2008 - BEST OF THE BEST SNEAKERS

Interestingly enough, the shoe I picked as my best was one that I picked up towards the start of the year. In a year where the global market was fire-bombed by shoes left, right and centre as companies tried to capitalise on the boom, it was becoming rare to see something that really made you re-think footwear design. I was given an in-depth rundown behind the way the Lhamo Folk was designed when I was in Tokyo, and to see that kind of belief behind a product by the company that made it was truly inspirational.

All bias aside, I have to admit it really lived up to everything that they said it was, which is kind of rare with the marketing mumble jumble you hear in the current footwear market.
It’s amazing to see old technology infused with new ideas and work so perfectly together.
The untreated elk leather is not only remarkably breathable, it also feels like butter on your skin. The segmented outsole gives you maximum flexibility and the cork instep moulds to your walking style with time.
It almost feels like you’re not even wearing shoes when you’ve got these on. I was somewhat sceptical at first about wearing them without socks, but after the first time I was hooked, and these have been my trusted companions on my many travels this year. At last count these soles have seen the soil of five different countries so far. Almost ten months on I’m still raving about them. This is one shoe that I believe everybody should have, and that’s why these are my pick of ‘08.