***For the first time, we’re offering the SS3 to the public. You can shop the sneaker here. ***
In the past two years, we’ve had the amazing privilege of working with Garrixon Studios on two pairs of bespoke sneakers. In 2020 we produced 325 pairs of the SS1 (inspired by the AJ1) and last year we followed up with 800 pairs of the SS2 (inspired by the AM90). Both pairs were made using authentic soles of each model. We’re now proud to announce our third project with Garrixon, the SS3.
Our first two projects were inspired by iconic sneakers of yesteryear. With the SS3, we’re flipping the script. Not only was the SS3 a fully original build using a Vibram sole, but it was built by a group of 180 members from the SoleSavy community. This shoe isn’t just for our members, it’s by our members.
Inspired by the iconic The Great Wave Off Kanagawa woodblock print, everything from concept to sole color was decided with direct input from our community. The final product is a sight to behold and we’re incredibly proud to share this with all of our members. To commemorate this experience we’ve put together a timeline to show how the process unfolded.
September 10, 2021
We had one of our first Zoom meetings with Garrixon and members for the shoe on September 8, 2021, to discuss the general shape/direction we should take for the SS3. The results were the initial sketches for the shoe. Peep that “S” weaved into the lateral side.
September 17, 2021
After the initial sketches, the community had a few takeaways. A smaller/less exaggerated tongue, removing the Huarache-like heel strap and wanting to explore a SoleSavy tag for the shoe.
September 22, 2021
Members began to play around with color samples. Every color palette and inspiration under the sun was on the table at the moment. We had ideas inspired by everything from Buzz Lightyear to a bacon sandwich.
September 22, 2021
Community member, Michael Kay, aka @msk1cks began brainstorming colorways inspired by classic works of art. One of which was of course The Great Wave Off Kanagawa woodblock print. That colorway gained a little buzz amongst members.
September 24, 2021
“Playing off @msk1cks idea of classic paintings, Kanagawa really stuck with me. One reason is it inspired me to think of SoleSavy as this wave coming for the rest of the sneaker industry to pave a new path for future sneakerheads and inspiring a colorway off that got me excited. The big S could be the wave. So here are a few ideas for this one. I would print this painting on the insoles if we legally are allowed.” – DP
September 25, 2021
After seeing Kay’s initial idea and DP’s cosign, Kanagawa-inspired colorways began to catch on in the community and were confirmed to be the direction for the project.
September 28, 2021
After confirming Kanagawa was the theme, it was time for the community to decide on color-blocking. Four options were in the running and the community voted on their favorite.
September 30, 2021
After voting on the color-blocking for the shoe, we needed to decide on which color sole paired best. Another vote was held, the community decided between a blue, white, and gum sole.
November 23, 2021
Materials for the shoe begin to arrive. The first sample should arrive just at the turn of the year.
December 2, 2021
The first pullover for the SS3. Garrixon used this all-white base to nail down the design and shape of the shoe.
January 10, 2022
Community member, Nithin Kadayil, aka @NKYDL made a suggestion for packaging. A wooden-style box (an homage to the original print) that features the Kanagawa wave on the inside. Peep that tissue paper, it features early ideas and sketches for the SS3.
January 18, 2022
Garrixon sent over a swatch card for the first SS3 sample. It was really cool to get a look at the textures and materials that’ll comprise the shoe.
January 19, 2022
We have our first sample. The community came together and had a few notes for the Garrixon team:
- Replace panels with pebbled leather
- Darker navy toe box
- Painted blue sole
- The toe box looks too round/boxy
January 27, 2022
Garrixon noted the feedback from the community and was quickly able to turn around a second sample. DP happened to be in Philadelphia so he was able to give the community an on-foot look at the sneaker.
January 28, 2022
DP continued to wear test the SS3 and provide feedback to the Garrixon team. He even stepped in the kicks cam with those beauties.
February 2, 2022
After wear testing and conversing with the Garrixon team, a few updates were run by the community:
- Swapping the leather sock liner for mesh (similar to the one utilized on the SS2) for more padding, support, and breathability.
- For the tongue, leaving leather on the outside but on the backside using a mesh to improve comfort and how it sits on your foot.
- The sole color was corrected to ensure it was a more neutral blue to match the remainder of the shoe
February 11, 2022
Detailed shots of the SS3! She’s a beauty, huge tip of the cap to all of the members that had a hand involved in designing the SS3.
The SS3 will retail for $190 USD and come in whole sizes 5-13. The shoe runs true-to-size so we recommend sizing up for a roomier fit or sizing down for a more snug fit. Members, be on the lookout for preorder information. A post will be made in #announcements with all the info you need to secure your pair.
