The “Stage Dives” Collection from SauconySneaks pays homage to the hardcore punk scene. She was inspired by DIY culture and the compelling energy of live concerts. Rainer Imhoff, founder of the SauconySneaks community, combines his passion for sneakers and music in this project.

Rainer Imhoff is a committed sneaker collector and initiator of the Instagram community @SauconySneaks, which has over 81,000 followers.

He has been fascinated by Saucony sneakers since 2011 — particularly because of their presence in the hardcore punk scene. In addition to his enthusiasm for fashion and music, he works as a special education teacher and is intensively committed to social inclusion.

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Hardcore punk emerged at the end of the 1970s as an aggressive development of punk rock and is characterized by fast tempos, raw energy and socio-critical lyrics. Influential bands such as Black Flag, Minor Threat and Youth of Today continue to shape the genre today. We have linked a few bands to you at the end of the article.

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Many hardcore fans live vegan to set an example against the exploitation of animals. All materials used in this sneaker are vegan, promoting conscious consumption. Band shirts, cargo pants, caps and sneakers are key elements.

The design concept is based on a well-thought-out selection of colors: grey stands for minimalism and understatement, while orange, burgundy and purple are reminiscent of the typical shades of band shirts. Olive and Sand stand for cargo pants that many hardcore fans wear.

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Other details include the “Stage Dives” embroidery on the heel, an insole print with a concert scene, mesh, vegan mushroom leather, synthetic suede and synthetic leather. A rubber sole ensures long-lasting grip — both on stage and in everyday life. A concert scene can be seen on the exclusive sneaker box.

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The “Stage Dives” edition of the Saucony Shadow 6000 is a strictly limited special release and makes a clear statement for hardcore punk, vegan fashion and creative self-expression.

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"Hardcore has deeply influenced my style and perspective on life. From embracing veganism to becoming a special needs teacher, the global HardcorePunk scene has shaped me in countless ways. For my take on the Shadow 6000, I wanted to create a shoe that perfectly complements the classic Hardcore outfit - something built for stage diving and moshing at full intensity. The design draws inspiration from my deep connection to the Hardcore-Punk scene."

— Rainer Imhoff aka SauconySneaks

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The Saucony x SauconySneaks Shadow6000 “Stage Dives” will be released on March 3 and will then be available at the following retailers: 43einhalb, AFEW Store, HHV and Schrittmacher.

Some time ago, we had the opportunity to talk to Rainer about his passion for Saucony — from his favorite models to the stories behind his collection. In our interview with him, you can learn more about his enthusiasm for the brand and what makes it so special to him. Be sure to check it out!

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Photos via Saucony/Rainer Imhoff