The enthusiasm for sneaker culture is sweeping across the globe. This enthusiasm is mirrored in larger countries like the United States and smaller ones like Japan. In fact, even countries like India are experiencing a blooming interest in this trend, with a growing number of people embracing sneaker culture. Naturally, this has led to a blossoming of custom and concept designs that draw their inspiration from various cultures and traditions. As such, the world is brought to our feet, literally, through designs such as the Air Jordan 1 x Thimphu from the creative mind of Abhishek Choudhury.
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Behind the Design of the Air Jordan 1 x Thimphu Sneakers
India-based designer Abhishek Choudhury has a knack for turning his travel adventures into beautiful sneaker designs that reflect the unique cultures and traditions of the places he visits. Not only do you get a fantastic sneaker design using one of the most loved sneaker silhouettes, the Air Jordan 1, but you get a fascinating story that goes with it.
Take, for instance, his design of the Air Jordan 1 x Thimphu, which speaks volumes about his expedition to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city. This design is inspired by the traditional Bhutanese men’s footwear called tshoglham. Generally, these vibrant, knee-length boots make an appearance during festivals and ceremonial events. The detailing of their stitched patterns and the brightness of their hues underpin the wearer’s social standing. Typically, these boots consist of three layers. The base of the boot features white fabric, followed by the middle portion, which showcases embroidered designs. At the top, silk brocade or wool is used, with designs meticulously sewn onto it.
Design Elements
In his unique design, Choudhury has woven an array of these motifs into the colourful palette and intricate detailing of the Air Jordan 1 x Thimphu. The sneaker’s base is cloaked in clean white fabric, echoing the lower part of Bhutan’s traditional footwear. Complementing this, the eye stays, and heel overlays boast a vivid red, while a dash of deep green graces the ankle flap.
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Naturally, Choudhury has also infused his design with elaborate patterns, present on features such as the toe cap, tongue, collar, and heel counter overlays. Even the iconic profile Swooshes get a fresh interpretation with pattern detail.
The key subjects of these complex designs include traditional dragon images, charming floral designs, and fluffy cloud illustrations, all representing diverse aspects of Bhutan’s vibrant culture and symbolism. An interesting tidbit for you: the dragon, also called “The Druk”, is a national emblem of Bhutan and is accentuated in the nation’s flag and other cultural objects.
Adding the final flourish to the shoe’s appearance is a lively orange midsole paired with a rubber outsole of the same shade. This sole unit complements the vivid colour scheme and completes this visually captivating design. The final creation is no less than an art piece, a stylish sneaker that beautifully honours Bhutan’s rich customs and traditions.
Is it Possible to Own a Pair of Air Jordan 1 x Thimphu?
For now, these designs seem to exist purely in concept form. However, that does not mean they will always stay that way. If you want to own a pair of these Air Jordan 1 x Thimphu sneakers, don’t hesitate to let your interest be known through the comments section or even slide into the DMs of the designer. Your feedback and interest could help bring these unique sneakers to life for purchase in the future.
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Do you enjoy exploring different cultures through sneaker designs like the Air Jordan 1 x Thimphu?
