Fronteer first caught our attention a little over a year ago at some fashion trade show here in NYC. Among the many brands, the New York-based footwear startup stood out with bright and bold colorways popping off designs that felt both contemporary yet distinctly vintage. It’s an odd mix. One that’s displayed quite readily in the latest update to the slowly evolving line.
Here we see their original design (Super Gratton Lo) updated with a 2.0 silhouette that’s more sneaker-like in its fit, and a bit more approachable in its colorways. As New Yorkers ourselves, we’re all but allergic to wearing bright colors. So the “Sand Dune” lowtop would certainly be our pick for entry-level brand adoption. That said, for some reason, the “Blueway” is calling our name too. Either way, the sleek sneaker is a great way to remind everyone around you that yes, you do climb, whether in the city or not.
The Aqua Solo is certainly a bit more out there, design-wise. The chunky design—inspired by hiking and deep water soloing—feels right out of an early 90s Nike ACG catalog. While it may not be very approachable, those willing to go all in will be rewarded with some serious adventure capability (shout out the Vibram outsole, molded suede sockliner, and velcro straps).
Each unisex design is made in limited numbers—350 and 320, respectively—so don’t sleep on these. Or just be boring and buy another pair of white Chucks. We won’t hold it against you.
