The world of sneakers is one that I’m not comfortable with. There are so many different options, so many different styles that shopping can be overwhelming. I’ve gotten quite a few questions via AMA or DMs looking for advice on which sneakers to buy. I’ve done the research: I looked for a minimalist style with a smaller toe box, options that are not all white (still not there with that look), and are a good investment (read: not cheap). After some trial and error, I am happy with what I’ve found in Rubirosa.
I was introduced to Rubirosa at Miller Brothers, which carries a few of their styles. What I like most about them is their low-profile design and their excellent build quality. I initially bought a darker pair of Joan running shoes and quickly added a pair of EVAs. They feature a leather lining and footbed, which makes them extremely comfortable. I started incorporating them into outfits as I normally would and have been happy.
I like the style! It’s a different look for me, but I’ve grown to embrace it. I don’t wear them every day, but they have a place in my wardrobe.
I reached out to Flavio Agosti of Rubirosa to better understand the brand:
What is the history of Rubirosa? RUBIROSA shoes are timeless and modern, the epitome of subtle luxury, handmade in Italy. RUBIROSA champions fine leather footwear. The Swiss brand was founded in 2015 by a group of friends to bring old-fashioned elegance back to contemporary style. RUBIROSA footwear combines the grace of classic shoes with the comfort of sneakers. Our styles honour comfort, quiet luxury, and personality. The name RUBIROSA pays homage to the charm of the great Porfirio “Rubi” Rubirosa, star of the 1950s-60s jet-set and a legendary adventurer. Crafted and refined, considerate of nature, every stylish pair can be joyfully worn every day, everywhere. For business. For casual. For good times. RUBIROSA shoes elevate leisure and fit like a glove.
What makes your footwear different? RUBIROSA empowers individuals to step confidently into any situation with poise and elegance. The stylish, comfortable shoes enable wearers to easily navigate their daily adventures. The designs’ sleek silhouettes, refined craftsmanship, and modern sophistication subtly evoke ideals of action and confidence. RUBIROSA embodies graceful living and asserts the concept of mastery. Capable, never panicked, of obvious good taste, wearing RUBIROSA shoes you are always in control.
What kind of person is a Rubirosa customer? RUBIROSA approaches life with a sense of enjoyment and joie-de-vivre. The superior quality of the products encourages wearers to luxuriate in wearing beautifully crafted shoes. Feeling confident and stylish, they meet every challenge with a light heart and good humour. RUBIROSA clients savour the beauty and joy in the every day, and are inclined to poke fun at pomposity and outdated rules.
What are your favorite styles? We love all of them, each style has its own character and qualities.
Socks or no socks? All our shoes are made for no socks.
What do you like to do outside of Rubirosa? Enjoying life, good food, good company, the joy of sport and traveling.
What is on your Spotify playlist? To be honest, I don’t have a Spotify list.
I’ve added a couple of other pairs since, which will start to get some play this Spring and Summer. First up: these JUDYs:
Second, these JOANs:
You can see the whole collection on Rubirosa’s website.
I don’t know man – these look nice, but a little off – like they are obviously better materials – but are they that much nicer than a higher end offering from Adidas (Handball Spezia), Nike or Vans? Even considering Common Projects or Maison Margiela these look okay, but more like a North Korean copy of New Balance or Blazers?
When it comes to the world of sneakers – there are so many available to stand out you have to look at what End is selling for Adidas and Nike well before you can get it at the outdoor mall down the street. I stand by (and in) the Handball Spezial and Samba – the new Gazelle fits very strange.
The fashion tennis shoes (“sneaker”) trend just isn’t for me. Sure, I’ll drop $400 on full leather dress shoes, many of which have been with me for 10+ years, but I can’t imagine spending $400 on a tennis shoe with a finite lifespan unless I’m a professional athlete. Tretorns and Sambas continue to serve me well.
No Spotify playlist? So dude doesn’t listen to Panic? Sorry I don’t trust a company that has been around for 10 years. These shoes look like something you can pick up at Shoe Rack or Carnival Shoes B1G1F.
Tell these guys they need to pair up with Blue Delta or maybe it’s Delta Blue. It’s the $800 5 pockets Lane Kifun wears. Maybe get Peter Thiel in for an orgy .
Bunch of On wannabes
I don’t think these can really make a compelling argument against a pair of grey New Balances.
Look! There’s a shark below you!
HARD pass
What I don’t need is a nike dunk and adidas gazelle combined into one shoe
Adi classics are all you need for the non sporting trainer game. The ones in Europe and the UK specifically.
$425 – GTFO!
The ODILE White CL02 men’s leather sneakers are literally stan smiths with 2 stripes – $425 for fake 2 stripe adidas? NO THANKS