Dress Your Feet In Cane Toads And Kangaroos
All the cool kids seem to be sneakerheads these days – and with the renaissance of that market there is a lot to choose from. Australian-based menswear line Gideon Shoes distinguishes itself from the pack with a one-two punch of street and ethical cred.
Why We Love It!
These are shoes that stay true to their soles (sorry, we couldn’t help it!). Every pair is hand-stitched right at home in Australia and made from local materials. The designs are sleek and sporty—stylish, without sacrificing comfort or cows. Who knew powder blue and shiny gold leather made from invasive cane toads could be quite so cool?
The eyes-wide-open policy doesn’t stop when designs head to the assembly line for production; all Gideon Shoes are produced at ethical factories within Australia. Proceeds support The Street University, an offshoot of the Noffs Foundation, which works to provide support and alternatives to young people dealing with drug and alcohol problems and related trauma. “Gideon Shoes are hand-crafted and anti-sweatshop,” the founders proudly point out, “meaning you can wear them with pride, and with your beliefs on your feet.”
Our Pick
It’s a tough call, but we were swayed in the end by the outrageous cool of the CLSC HI LTHRs in grape and gold. They’re the perfect blend of noisy and nonchalant, and their swagger perfectly epitomizes the key to Gideons: the ability to both talk the talk and walk a very low-key, fashionable walk.
Price Check
Kicks range from AU$69 to $189. Find yourself a pair here.
