Dansko clogs are crazy popular. I met some great folks from Anchorage that do over $1,000,000.00 in Dansko sales a year in their store. Here's the thing though, Dansko doesn't really make their own shoes (and who really does these days with most things being made in Chinese factories). This is where it gets interesting; the company that makes Dansko's clogs, with that bombproof, uber-supportive platform that gives such great support for most feet, is now out of the confines of a patent and are going to be offering identical shoes themselves. Just try to buy a pair of Danskos in Europe, it won't happen, because they don't exist. The salesmen you'd be describing the shoe to would tell you, "Those are Sanita Clogs you silly American". Sanita Clogs have been making footwear since 1907, and since the late 1991 making clogs for Mandy Cabot and Peter Kjellerup of Dansko. So how will this work? Aren't they essentially in competition with themselves? Will Dansko continue to thrive based
on their stellar reputation here? Personally, I can't wait to get them in my store. I've always liked Dansko, but haven't carried them since a dealer is only a block and a half away. Please, if I have my facts all wrong here let me know. I certainly did some research but could be off on something here. All this was written after overhearing an interesting conversation at the big Vegas shoe show. By the way, can you tell which one of the clogs pictured is a Dansko and which is a Sanita?
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September 06, 2007
May 18, 2007
February 12, 2007
Oh, to be a rock star
What a niche these folks have targetted: Beattle boot replicas! A must for any real rock 'n roller. This one to the left is said to be THE original worn by Liverpool's finest. Really nice craftsmanship from first glance. Makes me wanna twist and shout for a hard days night on that long and winding road...sorry. You can see the whole collection HERE.
January 25, 2007
An homage to Chuck
You may get the wrong impression from me on this one but I just have to pay a quick homage to good ol'
Chuck Taylor, the Converse Chuck Taylor to be precise. This shoe goes against nearly all of my "ideals" when it comes to shoes (i.e. no support, flat as a pancake, etc.). Yet despite the shortcomings, these are one of the worlds most recognizable shoes and have been made in as many colors and patterns imaginable LINK. As well, a pair of multicolored Chuck Taylors were the very first shoe I can ever remember yearning for. Converse has a long and storied history LINK , were truly the first of their kind and have even survived a major corporate buyout (Nike). Therefore in my book I consider these an obvious icon. Thanks Converse, thanks Chuck Taylor.
January 24, 2007
The perfect sandal
Chaco Sandals, from the nethers of Colorado, have arisen as the epitome of perfect footwear. They have it all: simple unique design, attention to fit, durability and the ethos to back it all up. I originally found Chaco at a small booth at the Outdoor Retailer Show in Salt Lake City over 10 years ago. We have carried Birkenstocks at our store since 1984 and always loved their design and fit but were consistently disappointed in their outdoor and active performance. When I saw the universally adjustable Chaco Z1, Elan and Tokay sandals it was love at first sight. With it's high arch and rear flanges, the Z footbed was a clear stand out. Chaco Sandals became the perfect compliment to our sandal selection and in recent years far outsell even the tried and true Birkenstock in our store. Chaco has gone from it's humble start as a well conceived rough river sandal that wouldn't sell out like it's familiar neighbor on many shelves to a universal sandal for those who want comfort, support and both durability and sustainability in their travel, leisure and active footwear. Just ask any river monkey and they'll tell you, Chaco can't be beat!
