Karhu - From the Olympics to the Sidewalk

The Finnish brand Karhu has been manufacturing technical running trainers for outdoor apparel for over 100 years, and has firmly established itself as a premium running brand. 

Following the Finnish principles of simple design aesthetics, and combining it with an authentic athletic heritage and a deep connection to the outdoors, Karhu have formed themselves an organic persona harnessed from the growth of the interests of those at the core of the brand.

Karhu footwear has been worn over the years by several of the great Finnish runners, including Paavo Nurmi, the five time Boston Marathon winner. 

Focusing on innovation throughout their pieces, Karhu were the first to develop the patented Air Cushion midsole in its running footwear, and establishing the trademark M-logo branding across their running shoes in 1960. The M-logo represents “Mestari”, which is the Finnish word for “champion”.

Various designs of the M-logos have adorned Karhu shoes over the years and are still in use today.

An example of the signature style of classic Karhu footwear is the Aria 95 silhouette. Coming through in this subtle, yet pleasing Dawn Blue and Carrot colourway, with the signature M-logo.

Featuring suede and textile uppers, with an inner carbon fibre fulcrum for smoother transitions and a mono tongue upper construction for supreme comfort. 

The timeless contemporary style of 90s running trainers shines brightly in this classic and ever popular piece.

The Karhu Legacy 96 stays true to the original, featuring the classic compression moulded EVA midsole, with premium pigskin suede uppers, and synthetic overlays.

With the Ensign Blue and Lily White colourway, the beautiful combination of colouring, with the speckled sole give this pair just the perfect amount of contrast detailing.

The Synchron Classic is known for its unorthodox lacing system in the toebox, designed to keep the toebox secure after heavy usage, providing a better fitting upper, with extra comfort and durability.

Also featuring a compression moulded EVA insole like the previous models, the Synchron Classic sports a premium pigskin upper, and synthetic overlays.

Karhu began crafting athletic footwear for professional athletes all over the world, and still continues to support runners and athletes of all skill levels.

From being on the feet of Olympic champions, to the fashionistas of the city sidewalks, Karhu has managed to organically branch out to different aspects of contemporary fashion purely by sticking true to their tried-and-true ethos. 

Well designed pieces will last forever, and something done well from the beginning will find itself as a staple in the cultural catalogue.

To check out the full Karhu Collection, click here