An icon, reborn. Building on decades of love from runners and sneaker fans alike, the Jazz franchise celebrates 40 years looking and feeling finer than ever. Introducing the Jazz ’81 – honoring the original’s look and feel with a few upgrades to ensure future gens covet this style the same way we have.
This April, KARHU is once again putting the Finnish mascot, the legendary sports bear, centre stage with the Mascot Pack 2. This carefully curated collection is a celebration of KARHU’s very own bear, the symbol that adorns each of our shoes and by which we are known in the world of sport and fashion.
Originally considered an object of good fortune, the mascot concept dates all the way back to the early 1800s. Sports organizations popularized the mascot by first using live animals as entertainment for spectators and intimidation for rivals. Over time, mascots evolved into larger-than-life caricatures whose job it was to excite fans and motivate athletes.
While researching a modern-day face for the Mascot Pack, the KARHU design team was inspired by several illustrations from our archives—specifically the 1960s Trampas Bear and a 1980s comic strip that introduced Kris the Karhu Bear. For our latest drop, we continue the story of Kris the Karhu Bear as he auditions to become KARHU’s newest mascot.
Trekking-shoe inspiration, reworked with urban style: this new version of the Kotetsu Hooks is a city-ready sneaker that's trendy to the core. In a blend of vibrant shades, the upper is made from technical mesh and contrasting suede. Visually, the one-pull lace fastening and metal eyelets are a nod to sportswear. Anatomic and antibacterial cork insole, ultra-light rubber sole with moulded sides and indented tread.