Karhu
Karhu is the hidden gem of the sneaker world, a brand with an incredible heritage that has combined performance and style for over a century. Founded in 1916 in Finland, Karhu (which means "bear" in Finnish) began manufacturing sports equipment before focusing on running shoes. While today, Karhu is a niche brand embraced by streetwear connoisseurs, it boasts an impressive history in the world of sports.
Sport, Karhu's DNA
Karhu began by producing shoes and equipment for Finnish athletes. In the 1920s, the brand supplied running shoes to Finnish long-distance runners who won several Olympic medals. Among them, the legendary Paavo Nurmi, nicknamed "the man who flew," ran and won in Karhu shoes. It was these moments of glory that cemented Karhu as a sporting legend.
But Karhu didn't stop there. In the 1950s, they sold their patent for the three stripes to a small, fledgling German brand, Adidas. Yes, you read that right: Adidas's famous three stripes were originally Karhu's invention, which he sold for a modest sum.
Karhu and street culture
While Karhu has never sought to compete with the streetwear giants, the brand has captured the attention of sneakerheads with its vintage designs, bold colorways, and authenticity. Karhu is the choice of connoisseurs, those who prefer artisanal quality and a rich history over following fleeting trends.
On the streets, the Karhu stands out for its minimalism and comfort. Collaborations, particularly with cutting-edge boutiques like Patta and Sneakersnstuff (SNS), have also allowed the brand to make its mark in urban culture, attracting those who want to wear a sneaker with character and rarity.
The renaissance in the 2010s
In the 2010s, Karhu made a strong comeback in the sneaker world, thanks in part to the craze for retro running silhouettes. With the rise of the "dad shoe" trend and old-school sneakers, Karhu found its moment. Models like the Fusion 2.0 and the Aria, with their colorways evoking Nordic landscapes, have become must-haves for those looking for shoes that combine style and history.