Union Ware : Naval Trainers Shoes

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Photographer : Krittin Tachasiritanakul
Asst Photo : @__jira @gokgak_gakgok
Stylist : P'Tae
Model : @akarinxxylem

The Pronto Union Ware Collection 2 sneakers come with a hint of Military nostalgia from the 40s-50s era when the world was still far from experiencing peace due to wartime conditions. We drew inspiration from the ordinary, brave individuals who served their nation, voluntarily joining the Navy before heading to the battlefield. They would undergo training and receive military-issue equipment, including Canvas Trainers, the prototype for our shoes. These shoes had to be sturdy, durable, and suitable for rigorous training, providing excellent traction on all surfaces, be it land, sand, or water, which was common for naval personnel.

For the details of the Pronto Union Ware: Naval Trainers, the upper material is made from Herringbone Twill, woven from 100% cotton, known for its strength. Some of the fabric is sourced from textile factories in Ibara, Okayama, Japan, reflecting the military colors of Olive, Khaki, Natural, Black, and Indigo, making it easy to match with military-style outfits. Each pair also features natural herringbone fabric lining and small military-style Stencil prints to indicate the shoe's size and material.

We chose a shoe last with a wide toe area to suit the Thai foot shape for comfortable wear while maintaining a sleek appearance. The toe bumper design is inspired by Russian military training shoes from the 50s, known for their thickness and durability. We've recreated the mold to maintain the originality, adding shadow to enhance its beauty and facilitate easy cleaning. The shoe's sole is designed for grip and features the Pronto Union Ware logo in military signal orange, achieved through vulcanized rubber, ensuring durability, flexibility, and excellent traction on all surfaces, allowing you to engage in various activities.

The sole is stitched to maintain its shape, and the heel stripe, made from specially woven and reinforced fabric, adds durability. Inside, there is a foam insole to absorb shock and enhance comfort. The side of the shoe has air vents, and the lace holes are reinforced with silver and gold-colored metal eyelets, accompanied by flat, 5mm-wide laces made of retro-style woven thread. The shoes come in a military-style box with a drawstring fabric bag for storage.

These shoes are available in both Hi Top and Low Cut styles, and you can choose from five military-inspired colors: Natural, Olive, Khaki, Black, and Indigo. They will age gracefully with time and wear.