I have been knowing the brothers behind Crooks & Castles since the mid 90′s.  We have always supported each others creative endeavors, I have talked about how they were once signed to a label I was a partner in called S.O.L. Musicworks.  Since then they have gone on to conquer the fashion world, one step at a time.  The Crooks Empire now encompasses every part of your lifestyle, they have fully developed the line to include everything from wallets and bags, to denim and outerwear.  Their newest project is something I had personally been urging them to do for quite some time,  Crooks & Castles Footwear.  After seeing a couple of collaborations with Vans and some of their samples last Magic, I had been bugging them to get me a pair early….The homie Chris “Luda” Natalio recently sent me the Crooks & Castles Decklo.  A classic , clean design premium canvas, waxed laces, leather accents around the eyelets, low profile cup-sole, vulcanized, and comfortable….damn near perfect. Thanks to the homies at Crooks (too many to type) for lacing me.  Can’t Stop The Crooks !!

On my previous blog in 2007 I showed you an inside look at the Timberland offices in New Hampshire.  I had been invited to review their Fall 2007 line-up and give some insight.  At the time, they were suffering from trying to chase a growing sneaker market with some pretty horrible sneaker boot hybrids. They seemed to understand how much they had confused their heritage consumers and were getting back to making good old boots again. I also discovered that one of my favorite Hip-Hop journalists Brian Coleman was working there doing their PR.  Since then Brian has successfully helped Timberland regain some of their original flavor, and introduce the line that has given them credibility again The Abington collection.  I received the Timberland Abington joints (above) in the mail yesterday from brother B. Coleman.  Suede Tan Handsewn, and Black Abington Hiker…much obliged. If you read anything other than a blog, read his book Check The Technique, Rakim Told MeThe Abington Collection returns Timberland to it’s roots (no pun intended), and are made with great materials.  Nothing extra, just really durable, stylish shoes.