Clan Stealth Edition Riding Sneakers Long Term Review: Introduction

Introduction Construction Product Details

Introduction

These are Clan’s Stealth Edition riding sneakers which are a successor to the SNKR 1.0. Based on the feedback from customers of the previous edition, Clan has bestowed the new sneakers with multiple improvements in terms of design and material. As per the company, besides offering good protection, these sneakers are high on comfort which makes them suitable for scenarios like commuting to the office regularly and spending an entire day in them. And we plan to put Clan’s claim to test by using these sneakers as much as possible, followed by bringing you a detailed review in a few weeks. As of now, let’s shed light on its construction and features.

Construction

The highlight of the Clan Stealth is the fact that it is made up of oil pull-up leather. This material is made by combining the leather’s fibres with waxes and oils to create a strong bond. As a result, pull-up leather is supposed to be strong and durable. Interestingly, this leather exudes more robust look and feel as it ages. Above all, this material should deliver better abrasion resistance than conventional leather.

Now, coming to the most important aspect – safety. At a glance, these look just like any other ordinary sneakers which are deprived of any protection whatsoever. However, the toes and heels hide a plastic thermoformed layer while the ankle sides comprise TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethane) discs with foam padding.

Also, the portion of the toe which constantly rubs against the gear lever is made up of anti-scratch rubberised PU. Other features of the Clan Stealth include an extruded midsole for lateral protection, high visibility reflector, elastic lace holder, geometrically designed exterior sole for high grip, and a breathable mesh liner on the front.

Clan is offering the Stealth Edition in black colour with a choice of three different highlights – grey, red, and orange. Now, the company has advertently kept the colour of the sneakers black because the previous edition’s users complained that retaining the finish of bright colours is challenging. The design is inspired by the high-top lifestyle sneakers and, visually, it is meant to go well with riding denim. While the one we have is the regular variant, the company also has a waterproof trim in its portfolio. It is Rs 1,000 more expensive and delivers waterproofing up to 3 inches.