footpatrol, we pride ourselves on delivering the latest footwear in any category and we love to see the latest and greatest in running technology come to light.
With the boundaries of what’s possible in running being pushed each year it seems, we take a look at the latest colour ways on offer from Nike’s Running department. For their latest offering of the Air Zoom Alphafly & Tempo NEXT%, each is coated in an eye-catching ‘Barely Volt’ that brings a vintage runner feel to these futuristic looking silhouettes.
When you think of the Alphafly NEXT%, you can almost think of it as the brother to the already well known Vaporfly NEXT%. Both being Nikes premium racers, the Alphafly took things up another gear with the addition of two Zoom Air pods sitting underneath the forefoot whilst still incorporating the Carbon plate. It was also a prototype edition of the Alphafly NEXT% that helped Eliud Kipchoge beat the 2 hour time barrier for a marathon…
Whereas you can save the above two for race day, the Tempo NEXT% on the other hand is the perfect training shoe. Built for those who want to experience a faster shoe and build up to a race, the Tempo NEXT% is a great shoe to grab for your daily runs. To cause less stress on the legs, both of the fits utilise a Carbon Plate and two Zoom Air Pods however the Tempo NEXT% opts for a less rigid plate allowing for the foot to build strength whilst training. If this combination of propulsion wasn’t enough though, both are packed with ZoomX foam for ultimate cushioning.
Both styles are now available to shop online at Footpatrol here!
Renowned for its motion styled design that inspires cushioning and innovative performance, the New Balance 1700 has been lauded for its intrinsic design that boasts a versatile track to street fit. First launched in 1999, the 1700’s had taken many affirmations from the infamous 1300 model that inspired its OG greyscale colour up. Billed the “very best running shoes ever made”, the model also had burgeoning influence on the 1700’s catalogue of innovative features namely, the EVA foam core, the polyurethane core, ABZORB and ENCAP technologies for performance that is uncompromised.
Achieving cult status in Japan , the model has also been acclaimed for its cross-cultural appreciation of American street style, with Japan’s appreciation of fine American craftsmanship and marketing. Thus, creating a community that celebrates hybrid track design. Japan had also released its own iteration the ‘1700 Made in Japan’ rocking a staple ‘Steel Blue’ colour up. After 20 years of international influence, the boston-based design returns with a newly revised spin on the ‘OG’ bred colourway.
The newest iteration of the New Balance 1700 ‘Made in the USA’ arrives in a nubuck leather and suede upper in grey hue, while mesh overlays indulge the toe cap and counter heel. Iconic ‘N’ branding coats the medial side walls with ‘1700’ and ‘New Balance’ embroidered detailing on the quarterback and the tongue. What’s more, a front lace system provides a snug fit and a comfy ENCAP insole unit for advanced support. The retro-inspired fit is rounded off with a rubber outsole infused AZORB technology for durability and high energy return.
Shop the New Balance 1700 here!
With the 40th Anniversary of the Nike Air Force 1 just around the corner, we wanted to take you back to where it all started.
Culturally accepted worldwide amongst athletes and everyday society, the Nike Air Force 1 is undoubtedly one of the Beaverton brand’s greatest sneaker silhouettes of all time. The shoe first took flight in 1982 as a court shoe, boasting Nike Air technology. Named after the President of America’s private plane, this shoe offered both protection and flight. Designed by Bruce Kilgore, the Nike Air Force 1 continues to be popular amongst sneaker purists and everyday wearers to this day. Besides Air technology the sneakers boasted new and innovative features such as a cup sole, exceeding durability within an athlete’s gameplay. A threaded outsole also helped basketballers movements so they could fulfil their sporting potential.
Similar to drop culture today, the Air Force 1 was initially released in a ‘run,’ meaning a limited time of which the shoe was available on store shelves. Once they were gone, they were gone. This meant as an owner, acquiring a pair gave you top tier status and bragging rights within an emerging sneaker culture.
The relationship between music and sport, specifically hip-hop and basketball within New York, in the 80s and 90s, had an ever-lasting effect on the connection between sneakers and consumers. Nicknamed the “Uptowns” amongst inner-city youth, especially in Harlem, New York, the AF1 continues to release head-turning colourways, with eye-catching colour blocking schemes. The sneaker is especially important to the city of Baltimore; when Nike was planning to stop producing the shoe in ’84, the residents helped it live on. The community was later rewarded in 2017 with a “For Baltimore” release that pays homage to their efforts which essentially helped it live on to become a classic. Walking down any street, in any city, you are bound to spot a pair of white on white AF1 Lows within a matter of seconds. A timeless silhouette with a cult like status. A sneaker which is essential to any footwear rotation.
