In commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the iconic Timberland boot, the brand introduces Future73, a design initiative featuring six visionary “future-makers” tasked with reimagining the boot for the evolving world. The diverse group of designers includes Samuel Ross of A Cold Wall, long-time Timberland collaborator Christopher Raeburn, Clot founder/designer Edison Chen, Knit In Motion innovator Suzanne Oude Hengel, artist Nina Chanel Abney, and designer Humberto Leon, representing the UK, North America, Hong Kong, and mainland Europe.
The designers have approached the task by creating new interpretations of the Premium 6-Inch Boot, infusing Timberland’s legacy with their innovative perspectives. The capsule collections, accompanied by complementary apparel pieces, are set to be released between March and October. Timberland emphasizes that these collaborations provide a glimpse into the past, modernizing the icon for the future. Working closely with the Timberland design team, the future-makers incorporated new knit technologies, exaggerated features like super-chunky rubber soles, and inspiring artwork on the boot as a canvas. Notably, this project produced the first-ever version of the boot designed for disassembly through Timberland’s Timberloop circularity platform.
The launches will occur in seven phases starting next month and will be available at major fashion and streetwear retailers, Timberland flagships, and the brand’s webstore. Each drop will have its unique launch moment, accompanied by creative sessions where the future-makers share their vision. This engaging process will be supported by a robust digital and social media campaign, including photography and video interviews, to connect with consumers worldwide.
Drieke Leenknegt, Chief Marketing Officer for Timberland, emphasizes the collaboration’s significance, stating that each future-maker has transformed the Premium 6-Inch Boot through their bold innovation and design ethos. Timberland also announces the release of the Hip Hop Royalty Boot, paying homage to the boot’s adoption by hip-hop culture in the 1990s.
In addition to the designer collaborations, Timberland plans to host youth design workshops in key cities, inviting consumers to customize and personalize their boots in both digital and physical spaces. The celebration extends with a 30-minute documentary film chronicling the original Timberland Boot’s pivotal moments and two special 50th Anniversary Boot collections, culminating in October with celebrations and film screenings in cities central to the Timberland story.
