Keds’ signature Champion sneaker model is getting a modern and inclusive update.
According to the footwear brand, it has updated its archival style from the 1960s to offer a more inclusive fit with an extended size range. Called the “Keds Champion Gender Neutral,” the sneaker features the brand’s recognizable CVO upper, an updated textured midsole, and gender-neutral last shape. This new iteration of the Keds Champion is offered in sizes 5 through 14.5 in medium and wide widths.
“For over 100 years Keds has continued to innovate and evolve to meet the needs of our customers,” Janice Kwan, vice president of product at Keds, said in a statement. “As we look to expand and scale our fit and size offerings, it was natural to start with one of our most beloved icons—the Keds Champion. We are excited to introduce this new iteration of the Keds Champion that combines the very best of our archives with clean, modern elements.”
To launch the shoe, Keds tapped photographer Jacob Consenstein and production house Family Projects on a new campaign. The spot features three New York-based artists in a “day in the life” style vignette. Highlighted in the campaign are Kalen, a textile designer and founder of brand Upstate; Mimi, a community muralist and portrait painter; and John, a guitarist and singer-songwriter.
“Much of my work has been documentary forward, featuring artists of all kinds and highlighting the creative community,” added Consenstein. “It’s been a goal of mine to find a synergistic opportunity to mesh that work with a commercial project. I often find that the best campaigns showcase talented creatives in ways that highlight their work, essence, and individualistic beauty.”
The Keds Champion Gender Neutral is now available on Keds.com and with select retailers.
This new launch comes nearly a year after Keds unveiled a brand refresh, including a new logo and reimagined product assortment. At the time, the footwear label hinted at expanding its offering like the new gender neutral silhouette.
“We’re incredibly proud of being the first to create a sneaker specifically for women,” Nicole Underwood, director of brand, collaborations and energy at Keds, told FN at the time. “That’s kind of central to a lot of our brand identity. We want to be at the forefront of these ideas and we recognized that we needed to open it up a little bit. We know that you don’t have to be female in order to be feminine and we truly believe that everyone belongs and we want to create a space for everyone.”
In February 2023, Designer Brands Inc. (DBI) acquired the Keds label from Wolverine Worldwide. As part of the deal, the DSW-parent company took over all Keds products, including the Pro-Keds sneaker line, and the brand’s e-commerce business.