Thanks to collaborations the value behind sneakers still continues to drive an ever-growing market. The Scarr’s Pizza x Nike Air Force 1 collaboration, designed in 2019 by DJ Clark Kent was another coveted pair of sneakers rumoured to have only around 48 pairs made. If you were lucky enough to make it on “the list” amongst Scarr’s Pizza friends & family, you could now own a pair of sneakers worth over $100,000. From collaborations with the likes of Supreme, atmos and Playstation, there are plenty of rare releases for serious sneaker collectors. In a recent Sotheby’s auction we saw a pair of 2009, Nike Air Force 1 ‘Entourage x Undefeated x Fukijama Gold’ sell for a staggering $88,200, proving the model’s 40 year tenure is still very much in demand amongst sneaker enthusiasts and pop-culture enthusiasts.
An ultimate canvas. The Nike Air Force 1 is crisper than ever. 2022 is going to be a big year for the Air Force 1, with plenty of new models set to hit the shelves. With the re-emergence of the AF1 Mid, this can only be seen as the beginning of a big year for the style. The recent Air Force 1 Sculpt pays homage to the AF1s first release on the courts back in 1982, we recently visited father and daughter duo Chris Bramble and Freya Bramble-Carter, read here.
Shop the latest styles here.
Nigel Sylvester x Nike Air Force 1 Low iD – 2018
Back in 2018, Nygel Sylvester, professional BMX rider, teamed up with Nike to create two iconic pairs of NIKEiD Air Force 1s. The recently signed Nike athlete took inspiration from his home city of New York to create two draw-dropping models, perfect for any collectors sneaker rotation.
Nike Air Force 1 Low NYC Procell Wildcard – 2019
2019 brought the Nike Air Force 1 Procell, a sneaker which resembled New York City as a blank canvas to which you can create almost anything and fulfill true creative potential. Nike’s NYC Editions collaboration series featured this shoe which was a standout in the collection.
Nike Air Force 1 Low ’07 Craft Dark Beetroot – 2021
A no doubt slept on Air Force 1 model for sure. The Dark Beetroot colourway was straight forward in design but expressed jaw-dropping premium materials and qualities, right down to the metallic silver finished lace dubraes.
Nike Air Force 1 Low G-Dragon Peaceminusone Para-Noise – 2019
A stand-out collaboration which will stand the test of time amongst sneaker enthusiasts. The G-Dragon x Nike Air Force 1 Para-Noise from 2019 is unique in almost every element. Over time the peel away upper reveals G-Dragon’s artwork whilst boasting the PEACEMINUSONE daisy logo embroidered on the tongue taking you back to the artist’s South Korean heritage.
Nike Lunar Force 1 Low Acronym – 2017
In 2017, Errolson Hugh’s took his iteration on the Air Force 1 to new levels. The fashion forward design came in a triple white colourway with a lunar midsole. Features also included a zippered closure along the sides.
Nike Air Force 1 Low ’07 White Obsidian – 2019
One of the cleanest Air Force 1 colourways around. 2019 brought the Air Force 1 White Obsidian. A sneaker which can be worn with almost any outfit, the gum out-soles fitted with a crisp white upper and a eye-popping black swoosh help this shoe really stand out.
Nike Air Force 1 Low 3M Snake – 2021
Initially released in 2001, the Nike Air Force 1 Low 3M Snake (2021) pays homage to its previous predecessor. Silver 3M fabric laces the sneaker to hint reflective features. Not one to be missed.
Nike Air Force 1 Low CLOT Blue Silk – 2019
When it comes to Nike collaborations Edison Chen’s CLOT never seems to miss the mark. The Air Force 1 CLOT is drowned in luxurious silk embossed with a traditional chinese pattern. Inspired by the concept of Yin and Yang this sneaker was rumoured to be immensely limited.
Nike Air Force 1 Mid QS Jewel NYC White Midnight Navy – 2021
A re-introduction to the Air Force 1 Mid, the recent Jewel Quickstrike model inspired by the streets of NYC is a favoured shoe amongst sneaker enthusiasts. The clean colourway makes it very wearable within any fashion setting. We still have some sizes remaining in this style here.
Nike Air Force 1 High Sculpt White Silver – 2021
The Air Force 1 Sculpt takes things back to its most minimal stages. With strapless ankles and an aged mid-sole this sneaker takes you back to the AF1s early beginnings. Shop the style here.
Nike Air Force 1 Low Taiwan – 2018
A retro of all retro’s. 2018 saw one of the Air Force 1s greatest color schemes of all time re-release. Finished in patent leather this sneaker was a must have amongst AF1 collectors and sneaker loyalists.
Nike Air Force 1 Low Retro Cocoa Snake – 2018
Like the 3M snake, the ‘Cocoa Snake’ was also originally released in 2001 as a Japanese exclusive. Legendary ATMOS creative director Hirofumi Kojima confirmed the sneakers re-introduction to sneaker shelves in 2018. Head-turning snakeskin panelling makes this shoe unique in every possibility. A must have when it comes to AF1s and their historical status.
