A Nordic sneakers brand is making a case for minimalist streetwear footwear.
Designers and entrepreneurs Kasper Høj Rasmussen and Thomas Refdahl founded ARKK Copenhagen in October 2014 to pay homage to the minimalistic Nordic design philosophy of simplicity, quality, and focus on functional details. Hence, each pair features clean silhouettes and subtle color treatments in neutral hues, such as white, black, gray, olive green, and navy blue. No exaggerated stitching, imposing labels, and unnecessary accoutrements.
The unique appeal of ARKK shoes captured the attention of Gruppo > Innovare, the local group that brings the Nordic brand to the Philippine shores.
In an interview with MS Young Life, deputy sales director Miguel Abellada said they contacted the principal in Denmark when a friend introduced the brand to them.
“We felt it has potential given that there are people who are not too fond of mainstream brands or don’t want to wear the same pair of sneakers like everyone else,” explained Abellada. “ARKK would bring in some sort of feeling of exclusivity.”
The principal then visited the country last year in November to size up the market which he said was “not too far behind when it comes to sneakers” and would be ready to be the 37th destination of ARKK Copenhagen.
All ARKK Copenhagen sneakers are designed in Denmark and are made of high quality uppers, laces, detailing, and custom-made outsoles (S-E15, H-X1)—resulting in ultra-luxe minimalist sneakers that are fashionable for the streets and beyond.
Gruppo Innovare brings ARKK’s Eaglezero S-E15, Lion FG H-X1, Panther H-X1, Pythron S-E15, Scorpitex S-E15, Spyqon FG H-X1, and the Raven line (Nubuck S-E15, FutureGrid 2.0 S-E15, Mesh S-E15).
Despite tough competition, Abellada is confident ARKK will fare well against more popular sneakers labels. He said, “The products are very good and the design is very minimal so it’s flexible.”
He also cited the lenient dress code policy in many industries today which helps expand the already big local sneakers market. “More companies are now more permissive when it comes to their clothing rules, and there are more young and old wearing sneakers.”
ARKK Copenhagen sneakers range from P4,995 to P8,495. They will be sold at The Nines, Sneak Peek, and online at Zeus.ph.