Billed as urban bike sneakers, the Shift line features bicycle-inspired design choices everywhere. From the stiffened midsole designed for better power transfer while pedaling to the chain-links grip pattern, these shoes are all about that two wheel life.  We especially liked the street art details on the interior and tongue featuring art by Burrito Breath. It’s these small details that elevate the Shift from normal sneaker to astute night-out choice. Add in the function of pedal-power features and what we have here is a winner.

Actual wear time has been comfortable and drama free for us here at The Factory. That chain-inspired tread grips like a mofo, and the rubber lip has already withstood some decent abuse from us while tooling in the workshop.  As far as saddle time, the chassis of the shoe does indeed feel stiffer and better engineered for pedaling than many of our other everyday shoes. DZR has really impressed us with the Shift, and we can’t wait to see what they come up with next. Function and style? Sign us up any day.

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Similarly to Utah weather, the Monty Hi is incredibly variable, and can be enjoyed in many different situations. My Grey/Teal Hi’s got inquisitive questions from a sneaker-connoisseur as I was strutting through the library in the morning, although he too wasn’t convinced they would hold up well in the snow when I told him they’re marketed as something of a sneaker-boot combo. We were both able to agree, however, that the shoe looked unique and would fit right in on his shelf next to his  newest Jordan’s. Later on, unbeknownst to me, it had begun to snow. Hard. When I finally got out of my evening Architectural Theory class, which ironically is held in a class with no windows, I was confronted with making my way to the other side of campus to catch the bus with nothing but snow in sight. To my surprise, I arrived home an hour later with my toes completely dry, thanks to the oiled suede and high grade nylon typically found only on seriously expensive hiking boots. Although I didn’t encounter too many slick surfaces, on the snow, I never slipped. This is thanks to the exposed EVA mid-sole with a heel stabilizer and the bespoke Ridgemont half cup outsole, making for sure footing regardless of if you’re boogyin’ at a club during Sundance, or trudging back to your ski cabin thereafter.

The structure of the shoe is quite rigid and feels like a boot, but definitely manages to pull off a modern, athletic silhouette successfully. The only criticisms I can offer are the limited color-way options, and the comment that the athletic silhouette does come with a tradeoff –  by no means is the boot exceptionally warm, so make sure to pair them with some thicker wool or thermal socks. All in all, if you’re looking a good-allrounder I can attest that the Monty Hi can get you from snow bank to date spot with no hesitation.

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During my commute to class, I felt quite comfortable and incredibly stable, even on a few more iced over inclines at the bus-stop. This level of versatility is nothing new from Ridgemont, yet is just as much of a pleasant surprise as the first time I came in contact with an Outfitters shoe: The Monty Hi. The Crest, in contrast, is significantly lighter, and although it offers comfortable ankle support, doesn’t quite match the level of the Monty – but then again, the Crest is a drastically lighter shoe that reminds more of the Southern California skate culture, and less so of the Colorado Rockies snow communities, the way the Monty does.

With Utah fitting right between the two, I took the liberty of introducing the Crests’ to some Utah habits to get a better understanding of their abilities: I stopped at home to drop by school backpack off, grabbed my board at the door, plugged my head into the newest Yeezy album, and went for a cruise. After blowing a few stop signs, sliding the board to a standstill to test the grip of the soles, and one or two emergency bails, I was sold this shoe could easily double as a quality skate shoe. As I boarded home and hopped on my motorcycle to study at the library, I continued to enjoy the Crest. It provided a rigid composite lasting board, combined with an Ortholite sole, making it stable enough for any hike, should you choose to throw one at it, but also comfortable after quite a few hours into the night studying at the library.

The Crest Hi is perfect for anyone needing improved ankle support and water proof grade construction, without having to sacrifice their steeze.

Under normal circumstances, you’d have to take your pick: active and capable but uncomfortable and uglier than your aunt’s Crocs, cool but only wearable during sunshine and blue skies, fashionable but flimsy, the list goes on an on of possible combinations that only sometimes are the right option.

With Ridgemont Outfitters, you’re able to find a shoe that meets all your needs without compromise, tailored to your particular style, that’s always the right option.

The post Ridgemont Outfitters Does it Again With the Crest appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Korbata Bow Ties

It takes a certain kind of man to rock a bow tie. A confident man. A well dressed man. A man who knows what he’s doing. You are that man.  Korbata ties are clearly a new breed and won’t leave you looking like a middleschool science teacher. Their bold colors and modern fabrics combine to drag the bow tie into the 21st century and deserve a place on your neck this year. And they are handmade in Guatemala, so you can be sure what you are rocking is unique.

Neon Bandits Socks

Socks, like Hansel, are so hot right now. The look of bold socks has transitioned from business down to casual late last year. Now they are everywhere and Neon Bandits are bringing prime examples that walk the line between too boring and too loud. Their patterns and styles are equally at home for a day on the basketball court as they are for just lounging around the park. Leave your all white, or heaven forbid all black, socks at home and start wearing out something with a bit more flavor and sass. Your stinky shoes will thank you.

Ab Aetterno

While everyone is still fawning over fabric strapped watches, take a bolder direction by picking up one of Ab Aeterno’s wooden watches. These time pieces stand our on your wrist in the best way possible. I’ve gotten more complements on mine, and they almost always lead to conversations about the watch and how it is made. It’s a friend-maker and date-getter is what I’m saying…

Ray Ban Caravans

Leave round aviators to cops and old men living out their Top Gun fantasies. Ray Ban Caravans are where the real action is. These squared off aviators are pure style, and will set you apart from the pack. Protect your eyes and bring the fashion with Caravans or any number of their knockoffs.

Nose Piercings

Piercings are becoming more and more commonplace. A good piercing for guys? A simple nose piercing. The good news with these is that, as long as you have your piercing done by a reputable piercer and you keep it clean at all times, you can always change your mind and remove them without anything being too noticeable down the line. Find stylish nose piercing men and give some different styles a try!

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