New York imprint 18 East works in collaboration with Padmore & Barnes on the third footwear together and this time, the duo highlight the OG Wallabee. It takes on an adventurous perspective this time around and is inspired by the German company Sioux and its Gradhoper design.
Taking the P204 by Padmore & Barnes as the base foundation of the shoe, it now gets a lightly utilitarian design update. It is constructed from Italian suede materials throughout the upper and is complete with a weatherproof membrane as the lining in preparation for the colder seasons ahead. It all rests on top of the Vibram lightweight Morflex outsole foundation, which also helps with gripping throughout the winter terrain.
Image Credit: 18 East
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Weatherproof Footwear
- The utilization of weatherproof membrane lining in shoes offers a disruptive innovation opportunity for shoe manufacturers to cater to customers living in colder regions or who frequently visit such areas.
- Lightweight Outsole
- The use of lightweight outsoles like Vibram Morflex in shoes presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for shoe manufacturers looking to cater to people who prefer lightweight and comfortable shoes.
- Mocassin-style Design
- The design of slip-on, mocassin-style shoes can be seen as a trend that presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for manufacturers to create more comfortable yet stylish shoes.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Footwear
- The footwear industry can explore the use of weatherproof membrane linings and lightweight outsoles to create more comfortable and convenient shoes for customers.
- Fashion
- The fashion industry can incorporate the trend of mocassin-style and slip-on shoes into their collections for a more casual yet stylish look in their designs.
- Outdoor Gear
- Outdoor gear companies can cater to people who spend time outdoors or in colder regions by utilizing weatherproof membrane lining and lightweight outsole technology in their shoes.
