If you want something a little more interesting than the usual Adidas, then check out the MaTes Carmel Classic trainers.
That’s one of the big selling points here – standing out from the crowd. You might like the idea of an Adidas City Series reissue, but so do a lot of people. And you will see a lot of those out and about. Something like this is less likely to be seen on other people’s feet.
MaTes is a small maker from an era when small makers were at the heart of the sportswear market, long before firms like Adidas, Nike and Puma had all the shoes and all of the marketing budget.
Back then, the Spanish label had a name for purpose-made shoes for serious athletes, starting way back in 1947, which continued through to the 1970s, when those big companies started their dominance.
But things have changed in the leisure market of late and people are looking for something just a little more interesting, especially as prices for ‘classics’ are on the rise and smaller firms are on the internet and available to your front door. The MaTes trainers are suddenly a strong option.
The strongest option in the range is a shoe designed in the 1960s and still being made by hand using the same processes developed by Francesc Mates today – the Carmel Classic. It’s the shoe you see here.
Originally a running shoe, this is now a superb leisure option, with a simple/classic design that really hasn’t aged a bit. Suede upper, gum sole and the vintage contrasting branding is pretty much it.
Lots of colours for the suede finish, as you can see here.
As for the price, well they don;t come cheap, but when you think that the Adidas City Series range pushes £90 these days, they don’t cost much more considering the handmade nature of these. A pair is priced at €109.
Browse all the range at the MaTes website
Via His Knibs
