Canada-based heritage boot maker Viberg just released some shocking hybrid sneakers. The styles feature boot uppers merged with sneaker midsoles and outsoles. While the sneaker-boot mashup is not new in the footwear world — Cole Haan reinvented itself by merging the comfort of sneakers with traditional styles — the offerings from Viberg are the first options produced by a brand still revered in the heritage space.
The Chelsea Sneaker has a wholecut Italian suede upper with gray elastic side panels and a leather lining. It features a Vibram Fuga sole and a foam footbed for comfort. The more avant-garde style, the Side Zip Sneaker, has a washed Italian horsehide upper with a nickel zipper and leather lining. It utilizes an eye-catching Vibram Plump sole and has a foam footbed for comfort.
Both styles are made in Viberg’s Victoria factory with cemented construction. Starting at $470, they’re not inexpensive, but they do manage to successfully merge the comfort of a sneaker with the profile of a traditional boot. In terms of boot-sneaker hybrids, these are some of the best available.
