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Obsession: Nike Vintage Tennis Shoes

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It's no secret that sneakers are back in vogue and it's no secret that I love what Nike has been doing as of late. Their teched out running sneakers like Lunaracers, Free Runs, LunarGlides, and Flyknits I especially love. The colors and technology are so refreshing. It's even given me nostalgia for the recent Air Max and Air Huarache reissues. But I'll always have a soft spot for their classic white tennis shoe.

If you're obsessed like I am here's some great eye candy courtesy of Lightning Japan. Enjoy the subtlety of the details and a timeless era that goes with everything...

Monday, February 18, 2013 | Permalink | Comments (3)

The World Of Globe Specs With Tetsuya Okada

For my first film in a four part series for K-Swiss Japan on classic style, we visited Tetsuya Okada of Globe Specs. Established in 1998 his Shibuya flagship store is one of the most interesting eyewear boutiques in Tokyo. An optician and eyewear connoisseur, Tetsuya has incredible insight and knowledge.

We sat down to discuss the classic worldly influences that have shaped his brand and Japanese style culture in general. With a great eye for taste, Tetsuya has merchandised his store with amazing brands and goods, with a clear emphasis on classic American style. Special thanks to Ryan Babenzien and Eva Soroken. Enjoy...

Thursday, April 05, 2012 | Permalink | Comments (101)

Giveaway: New Balance Custom US574

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Not too long ago I directed a film on the New Balance Custom US574. A classic silhouette that you can now customize in several different ways. As a token of my appreciation for coming here and hopefully vibing what I do, me and New Balance are giving away a free pair of 574's for you to customize. 

It's pretty simple. Hit me with your name and active e-mail in the comments section. Follow me on Twitter @JakeDavisFilms and one of you will be picked at random and given the code to make your own pair, free of charge including shipping to your home. Thanks again for your support. It means the world to me.

 

Jake Davis Twitter link

New Balance Custom US574 Official link

Thursday, August 04, 2011 | Permalink | Comments (127)

Premiere: New Balance Custom US574 Film

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I've always been fascinated with process... I think it was ever since watching Mister Rogers as a youth. I recently had the opportunity to direct a film for New Balance highlighting its made in the USA customization process for the 574. The result is something between a Wes Anderson directed factory film and A Tribe Called Quest's Midnight Marauders. Super quirky, light, and probably a little off the beaten path of what you'd expect from me.

I have to commend New Balance for being the only athletic company that still produces a portion of their sneakers in America. Special thanks to the incredibly kind people over there especially Erin and Lou. Shout to Sean Sullivan for his still photography on the project, David Feinberg on the cut, and Chris Black for putting it all together. This is how people make sneakers...

Official New Balance Custom US574 link

Thursday, April 07, 2011 | Permalink | Comments (38)

Exclusive Look: K-Swiss x Billy Reid

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Besides having an affinity for white canvas sneakers I also have great respect for classic American menswear designer Billy Reid. Last year we brought you some films from K-Swiss spotlighting him. Now we bring you the result of their collaboration.

Take a look at Billy's vintage pair from his personal collection here in his Test Shot. I also had to take a picture with my iPhone since I thought they were incredible! The subtle changes he made to the original like rope laces and lining are really nice. The wooden box is handmade in Alabama and will be used for a special mailing prior to the release on April 19th. Two additional colorways of grey and navy will also be available.

Billy Reid Official link

K-Swiss Official link

Tuesday, April 05, 2011 | Permalink | Comments (30)

Exclusive Look: Vans Syndicate x Luke Meier For Supreme

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We first showed you the incredible Vans Syndicate designed by our homie Luke Meier back in the summer. With the release of a new navy colorway this Black Friday exclusively for Supreme and the complimentary film directed by Kahlil Joseph, I thought it was time to get some insight from the guy who is the leading force behind Supreme's collaborative footwear.

It feels like yesterday when me, Luke, and Chris would bullshit at Union about sneakers and other monotonous shit that we love. The more things change, the more they stay the same... I'll keep it brief because I really only like to look at pictures too...

How did the relationship start with Vans & Supreme?

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"Berto Liechty from Syndicate and Supreme LA approached me about designing a new model for Syndicate. I'd known him for a while through mutual friends and work, and I'd also known the Vans crew from some of the Supreme and Vans projects."

Is there a reference point for the sneakers?

The general reference point is traditional shoemaking shapes within Vans technique. More specifically, some of the details are ideas I'd had for a while, and I finally got to put them to use. Some were inspired by luxury leather goods and others by vintage skate shoes.

Can you talk about the design process?

The shoe design was based on the destruction of shoes when skateboarding. I wanted to use luxurious materials and tried to give it a high-quality overall feel with the idea that it will be destroyed when it's put to its intended use. Specifically I put the leather accents in spots where they will get the most abuse.

Are they meant to be skate in or worn for style?

Because they are Vans Syndicate they were made with the intention of being a good skate shoe first and foremost. If people like to just wear them for the style, even better.

What are your thoughts on the current state of sneaker culture and design?

