Description:

Hip hop dance is fast-paced, energetic and requires high levels of athleticism. Certain moves can be very aerobatic and be quite dangerous. It is practised on the street where it is primarily improvisational as well as in a studio setting which is usually choreographed; both are danced individually and in crews. Hip Hop culture started in the 70s and 80s by oppressed minority groups in America as a method of self-expression and activism. Despite developing for over 50 years to become what it is today, there are no specialised shoes for supporting and protecting a Hip Hop dancer’s feet and ankles.
Split sole dance sneakers are advertised for Hip Hop dance, but they are not specifically designed for it, they were introduced by classical dance’s syllabus style in response to Hip-Hop’s popularity. However, a two-part sole does provide benefits that are an asset to a Hip Hop dancer – increased arch flexibility and better foot control, so Soul Flex is a redesign of the split-sole dance sneaker targeted to Hip Hop dancers.

Soul Flex takes the two-part sole and combines it with features common in modern basketball sneakers. Basketball and Hip Hop share the same multidirectional movement, so the iconic herringbone tread is extended along the sides and toe to accommodate the broad range of ways that the foot connects with the ground. There is a turning platform on the ball of the foot made from a harder rubber with a lighter tread to reduce friction and allow for ease of turning. The upper is made from wool, which is natural and breathable. The split in the soul accommodates an external strapping and lacing system which allows for custom ankle and arch support, as well as allowing dancers to customise the fit of the shoe without insoles.

Hip Hop fashion is about standing out, being confident and showing the world who you are. It allows people to express themselves and feel empowered. Soul Flex’s aesthetic is inspired by the bold colours and energetic silhouettes used in basketball sneaker form language. They developed as a part of Hip Hop fashion, so are strongly linked to the culture. The longevity of the Soul Flex lies in its versatility. The customisable lacing and strapping system allow them to be changed through trends and maintain relevance, and also grow with the dancer’s taste. It also creates another layer of expression – the dancer can customise their pair not only to express themselves, but also to suit a range of different performances – like a crew where everyone must match, or to fit the aesthetic of a particular costume or character. Soul Flex aims to connect with the dancer and become an extension of their self or the character that they seek to convey. By supporting dancers physically and emotionally, Soul Flex inspires a more intimate relationship between dancer and shoe, increasing dancer’s confidence and making the shoes less likely to be replaced prematurely due to trends.