Bold Collection: Birkenstock to release high-end versions of Arizona and Boston models
The capsule is in collaboration with craftsmen Takashi Okabe and James Otter
When you hear the brand Birkenstock, most of the time what comes to mind is their Arizona and Boston models. These two silhouettes are the icons that became integral parts of the brand’s success.
This month, both models will once again be honored and be given a new look. In collaboration with Takashi Okabe and James Otter, influential curators and craftsmen, a new line called “Bold” will be released with military inspirations.
“We have been influenced by the strength and functionality of the dual-prong or ‘double tongue’ buckle. This buckle has workwear as well as military provenance, proven to be more secure when carrying heavier loads on a belt, such as tools and ammunition,” describes the brand.
One key feature that this line will be highlighting is the “bold” buckle that’s made out of brass. These heavy-duty double prong buckles are fully functional particularly when combined with thicker than usual straps. For this line, the straps will be 35mm thick which will give a more masculine look and better foot coverage, while the buckle will feature a 35mm double pin in full metal.
Aside from telling a story about the mighty inspiration for this collection, the brand also aims to highlight storytelling through their collaborators. Takashi Okabe is the director of London’s Clutch Café, which is a menswear store where he curates London’s finest edit of “American casual style” edited through Japanese lens.
“Style is all about being comfortable and happy about who you are,” shares Takashi. “When choosing a product, I think about what it will be like to wear in ten years’ time. These things are all about bringing happiness, and being authentic in who you are and what you do.”
James Otter
As part of the campaign, Birkenstock also partnered with James Otter for a one-of-a-kind surfboard. The master woodworker designed a hand-made all-wooden board which is based on the legendary Californian “Eagle” design. “I think that creating something by hand is what defines us as humans,” James says. “When you create something with your hands you leave something of yourself in the thing that you make. That makes a huge difference. And every time you paddle out with these boards you feel that humanity.”
The “Bold” collection will be available on July 7 in the Philippines exclusively at Birkenstock SM Mall of Asia, Birkenstock Alabang Town Center, and Birkenstock Lucky Chinatown Mall. The collection will also be available at selected retail stores worldwide.
