In the world of innovation evolving at whirlwind speed, with ever-increasing market competition, there are many ideas, but, it seems, few revolutionary ones that would leave a mark or completely change the perception of some occurrences. When it comes to sports, a legendary Finnish brand managed to go down in history as a pioneer in technology development field and to become the leading manufacturer of running shoes, in a very short time. From hand-made items for some of the most successful last century athletes to cutting-edge running and lifestyle silhouettes designed for urban players, behind the slogan of Finland’s legendary sports brand is a name that rightly deserves the attention of every sneaker culture fan. Introducing KARHU, a new brand on our shelves, eagerly waiting to be discovered.
KARHU IS BORN: A BRIEF HISTORY OF BRAND’S ORIGIN
It all started way back in 1916 in the city of Helsinki, where a workshop called Ab sportartiklar Oy was founded, which initially manufactured skis, spears and birch discs, and soon started developing running shoes that, among other things, would be worn by the first “Flying Finn”, Hannes Kolehmainen and Ville Ritola – long-distance running world champion. Four years later, company changes its name to KARHU (Finnish for “bear: ), Flying Finns dominate trails across the globe, the brand receives numerous accolades, and Paavo Nurmi returns home with nine Olympic gold medals in the now-famous running shoe.
THREE STRIPES AND CREATION OF MESTARI LOGO
In the 1950s, some of the most famous athletes won kilometers in KARHU models, but what many don’t know is that the three stripes from their sprinters ended up as the recognizable logo of another sport gear manufacturer. Story goes like this, one detail on contestants’ sneakers, led by Emil Zátopek, dominated the Olympic Games in Helsinki (1952) with as many as 15 medals won. That detail was sold to Adidas, which still uses it today. Not long after, the brand registered its famous M logo, then the only official logo on running shoes. It originated from the Finnish word Mestari, which translates as “champion”. Different variations of this logo can still be seen on some KARHU models today.
KARHU IN THE MODERN WORLD OF SNEAKERS
From innovative Air Cushion system to the Fulcrum and Aero Foam technology of the midsole, KARHU sneakers, in addition to impressive design, are distinguished by incredible comfort. Running, as the inspiration for the creation of the most famous lifestyle models, means only one thing - comfort in its purest form, but also design details that give sneakers the appearance of speed and assertiveness. Sole in the spotlight, different textures and materials combos in the upper and colorways varying from classic and basic tones, all the way to pastel and striking. Best of all, these sneakers easily find their way to sneaker trendsetters. Street style outfits of many sneakerheads, influencers and urban culture supporters cannot do without one of the current KARHU models. Our offer currently includes models from the Mascot Pack range - Legacy and Fusion 2.0. from the “Fear Bear” edition, as well as the Aria and Fusion models available in “Cheer Bear” edition.
Full KARHU offer is available in the Tike shop as well as online, and we invite you to encounter an entirely different sneaker experience and complete your collection with at least one pair of this legendary Finnish brand.
