Sitting in North Wales, after a rather difficult year I am now rejoicing in this fine pair I have added to my collection. I like classics. The Nike Air Trainer is one such classic. One of the first cross trainers to enter the market in the 1980’s. I vividly remember seeing the chlorophyl colourway in the local sports shop and knowing that looking at them, perhaps even holding the right one from the shelf was the closest I was going to get to them for many years.

Tinker Hatfield, a legendary shoe designer for Nike is behind this shoe, as he is behind so many other of my favourite silhouettes. Designed for needs that were beginning to arise from many amateur athletes at this time, they were placed upon the feet of sporting legends John McEnroe and Bo Jackson. Of course they were going to be an outright success, even if they weren’t one of the comfiest items of footwear made thus far.

Enough of the history, that can be found in many places as a result of a Google search if you so wish. Let’s get back to the Velvets. I saw them months ago, but not my size. I looked and I looked and then I looked a little more. No luck. And as if by Mr. Bens’ magic, lady luck turned her gaze in my direction just a few weeks ago, there they were hiding out on a UK website, one size - my size, on sale !! BOOM !!

I love brogues. They are such a timeless and generally well crafted design. I love the idea of a shoe factory that has existed for many generations hand making them to old standards and designs. And yes, I am not stupid enough to think that these have been hand crafted. That would be ridiculous. It’s the style though. I love it. Nike, regardless of what many say, do make fine footwear. These are some of the best I’ve ever seen. The leather is buttery soft. The gum sole pops in it’s classic and highly sought after simplicity, the flashes of gold and sand give the perfect contrast to the darker tones. As for the holes poked to make the patterns. Perfection.

My only dilemma now; do I go glittery gold or sand with the laces? I like exiting my comfort zone, I’ve a feeling that come morning, righty will be laced the same as lefty.

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