Building upon the legendary Pras Standard Shellcap model, the collaboration between PRAS and the Japanese technical sock brand "My Loads Are Light" introduces a new era of Japanese craftsmanship. These sneakers retain the beloved bulbous shellcap toe box and 1950s-inspired non-slip soles, embodying the essence of exceptional quality that PRAS is known for.
However, what sets this collaboration apart is the innovative use of Cordura® 500 fabric, renowned for its remarkable durability and high resistance to abrasion. This material takes the iconic Shellcap Low to new heights, ensuring they endure the demands of contemporary urban life.
Continuing the time-honored tradition, the sneakers undergo the unique kiln-fired vulcanization process, an exclusive technique found only in Kurume, Japan. This method ensures a solid bond between the sole and upper, providing a shape that maintains its integrity, and a sole resistant to peeling.
The vulcanization process involves subjecting the sneakers to over 100 degrees Celsius of heat and pressure for about an hour, a labor-intensive and time-consuming practice that's both an art and a testament to quality. Only a handful of companies, including PRAS, continue to employ this method in Japan, maintaining a tradition rooted in wartime naval sneakers that offered enhanced traction on slippery ship decks.
With a history spanning almost 150 years, the Kurume factory remains committed to preserving the art of vulcanization and sharing its remarkable quality with the world. Each pair of these collaboration sneakers is a testament to the artistry and dedication that make them akin to artisan ceramics in the world of footwear.