Autry Medalist Low Man

Autry Medalist: Iconic 1980s tennis minimalism in a premium leather finish

The Autry Medalistrange is synonymous with timeless vintage aesthetics and genuine shoemaking craftsmanship in the Footshop range . Originally launched in 1985 in Dallas, Texas , under the slogan “the shoe with the American flag”, the shoe gained immediate recognition from industry experts and won a prestigious award from *Tennis Magazine* for best design and innovation on the market. The brand’s revival has brought the Medalist silhouette back into the spotlight among lovers of minimalist streetwear and‘quiet luxury’, where it stands out thanks to its faithful preservation of the original 1980s proportions and the use of premium materials.

Story and heritage: From the courts of Texas to a mainstay of the modern smart-casual wardrobe

The history of the Autry brand and its flagship Medalist is firmly linked to the golden age of American tennis:

• The birth of an icon (1985): Jim Autry founded the brand with the aim of creating specialised footwear for athletes that could withstand the demanding movements on the court. The Medalist became a breakthrough thanks to its reinforced toe, lateral stability and unmistakable logo featuring a woven American flag.

• A successful relaunch and preservation of the brand’s DNA: Following a period of decline, the brand made a spectacular comeback in 2019. The new management deliberately retained the original manufacturing processes, period branding and the characteristic yellowish midsole, evoking the natural patina of vintage trainers.

• Timeless versatility: Today, the Autry Medalist transcends the boundaries of sport and everyday streetwear. It serves as a natural bridge between more formal fashion, casual suits and relaxed urban style.

Materials and construction features

The Autry Medalist trainers are built on a robust construction that ensures durability and all-day comfort:

• Premium full-grain leather: The upper is crafted from high-quality smooth cowhide leather, sometimes combined with finely sanded suede overlays, ensuring softness, flexibility and elegant ageing of the material as it is worn.

• Perforated toe cap: Ensures optimal ventilation of the shoe’s interior and pays homage to the shoe’s original sporting functionality.

• Leather insole and terry lining: The interior of the shoe combinescotton terry with an anatomically shaped leather insole up to 2 cm thick, which reliably absorbs impact and ensures maximum comfort whether worn barefoot or with socks.

• Stitched rubber sole (Cupsole): The flat rubber construction, with its yellowed retro look, guarantees stability, abrasion resistance and a secure footing on hard urban surfaces.