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This Just In: Brandblack

Our team highlights L.A.’s Brandblack, a high-performance shoe line inspired by the west coast.

By: Eric Mutrie

Each season, our buyers set out to build upon our existing footwear and apparel roster by adding a few new designers into the mix. After all, fresh perspective is important. That said, it takes a lot to impress our discerning team members, who carefully assess each potential introduction until they’ve found that balance between contemporary appeal and enduring relevance. The rare brands that pass their test are distinguished by rich back stories and high-quality production techniques.

We’re proud to carry Brandblack’s high-performance shoes at Harry Rosen this season.

Background

After leading teams at Fila and Adidas, David Raysse set out to launch a footwear brand of his very own. Using classic hiking, basketball and skate silhouettes as starting points, L.A.-based Brandblack creates high-performance shoes distinguished by their elevated materials. In other words, it delivers the perfect reflection of the west coast lifestyle: active but relaxed, laid-back yet refined.

Our Team’s Take

“Men’s footwear has seen a lot of sports- and outdoor-inspired designs lately,” notes Silvert. “But what we haven’t really seen yet is the convergence of performance and style, which is what makes Brandblack so compelling.” Take the Sansin shoe, for example. “It’s part hiking boot, part trail runner,” Silvert explains. “The speckled Vibram outsole gives it traction, but mesh and suede uppers mean it looks just as great in the city as it does on the trails.”

How to Wear It

“Brandblack is a natural fit for outdoor activities, where you might pair it with a rain-resistant nylon bomber or moisture-wicking T-Shirt,” Silvert says. But Brandblack is also ready to bring some rugged style to weekend life. “It’s perfectly suited to casual attire, too — anything where a clean tennis sneaker might look a little too refined.”