Ok, we admit it. ‘Need’ is probably too strong of a word to use when we’re talking about another pair of sneakers, as we assume if you’ve listened to any of our sneaker advice before, you now have quite a collection. So maybe it’s more sensible to file all these sneakers you’re about to be introduced to as ‘nice to have’ or simply ‘I want these’. But why should you want another pair of sneakers? Well, we’re glad you asked.
Here at OPUMO, we’re proud to introduce the latest name to our sneaker rotation, Jak, the Portuguese sneaker collective who have been garnering a lot of attention of late for putting their own spin on the ever-popular premium sneaker. Since the stripped-back simplicity of the premium sneaker stole the hearts of so many of us a few years back, a slew of brands have cottoned on to the idea, meaning there is now a range of clean and contemporary variations upon the luxury sneaker archetype. Which also means, the classic lace-up sneaker has never been so relevant. Jak is taking the simplistic aesthetic of the premium sneaker in a whole new direction and we naturally thought you’d like to be the first to know. So, scroll down to discover some of our favourite Jak sneakers and to find out a bit more about the burgeoning Portuguese sneaker brand.
Jak, founded in 2014 in Lisbon by Isabel and Jose Maria, has become known for being sneaker perfectionists; as the brand creates a range of modern, minimal sneakers that are made with precision, care and the highest quality craftsmanship. Completely sourced and manufactured in Portugal, Jak’s shoes are made instantly recognisable thanks to their refined appearance, impactful presentation and unique colourways that range from the classic Royal Navy and Black hues to the more progressive and equally popular Mustard and Grape designs. Take the Jak Atom, for instance. Due to its unique one-piece-of-leather design, the sneaker’s flexibility and durability is almost unrivalled. The full-grain leather not only carries natural markings that will age beautifully over time, but it also gathers at the tongue to provide the Atom with its soft, stand-up design.
Maybe, you’re not quite ready to let the summer go. Which is fair enough. It is only August. In this case, you might want to opt for a pair of Jak Olympic sneakers which come with a lightweight sports rubber sole and a subtle two-tone leather upper. The Olympics' high-shine leather uppers and contrasting calfskin linings will make for a wonderfully low-key sneaker and will offer the perfect contrast to a grey tapered trouser in the warm summer evenings.
The Legacy is the definitive silhouette in the latest Jak footwear collection as it epitomises the brand’s ability to push boundaries through innovative design and inventive detailing. We believe that a classic gum sole can transform the fortunes of any sneaker, so it comes as no surprise that Jak has enrolled the classic gum sole across every Legacy silhouette this summer. The sneaker makes the most of its gum sole by contrasting it with a range of coloured suede uppers, a comfortable calfskin lining and tonal laces. Wear yours with a subdued black t-shirt and a pair of slim-fitting jeans to allow the gum sole and pop-coloured upper to blaze a trail beneath you.
Shop the latest Jak collection at OPUMO.
Be sure to check out our ultimate guide to men’s trainers.
