Retail: Red Wing Shoes Amsterdam

Red Wing Shoes opened its first official store in the Netherlands on July 22nd. Together with denim boutique Tenue de Nîmes the American brand set up shop in the distinctive Reestraat, carrying a substantial assortment of Red Wing shoes as well as various accessories.

The Red Wing store in the “9 streets” area pays tribute to the rich history of the brand, which was launched in 1905 by Charles Beckman, having spotted a growing demand for sturdy work boots. The shoes are displayed on top of steel and antique glass show cases, which are filled with coal. The dark, concrete walls have been decorated with workman’s tools that date back to the days when Red Wing was a fledgling company. One wooden wall, which itself was made from materials from an old Amish water tower, is used to exhibit most of the accessories on offer. Everything between these walls reminds you of the history of Red Wing, but in a contemporary setting. The store’s design is the result of a collaboration between a number of exceptional designers: Joachim Baan, Pim van Lingen, Kenneth Jaworski, Roeland interieurbouw and the gentlemen from Tenue de Nîmes.

The Red Wing store’s collection will consist of a wide range of Red Wing shoes, shoe maintenance items, belts, gloves, as well as other accessories. Some of the brands that represent this part of the overall assortment include American Optical, Duluth Pack, Heritage Leather Company, Royal Republiq, Tanner Goods and The Hill-Side. Aside from all the beautiful leather goods, the store also provides shoe maintenance itself, a service for the true shoe fanatic: next to the entrance is a special chair, reserved for customers looking for a special treatment for his or her shoes.