Growing up on the South Side of St. Louis, there were limited opportunities for which direction a young black man could go in his life. You either sold drugs, got into trouble with the law, joined a gang, or end up in a coffin. Many of my peers at the time, found their way involved with one of the three options. My family helped me go another route by moving NYC. In NYC, I earned my BA in Marketing and PR, which led me to write for Gents Among Men. By separating myself from the expected norms of my environment, gave me the opportunity to work with various brands such as Reebok on their latest Sole Fury, “#SplitFrom” campaign.
Utilizing an updated take on Reebok’s classic Split Cushioning technology from the ’90s Instapump, the Sole Fury features a blocky two-piece midsole and a two-tone upper, split directly between a white lateral side and a white/volt medial side. The interweaving of multiple textures adds a layered effect to the upper, which is then tied together with thick neon laces. At the time people considered the look as radical. However, now top designers are following their footsteps.
The Sole Fury sneaker was an innovative idea for the brand in the 90’s which is why I connected with the campaign. Many of us tend to be a follower versus making our own decisions. I’ve always prided myself on being an individual, a leader of oneself. Splitting from the pack means being truly yourself and maintaining that individuality.
This was a paid partnership with Reebok. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.