Jacquemus brings bold Parisian energy to Timberland’s rugged roots with La Bateau—a luxe twist on the classic 3-Eye Lug Boat Shoe. Drenched in “banana yellow,” this limited drop is where streetwear meets runway-ready craftsmanship.
As someone deeply entrenched in the world of fashion and lifestyle, I’ve witnessed numerous collaborations that attempt to bridge the gap between heritage and haute couture. However, the recent alliance between Jacquemus and Timberland stands out as a masterstroke of design synergy.
Jacquemus, renowned for its minimalist yet evocative designs, brings a touch of French sophistication to Timberland’s rugged American aesthetic. The centerpiece of this collaboration, aptly named ‘La Bateau’, is a reimagined version of Timberland’s iconic 3-Eye Lug Boat Shoe. Introduced in 1978, this silhouette has long been a staple in summer wardrobes, and now, it’s been revitalized with a fresh perspective.
The ‘La Bateau’ boasts a striking “banana yellow” hue—a favorite of Jacquemus’ founder, Simon Porte Jacquemus. This vibrant color choice infuses the classic boat shoe with a contemporary edge, making it a standout piece for the season. Crafted from premium Timberland leather, the shoe retains its traditional hand-sewn construction, ensuring durability and comfort.
As someone deeply embedded in the menswear industry and a longtime admirer of both Jacquemus and Timberland, I see the La Bateau collaboration as a masterful example of what I’ve coined “quiet disruption.” It’s a term I use to describe a shift in design thinking—where the reinvention of a classic silhouette doesn’t scream for attention, but instead, subtly rewires our expectations through thoughtful innovation. In this case, the iconic Timberland boat shoe, a staple of American functional fashion since the late ’70s, is recast with Jacquemus’ unmistakable flair: a bold banana yellow hue, gold-tipped laces, and precision detailing. The result is neither overworked nor ostentatious—it’s elevated, exacting, and essential.
What makes this collaboration so successful is its restraint. Despite its vivid palette and modernized accents, La Bateaunever loses sight of its original identity. This is the very essence of quiet disruption—an evolution that honors tradition while confidently pushing style forward. It doesn’t dilute the heritage of either brand but rather highlights how design maturity and vision can coexist within a single product. For me, this is where menswear finds its most meaningful expression: not in abandoning the classics, but in refining them with taste, intelligence, and intention.
What truly sets this collaboration apart are the subtle yet impactful design elements. From the gold-colored lace-tip eyelets—featuring both square and round tips—to the co-branded metal lace keepers, every detail has been meticulously curated. The soft leather lining and rugged lug outsole further enhance the shoe’s appeal, marrying form and function seamlessly.
Priced at $250 USD, the ‘La Bateau’ will be available starting April 23 on Jacquemus.com and Timberland’s official website. Given the buzz surrounding this release, it’s poised to become a coveted item among fashion enthusiasts and collectors alike.
In an era where collaborations are abundant, Jacquemus and Timberland have managed to create something truly distinctive. ‘La Bateau’ is more than just a shoe; it’s a testament to the power of blending diverse design philosophies to produce something both timeless and contemporary.
Save Article
