The Finnish brand Karhu has a lot to offer! Although the brand has been around since 1916 and has been seriously producing running shoes for the free market since the 1952 Olympics at the latest, Karhu is mostly only known to sneakerheads today.
Before we get to the presentation and the fact check of all models, here is the overview of all Karhu models, their colourways and prices that are currently available.
ALBATROSS 82
Facts:
• Price-performance ratio: €90 - very good 👍
• Suitable for: Street / relaxed jogging / fitness
• Gender: Unisex
• Date of manufacture: 1982
• Materials: suede, mesh, synthetic logo, foam footbed + arched support
• Features: iconic air cushion sole
Sneakerjagers' recommendation:
A very simple, classic and comfortable sneaker. Perfect for the fashion-conscious man in his early 30s or for the relaxed city outfit of the woman. Can also be combined very well with casual and office wear. Top workmanship for a fair price.
ARIA 95
Facts:
• Price-performance ratio: €130 - good 👍
• Suitable for: Street / hiking / relaxed & fast jogging
• Gender: Unisex
• Date of creation: 1995
• Materials: Lycra monosock construction, Suede overlays, Water repellent nylon, Embroidered detail on toe box ,Laces,
• Special features: Reflective detail
Sneakerjagers' recommendation:
The Aria 95 is characterised by high-end running shoe technology, although it is also an outerwear highlight. Accordingly, it is not only at home on asphalt, but also off-road. The unique Monosock construction guarantees comfort and justifies the price of €130.
FUSION 2.0
Facts:
• Price-performance ratio: €140 - good 👍
• Suitable for: Street / hiking / relaxed & fast jogging / collecting
• Gender: Unisex
• Date of creation: 1996 (remaster from Fusion)
• Materials: suede overlays, mesh, laces, pull tab
• Special Features: Reflective detail
Sneakerjagers' recommendation:
The Fusion 2.0 is the most coveted Karhu sneaker among sneakerheads and often the template for collaborations. The pastel and earth tones of the colorways reflect the zeitgeist.
LEGACY 96
Facts:
• Price-performance ratio: €125 - very good 👍
• Suitable for: Street / hiking / relaxed & fast jogging / all-rounder
• Gender: Unisex
• Date of creation: 1996
• Materials: Leather overlays, Perforated suede toebox, Various types of mesh
• Special Features: Reflective detail, Speckled midsole, Air cushion, Embossed Finnsport logo on heel.
Sneakerjagers' recommendation:
With a lot of details and technology, the Legacy 96 is worth every penny. The silhouette and design is based on some of the first designs of Karhu sneakers. Accordingly, the model is truly a legacy.
Mestari
Facts:
• Price-performance ratio: €100 - very good 👍
• Suitable for: Street / Hiking / Relaxed jogging / Office
• Gender: Unisex
• Release Date: 1977
• Materials: Suede upper, foam footbed with stabilisation
• Special Features: Reflective logo, patented air cushion sole.
Sneakerjagers' recommendation:
When you look at the Karhu Mestari, you see parallels to models from other brands, such as the Nike Cortez or the New Balance 327. The Mestari, however, is older than both. From 1977 to 1984, it was sold over a million times. That makes it a legend.
Trampas
Facts:
• Price-performance ratio: €120 - good 👍
• Suitable for: Street / Fitness / Office
• Gender: Unisex
• Release date: mid - 1960
• Materials: suede upper, foam footbed with top leather layer
• Special Features: Suede logo, OG Trampas box design.
Sneakerjagers' recommendation:
The Karhu Trampas is an evergreen and the first shoe from the Finnish brand to hit the market. Thanks to its minimalist and clean appearance, it can also be combined with classy outfits. The retro vibes of the silhouette are currently very trendy.
Whether as office shoes, hiking shoes or simply as streetwear shoes, Karhu is versatile and convinces with design and quality. For upcoming releases, check out our Instagram page and the release calendar on our free Sneakerjagers app.