This Just In: Salomon

Brand Background:

While Salomon’s heritage as a skiing label means that it has always commanded a high degree of respect among the outdoor recreation crowd, lately the company’s rugged sneakers have also gained a following in more fashion-forward circles. Especially with the recent rise of utilitarian “gorpcore” style, the functionality-driven French brand has become a go-to for its stylish takes on technical footwear.

Our Team’s Take:

Renata Leung, our Divisional Merchandise Manager of Footwear and Accessories, first noticed Salomon sneakers being worn by the style gods at Pitti Uomo, the biannual menswear trade show held in Florence, Italy – a sure sign that the shoes have become a bonafide fashion trend. “Right now, Salomon is creating this bridge between athletic gear and more everyday clothing,” she says. “They're translating elements from the outdoor space – like waterproof Gore-Tex and bungee- cord laces – into a lifestyle shoe.”

How To Wear It:

Leung feels that Salomon’s footwear pairs especially well with relaxed, everyday pants, whether those be joggers, a pair of denim, or even a pair of rolled-up, straight- leg chinos. “We’re not targeting the guy who’s about to go on an actual hike,” she says. “It’s more about introducing this as an alternative to a sneaker that you might otherwise wear to go grab a coffee. It’s something cool to incorporate into a casual wardrobe.”