Cole Haan ZeroGrand is a brogue for the future

By Amanda DePerro September 9, 2014

Cole Haan Sand Beige Brogue — Image used with permission by copyright holder

There’s a lot to love about a well-constructed brogue, from intricate and elegant perforations to sturdy, dark leather. Cole Haan saw a lot of room for improvement on the timeless style, and set about incorporating modern footwear elements. The result is the ZeroGrand, a brogue fitted with flexible uppers in beautiful suede or ripstop nylon, and an outsole that looks like it was pulled right off a running shoe.

Zerogrand Shoes Dress shoes — Image used with permission by copyright holder

To celebrate the launch of the new dress shoe, Cole Haan tapped designers and fashion-forward makers to create an image of the future that involves the ZeroGrand. Focusing on New York and Tokyo as hotspots for style, the Future Diaries aren’t just examples of outfits to go with your new shoes, they’re expectations for the colors and trends of the near future. In addition to crafting unique looks to go with the shoe, each designer was also asked for a sentiment about the future, what it is, or sounds like. These pontifications range from concrete to existentialist, and elevate the looks from just an outfit to fleshed-out concept.

Tokyo Street Zero Grand — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Because the ZeroGrands are so lightweight, it made sense to make sure that both the inside and outside are treated carefully, leaving you the option of wearing them with dress socks, or barefoot. Originally, perforations in the side allowed water to drain out when crossing a marsh or body of water. The holes still appear on the shoe, but now they’re intended to allow the suede and leather uppers to breathe, as well as take on a new flexibility not usually found in brogues.

Cole Haan Brogue Suede — Image used with permission by copyright holder

In addition to suede options, the ZeroGrand is also available in a no stitch variation. The upper is constructed from ripstop nylon, and welded together using high frequency welding, a method of sealing together materials involving pressure and heat. The result is a shoe that won’t rip or tear, feels light, and looks great hitting the pavement.

The Cole Haan ZeroGrand is available in a variety of colors, in both suede and ripstop nylon, on the ZeroGrand site.

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Amanda DePerro is a Midwest-based freelance writer and journalist who loves video games, gardening, and true crime. She is a…

Fashion & Style

Best G-Shock Prime Day deals: As low as $50

G-SHOCK MTG-B3000PRB1 'Aurora Oval' Limited Edition

Prime Day is over for another year, but there are still some excellent watch deals around if you haven't got round to buying yourself a new watch yet. Right now, we're focusing on the best G-Shock Prime Day deals which remain. There are some great discounts around on the already highly affordable brand so you can enjoy some deep discounts in no time. These deals could end at any moment given Prime Day is over so don't delay if you see one that you love. These G-Shock deals won't be around forever so take a look at what's there and read up on our buying advice below.
The best G-Shock Prime Day deal
Casio G-Shock GWM5610 -- $103, was $150

Casio's G-Shock is a brand that's known for its durability, and the Casio G-Shock GWM5610 is an excellent example of what you can expect from its digital watches. It's an extremely tough watch because its shock-resistant design provides protection against all sorts of impact and vibration, and it also has 20-bar water resistance so you can wear it during swimming, surfing, jet skiing -- even just while taking a shower. G-Shock EL Backlight is also present, allowing you to see the watch face even in complete darkness. The Casio G-Shock GWM5610 is solar-powered, allowing it to convert even the faintest of light into energy that will keep it running without the need to replace batteries.

Fashion & Style

Best Timex Prime Day deals: starting at $38

While Prime Day might officially be over, there are still some great watch deals going on right now. While the deals may be lowering in number, there's still a chance to save big on some awesome affordable watches from Timex. These Timex watch deals are varied and delightful. Besides rounding up all the best deals, we've also taken the time to think about what you should consider when choosing a Timex watch, so you know exactly what will be best for your needs and situation. Here's what's out there but be quick as deals will end soon!
Best Timex Prime Day Deal
Timex Men's Weekender 40mm -- $38, was $65

The Timex Weekender is a wristwatch with a classic design, featuring a 40mm brass case with mineral glass crystal and a silver-tone finish, and an adjustable genuine leather strap. The watch features the brand's Indiglo light-up dial, and it's water resistant to depths of up to 100 feet. The Timex Weekender isn't designed to be worn for swimming, but it will be able to withstand splashes of water or brief immersion, so it's an excellent watch for weekend trips to the beachfront or pool parties. It's also pretty durable, so you don't have to be extra careful with your movements while you're wearing this watch.

Fashion & Style

Best Casio Prime Day deals: Cheap digital watches for $30

Casio G Shock MRG-G2000GA Gassan

While Prime Day is now over for another year, there are still some great watch deals around if you missed out on the main sales events. Numbers may be waning but there are some sweet bargains to chase still. We've rounded up all the best Casio Prime Day deals so you can save even more on the already highly affordable watch brand. It's perfect for a first watch or something a little retro. Besides picking out all the deals, we've also spent some time offering up what to consider when choosing a Casio watch too. Here's all you need to know but be fast as these deals will end very soon.
Best Casio Prime Day deal
Casio AE1200WH Series digital watch -- $30, was $43

The Casio AE1200WH Series digital watch is relatively affordable, but it's packed with features that you would appreciate on your wrist watch. It has a world time function that will let you check the time in 48 cities across 31 time zones, which will be very helpful for those who are working with colleagues spread across the globe. The watch will let you set up to five alarms, either on a daily basis or a one-time alert, and you can also activate an hourly time signal if you need to know whenever a new hour starts. The Casio AE1200WH Series digital watch is also water resistant to depths of up to 100 meters, so it's fine to wear while swimming and it won't be damaged by sudden rainfall, and its battery can last up to 10 years before requiring a replacement.