On October 6, 2024, Sledgers proudly sponsored the Shanon Pamaong Menswear Challenge by The Fashion Institute of the Philippines (FIP), the premier fashion school in the Philippines, in their dazzling graduation show that exhibited the talent and creativity of 15 emerging student designers. 

The fashion show brought together prominent figures from the industry such as Preview's Editor-in-Chief Marj Ramos-Clemente, FIP President and veteran designer Renee Salud, and designers Ditta Sandico, Thian Rodriguez, and Jaggy Glarino as judges of the event.

One of the event highlights was the Shanon Pamaong Menswear Challenge, which was named after the founder and CEO of FIP. This challenge is a reflection of Shanon’s advocacy for enhancing menswear in the Philippines. It is also an avenue for menswear designers to showcase their innovative designs while wearing Sledgers’ classic pieces – from elegant boots and oxfords to more casual loafers. Each designer crafted a unique outfit that skillfully incorporated a pair of Sledgers to complete the respective looks.

Among the talented designers, Mar Semillano stood out the most with her fashion piece which struck a perfect balance between formal and casual appeal. Deviating from the traditional rigid suit-and-tie pairing with leather shoes, her metamorphic design captivated the judges the most, earning her the Menswear Challenge award.

The Sledgers team supported the judges’ decision, noting that the winner’s design embodies the brand’s identity. The outfit – a classic suit and trousers with a cap and an elongated, tucked out polo– strikes a perfect balance of timeless elegance and modern flair. Whether it was a coincidence or not, “ It was a good coincidence,” says Edward Keith Roxas Jr., Regional Brand Executive of Primer Group. “Sledgers is a shoe brand that fashionable people can relate to and really associate with,” adds Edward.

Sledgers has been refining its comfortable, lightweight and versatile men’s shoes since 1921. The showcase of Sledgers shoes at the Menswear Challenge demonstrates the versatility of its footwear and how well it can complement fashionable brands across different styles. 

Sledgers Signature Style Award

As a major sponsor of the event, Sledgers had the honor of awarding a talented individual with the title, “Sledgers Signature Style Award.” The award criteria focused on which model best represents Sledgers' penchant for men's fashion and style on their Instagram feed. 

After careful evaluation, Benji Deschepper took home the award with his photos that showcase the stunning blend of style and comfort – reflecting what Sledgers stands for as a brand.

The future of the brand

As the brand continues to grow in the Philippines, it stays true to its roots as a grassroots brand that eagerly supports emerging Filipino designers. The brand also aspires to participate in more fashion shows where Filipino designers and talents take center stage on the runway.

Imagine if models would step out on the runway in a pair of elegant, comfortable, and versatile Sledgers footwear. The possibilities for fashion looks in the men's category would be limitless with Sledgers. Most especially now as they continue to expand their product line, with their latest AW 2024 collection featuring the Noel – a striking pair of classic loafers in black and two-toned black and white.