(May 8) – Pantofola d’Oro is a name that any European sports enthusiast knows well. The brand, founded in Ascoli Piceno in 1886, has served the world’s greatest athletes and champions for decades, especially the most prominent name in soccer. And this month, the brand makes its way to US soil for the first time ever. There will be a limited production of shoes made available to select retailers and online. Every Pantofola d’Oro shoe is still hand made, following the tradition put in place by the Lazzarini family, who started the company. The calfskin leather that was first utilized in the 1940s for soccer players, wrestlers, boxers and cyclists is still utilized in select styles offering unparalleled comfort. Unlike many mass-produced brands, Pantofola d’Oro focuses on extremely limited production with unique combinations of materials, colors and designs. This also allows for special make up (SMU) or “one-off” shoes to be designed for celebrity ambassadors and retail partners alike. US celebrities were introduced to Pantofola d’Oro earlier this year at gifting suites and red carpet events. Not only was the strategy successful, but the stars’ passion for the shoes resulted in some A-List celebrities asking to become investors in the company. The list of celebs who are wearing Pantofola d’Oro shoes includes Adam Levine of Maroon 5, David Hasselhoff, Zac Efron, Estelle, Lil’ Jon, Ryan Braun and scores of others. Marco Massini, (Pantofola d’Oro partner), explained, “We are a premium brand. We’ve always held ourselves to a higher standard and we are immensely proud of our Italian craftsmanship. Embracing our old world heritage, we are bringing a new soul to the American market. We offer products that are uniquely designed and overwhelmingly appealing to the sophisticated consumer.” (Red)
