From the union between Birkenstock and UNION comes the Bimshire

A clog that pays homage to youth culture and the communities that animate it.

Los Angeles-based men’s fashion retailer UNION has joined forces with the renowned footwear company founded by Johann Adam Birkenstock to create a hybrid clog that blends the codes of Boston and Zurich styles. Made from natural leather that wraps the upper layer of its structure, the Bimshire features classic Birkenstock buckles made with a specialised textile-touch treatment.

They also feature an anatomical footbed covered in orange-dyed leather and a canvas panel trimmed and finished with a classic suede round toe. They come in desert shades of grey, taupe and sandy pink, and feature a special inscription of the name of the island of Barbados as a tribute to Chris Gibbs‘ (owner of Union LA) roots.

Gibbs, who felt like an outcast in a predominantly white city, began experimenting with style in unorthodox ways, drawing inspiration from both his Canadian and West Indian heritage. After his stint in high school and the New York club scene in the 1990s, he incorporates his ‘Birks’ into any look, faithfully proclaiming them his ‘wardrobe staple’ to this day.

The Bimshire clog by Birkenstock in collaboration with Union LA will be launched worldwide today, November 7, via 1774.com, in Birkenstock stores and at selected retailers.