Shoes that are made for walking

Trusted for more than five decades for helping keep the feet happy and healthy, Danish footwear brand Ecco recently launched its new spring and summer collection with a strong nod to its philosophy, “We are shoemakers”.

Established in 1963 by Karl Toolsby, who believed that “form should follow function” and was determined to make comfortable shoes for an active lifestyle. Ecco has long been a favourite with Thai customers as well as a major employer in the Kingdom –Ecco Leather Group’s manufacturing base is located in Ayutthaya province. 
The launch was held at Ecco’s new lifestyle store at CentralWorld and was joined by Thomas Meng, regional director for Asia Pacific, who stressed the high quality of Ecco shoemaking, explaining that each pair is skilfully crafted with attention to detail.
The comfort derives, he added, from the brand’s biomechanical optimisation and natural motion (BIOM) and Ecco Shape technologies. The first allows the feet and lower leg to strengthen with each step and for the foot to activate its own natural systems for shock absorption and motion, while the latter lets the foot sit lower inside the base of the heel providing all day comfort while maintaining an elegant silhouette.
Singer Boy Peacemaker, a big fan of Ecco, performed a mini-concert, while Jongkol Palalit, Vogue fashion editor, gave some tips how to mix and match the new collection for the most stylish look.
The highlight of the new season is the Crepetray collection, about which retail director Dharik Kaweewong, enthused, explaining its rich features that include a pebbled full-grain leather chukka boot with vintage-crafted detailing inspired by traditional South African Khoisan Veldskoen walking shoe. 
“The boot has a lightweight sole made with a distinctive crepe-like rubber and a midsole that uses our innovative Fluidform Dip technological injection of PU. This gives a reliable and durable union between the upper and the sole unit, offering a finely tuned balance of cushioning and rebound. 
The removable leather-covered inlay sole helps increase air circulation so it’s suitable for our hot climate. This outstanding flexibility is perfect for all-day comfort,” she said.
Also available now in Thailand is the Vitrus range of classic shoes for men and the Scandinavian minimal yet sporty Gilian for the ladies. They come in pastel pink, beige, green and basic black and white.
Ecco has expanded to include an accessory line and showcased its new collection of bags at the event. All made from soft leather that’s smooth to the touch, the bags boast a timeless and simplistic design and come complete with inside zip pocket, slip-in pocket and key ring strap. A handle, leather shoulder strap for crossbody wear and shiny hardware add to the bag’s sophistication.