words_Jeremy Ripley
Today’s footwear market is shamelessly predicated on age-old reissues, invariably making way for dated design cues and antiquated cushioning systems. With the Nike/Jordan behemoth capturing 93 slots on the 2007 list of 100 best sellers, it is tough to forecast an end to this era of shoddy quality and limited shenanigans. Sure, there has been a fair share of wonderfully crafted models from yesteryear released over the past few years, (see Converse’s new take on the Pro Leather ’76 and Jordan Brand’s XX3) but if you’ve scanned the walls of a mall retailer recently, you’ve probably openly wondered, “Where’s the new stuff?”
As a connoisseur who’s always looking for new-age gems from all corners of the industry, I relish finding a pair and blasting my friends into the Twilight Zone with neglected and overlooked flavor. Over the course of the next few months, we here at Sole Collector will bring you intriguing, interesting, and atypical designs from the hiking, marine, and outdoors industries that catch our eye. In small doses of course.
Lowa, a Stamford, Connecticut mountaineering troupe offers German craftsmanship in each one of their hiking, trekking, and backpacking models. Focusing on lightweight and breathable elements, the company has become undeniably popular in the outdoors community.
The AL-X 89 XCR Mid is a progressive extension of the ’07 AL-X 88 XCR Mid that features a waterproof inner lining that is perfect for combating the wet and sticky tribulations you may come across. The rest of the upper is comprised of high-density GoreTex, which I hear is code word for indestructible. The midfoot and outsole is enveloped in a PU support wrap that provides a striking visual element and stellar support.
The AL-X 44 Lo features a completely waterproof upper, thanks to healthy allowances of breathable mesh. The shoe also incorporates the PU support wrap and a rubber outsole for added traction.
The AL-X 44 Lo retails for $125, while the AL-X 89 XCR Mid sells for $160. For more info, check out lowa.com
AL-X 44 Lo:
AL-X 89 XCR Mid:
August 2nd, 2008 at 12:45 am
Haha, great stuff J (Nick?). Well, whoever wrote it, you have a fan in me. It’s definitely fun to look for new blood, wearing things out of their intended context, ect. Keeps things fresh.
Lowa shoes are extremely well made, but the AL-X series aren’t cushy in the least. I replaced the insole in my 88s and I wear them all the time. They are holding up very well. Real light and waterproof and I’m a fan of how they look.
Some of the models can be found discounted through google. There are some deals to be had for anyone looking to try a pair.