An absolute leaf-stomper.
Nope, we’re not really sure how it happened either. How Caterpillar, the world’s largest construction equipment manufacturer, known for decades for churning out diggers, turbines and engines, suddenly became a huge vibe in fashion. But, like Dickies, Berghaus and Deliveroo jackets, it happened, and by god are we all the richer (excluding our actual account balance) for it.
For AW21, CAT are unleashing the ‘Reactor’ sneaker, part of their new ‘RePowered’ collection. They’re deliciously chunky, overbuilt with features that make your old pair of FILA Disruptors look like kids’ shoes.
The shoe’s eyestay – the bit where your laces are threaded – is protected by an industrial-style ‘cage’, attached to alternate eyelets for a machine-like zig-zag effect. The sole, meanwhile, is rubberised to the max, featuring the iconic yellow CAT logo stamped on the bottom, while uppers are laced with leather and mesh.
It’s inspired by the Caterpillar tractor, which we see in terms of the protective details; but it’s less rural and more brutalist, made for stomping leaves to chlorophyllic smithereens and crunching through fallen branches on sprawling autumn walks. Four colourways are on offer: Star White, Black, Pavement and – our personal favourite – Birch and Bright White, all available in unisex sizing from 2-12.
We’ve also been given a sneak peak at the full pack of colourways for the new Intruder Galoush – part of the same RePowered collection – and we’re properly digging them too. It’s these kinds of trend-driven, sturdy designs that are causing CAT to continue to gain serious traction, showcasing the potential of construction-fashion crossovers. You’d better pounce on these Reactors real quick, though: they’re not going to stick around for tea.
The new CAT Reactor is available now here, with more colourways coming ASAP.