I think it's cool that people who were into sneakers have started looking outside of the usual brands and have embraced all kinds of footwear. Obviously these days people are paying a lot more attention to traditional brands like Alden and Red Wing, and most people now even understand what Goodyear welt construction is. However, everything goes through phases. At the end of the day if the product is good it's good, whether it's a sneaker or a wingtip brogue, and people will gravitate towards it. A company like Vans offers products that will always remain in style, at times to a greater or lesser degree. I hope that my project can be seen as something that fits into the tradition that Vans has perpetuated.

Can you talk about the incredible film directed by Kahlil Joseph that accompanies the sneaker release?

When I asked Kahlil if he would make a film to support this project, I explained the concept to him, and he was into it. He far exceeded my expectations and I think he made an amazing film. The piece is very much his vision, and is actually the first work he has done that incorporates skateboarding. I think that the film reflects the aesthetic of the entire project in a natural way, and I'm honored that he and his team worked so hard in its realization. Chris Gibbs who co-produced the film also helped out a lot, as he's always someone who adds great perspective and influence.

For more info about the Destroy Luxury project and to watch the film hit the link below...

Official Vans Syndicate link

Tuesday, November 23, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (23)

Polo Ralph Lauren Elias Sun-Washed Denim Sneaker

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Okay I get it. You want me to post more clothing... To be honest I haven't seen anything all that inspiring. Everyone's riding the classic Americana dick a little too hard.

But there are the usual brands that seem to never disappoint. I've been fiending for denim sneakers since I slept on the bleached denim Supreme Vans that sold out in like a minute. These Polo Ralph Lauren Elias Sun-Washed Sneakers are really special. They were actually washed and laid in the sun for a timeworn look. They're available in a few other colors I had to pick up... White and pink scarlet sunfade cotton canvas. They come with a matching sack as well for storage or travel or to sit in your shoebox. Act now as they're on sale and won't last much longer...

Polo Ralph Lauren Elias Sun-Washed Sneaker link

Thursday, July 15, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (40)

Inventory Magazine Sneaker Diary x Jake Davis

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I picked up a couple copies of Inventory Magazine number 02 at Nomad over the weekend. I'm really proud to be a part of this issue. I truly think it's one of the better magazines out right now for us. Very tastefully done from the photography to design layout.

I think we all love sneakers... More specifically white tennis shoes. I have so many favorites from Chucks to Classics. I'm not sure why the Vintage Rod Laver stands out the most. I think it's my connection to tennis and my childhood idols. Anyway I hope you enjoy the article... And if you're fiending J.Crew now has the vintage Rod Laver available online...

Inventory Magazine link

Vintage Rod Laver J.Crew link

Nomad link

Wednesday, June 23, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (29)

Unboxing: Luke Meier For Syndicate Vans Zero Lo

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I absolutely love the collaboration between my friend Luke Meier and Vans. Luke has a really sophisticated eye for detail. The way he's combined "street" and "luxury" style is really interesting. The materials feel great and the tan color combinations work so well together. You have three lace options... White, tan, and brown... All really subtle beautiful colors.

Thanks so much for sending these over. You did a terrific job, man. I look forward to more design work from you... Congratulations. So dope...

Tuesday, June 22, 2010 | Permalink | Comments (15)

Basics: White Tennis Shoe

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James Dean in a pair of white Jack Purcells

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I love asking you guys for advice on the basics from t-shirts to cologne. Now I want to hear from you about white tennis shoes. Personally, I wouldn't play tennis in any of the above sneakers, but I do like it when people refer to any athletic sneaker as a tennis shoe. 

The white tennis shoe is a staple in my closet and most likely yours as well. There are so many different styles, brands, and variations. I want to hear which are your favorite of all time. Here are some classic starters...

Rod Laver Vintage - Original Tournament Collection | Adidas
Stan Smith Vintage | Adidas
Jack Purcell CP | Converse
Striper CVO | Sperry Top-Sider
Authentic | Vans
Chuck Taylor All Star | Converse

Monday, October 05, 2009 | Permalink | Comments (97)

Respect The Architect: Adidas Robert Haillet

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Vintage Adidas Robert Haillet circa 1965

If you were to apply the Diffusion of Innovation Theory to sneakers the "Robert Haillet" would be a perfect example of a wild innovator. Adidas created the first all-leather tennis shoe in 1965. At the time the concept of an all-leather fabrication was incredibly groundbreaking in the arena of sport. However, its connector the out of prime tennis player himself, Mr. Haillet, was the wrong endorser to achieve wide spread popularity for such a forward idea. It wasn't until 1971 when Adidas renamed and endorsed the sneaker after the much loved and accoladed Stan Smith that it reached its tipping point.

The Robert Haillet was the first sneaker to make me fall in love with the simplicity of design. The first time I saw it was at Union in the late 90's on the feet of true innovators Chris Gibbs and Joe Thompson. It was the first time for me a sneaker got as much respect as a proper dress shoe. As hard as my friends tried to track down my size it never happened for the kid. The Robert Haillet will forever be the one that got away. But that's how first loves are sometimes... I'm sure you have one as well...

Saturday, March 07, 2009 | Permalink | Comments (14)

Needles Gillie Sneaker

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The truth... Thanks to W.P. for the heads up...

Needles link

Tuesday, February 03, 2009 | Permalink | Comments (6)

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