Earlier this year we introduced York Athletics Mfg. with a wear test of their signature Henry low model sneaker. In the brand’s short history they’ve garnered a serious following in often overlooked athletic circles—mainly boxing and cross training, though the shoes perform in a wide range of circumstances too. York’s underdog approach clearly resonates with those looking to overcome their own battles and achieve a healthier lifestyle. It’s this “fighting spirit” that founder Mark McGarry feels drives the brand, and it’s core consumers. The lack of branding and overall ultra-clean designs certainly help too. And now, building on the success of their initial launch, York has released an attracitve update to the low and mid Henry silhouette for the Holidays. And we’ve got the exclusive look.
The update brings a few fresh colorways and the introduction of Dri-Freeze, an innovative textile constructed of cooling yarns that keep your foot’s temperature stable during training—essentially, the harder you work, the more the cooling material reacts, boosting breathability. The shoe’s super lightweight construction is already naturally breathable—this only improves that.
Of the updated colorways, we’re most drawn to the Fatigue Green and Shadow Black. Both, in mid and low style, are versatile, minimal, and assertive, without being overly aggressive. The Twilight Blue is pleasantly unexpected too.
As McGarry explained on a recent phone call, the brand understands their position in the footwear market, and embraces it—it’s the perfect brand for those who care about design, craftsmanship, and most of all performance, but are put off by the aggressiveness of the Swoosh and Three Stripes. And with the latest release, as well as a pop-up training center in Boston running 29 November through 4 December, that audience is likely to grow.
