TAFT, a New York-based brand born from a “mutual love for uniquely designed and well-made products,” is making waves this summer with its sleek new Rapido collection. Known for its meticulous work and intentional designs, TAFT consistently delivers footwear that captures a “distinct point of view” and breaks traditional style barriers. To delve deeper into this exciting new collection, we sat down with Tyler Larsen, Head of Product at TAFT.
The Rapido collection seamlessly blends the worlds of streetwear and luxury, a core element of TAFT’s design ethos. “The goal with our Rapido sneaker collection was to fuse the bold, luxurious TAFT DNA into a wearable sneaker silhouette,” explains Larsen. “Sneakers are a streetwear staple, so we knew how important it was to give our customers a shoe that connects with their own personal street style.”
One of the most striking features of the Rapido sneakers is the bold, floral jacquard fabric. This unexpected choice on a casual silhouette immediately sets it apart from typical summer footwear. “The Floral ‘Eden’ jacquard has been a signature material used across the TAFT line for many years,” Larsen elaborates. “Wearing TAFT has always been about bold self-expression, and we think your sneakers rotation deserves a fresh new look to help you stand out from the crowd.” This bold aesthetic challenges conventional summer styles, encouraging a more expressive approach to casual wear.
TAFT’s commitment to quality is evident in its production process. Unlike mass-produced footwear, the Rapido sneakers are crafted in small batches by skilled artisans in Italy and Spain. “Unlike mass-produced footwear, our shoes are hand crafted by skilled artisans at every step of the production process,” Larsen emphasizes. “These small, family run factories are the key to our superior craftsmanship and attention to detail,” ensuring that each pair delivers both innovative style and exceptional quality.
The Rapido collection is designed for versatility, a key aspect of modern dressing. It’s a sneaker that’s “stylish enough to dress up, casual enough to wear daily.” This adaptability is central to TAFT’s vision for its customers’ summer style. “We know our customers gravitate towards sneakers during the summer months for their added comfort and versatility,” says Larsen. “We wanted to give our customers a sneaker that can be worn with any outfit and still helps them feel like they’re dressed correctly for the occasion.” This versatility empowers customers to elevate their summer looks effortlessly, aligning with TAFT’s aim to spark conversation through distinctive design.
Here are some standout pieces from the Rapido collection, embodying TAFT’s dedication to quality, style, and design:
The Rapidolow Low-Top Sneaker: Crafted in Italy, this stylish and casual option is available in genuine leather, suede, or the signature jacquard floral fabric. With a classic round-toe design and lace-up closure, it offers a contemporary twist on a timeless silhouette. UPPER: Genuine Leather / CLOSURE: Lace-Up / TOE STYLE: Round-Toe / OUTSOLE: Rubber Standard D Width / Handmade by Artisans in Italy.
Rapido Men’s Low Sneaker in Eden Noir: This luxury men’s sneaker pays homage to modern craftsmanship and 80s-inspired aesthetics. Featuring TAFT’s custom Eden Noir fabric with Spanish Calfskin Leather, it boasts a fully leather lining and a custom rubber outsole from Italy. A custom “TAFT” embroidery adorns the heel. Vintage 80s-inspired low sneaker silhouette / UPPER: TAFT’s custom Eden Noir fabric designed with Spanish Calfskin Leather / CLOSURE: Lace-Up / LINING: Fully leather-lined / OUTSOLE: Custom rubber outsole crafted in Italy / Custom “TAFT” embroidery on the heel.
- Rapido High-Top Sneaker: This vintage 80s-inspired high-top silhouette combines TAFT’s signature Eden cotton jacquard with Spanish Calfskin. Built to the same quality standards as TAFT’s renowned boots and shoes, it features a custom rubber outsole from Italy, a full leather lining, custom “TAFT” embroidery on the heel, and the founder’s signature embroidered on the ankle strap. Vintage 80’s-inspired high-top sneaker silhouette / UPPER: TAFT’s signature Eden cotton jacquard combined with Spanish Calfskin / OUTSOLE: Custom rubber outsole from Italy / Fully leather lined and made to the same quality standard1s and specifications as our boots and shoes / Custom “TAFT” embroidery on the heel / Our founder’s signature embroidered on the ankle strap.
- Rapido Men’s Low Sneaker in Eden: Another nod to modern craftsmanship, this luxury low sneaker showcases TAFT’s signature Eden material combined with Spanish Calfskin. It features a low silhouette inspired by the iconic styles of the 80s, a full leather lining, and a custom rubber outsole from Italy, finished with a custom “TAFT” embroidery on the heel. Vintage 80s-inspired low sneaker silhouette / TAFT’s signature Eden material combined with Spanish Calfskin / Fully leather-lined / Custom rubber outsole from Italy / Custom “TAFT” embroidery on the heel.
With the Rapido collection, TAFT continues to solidify its position as a brand that seamlessly merges innovative design with exceptional craftsmanship, offering footwear that empowers individuals to make a statement with every step they take this summer.
Check out TAFT in action below.