JJJJound returns with a new collaboration, partnering this time with French label Plasticana to revisit the eco-conscious Gardana clog. Known for its restrained aesthetic, the Montreal-based studio applies its signature approach here as well, choosing subtlety over transformation.
SHOES
Plasticana originally designed the Gardana clog using recycled hemp-based plastic. The material gives the shoe its soft sepia hue, derived entirely from the sugar content naturally present in hemp. Designed with comfort in mind, the clog offers a loose fit and a lightweight build. Plasticana markets the design as vegan and fully recyclable, aligning with the brand’s interest in low-impact production.
For its part, JJJJound makes only a minor intervention. The design studio keeps the structure, material, and color of the original clog completely intact. The only visible change arrives in the form of a small JJJJound logo placed on the back heel. It’s a move in line with the studio’s known design restraint, but one that hasn’t landed well with everyone.
Social media responded quickly and without restraint. Some followers interpreted the release as an attempt at humor or satire, while others voiced clear frustration. Reactions ranged from disbelief to skepticism, with many questioning the intent behind the collaboration. Some dismissed the release entirely with short remarks or sarcasm. The backlash reveals a growing expectation among JJJJound’s audience for more thoughtful design input, particularly in a space where limited-edition collaborations usually generate strong demand.
Despite the divided response, JJJJound remains consistent in its design language. The studio has built a following by avoiding over-explained concepts and resisting the pull of trends. The Gardana clog fits that method, offering a pared-down product that puts material and form before decoration or reinterpretation.
The original Gardana clog currently retails online for $68 USD, though no official price has been confirmed for the JJJJound version. Fans can expect the shoe to arrive as part of the studio’s Spring Summer 2025 collection in the coming weeks.
