New Wave Community Member Anthony Namba Captures the Spirit of The Saucony Trainer 80

​In an excellent fusion of heritage and creativity, New Wave Community member and Creative Director Anthony Namba has delivered a compelling visual proposal to promote the Saucony Trainer 80, a sneaker that seamlessly blends performance and style, shot in Manchester. Namba's vision not only highlights the shoe's classic design but also embodies Saucony's "Run As One" mantra, emphasizing community, rhythm, and achievement.​

Photograpy by Ella Mayamothi 

The Saucony Trainer 80, originally introduced in 1978, revolutionized the running world with its integration of high-density EVA foam, providing a softer, more responsive feel for runners. Today, this classic returns with its retro charm intact and a modern edge, appealing to runners, style enthusiasts, and community builders alike. ​Namba's participation in this campaign has deepened his connection with both the running and creative communities. Reflecting on the experience, he noted that it "helped develop and strengthen relationships within my network." The collaborative nature of the project fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose, mirroring the ethos that Saucony champions.​

One of the most memorable moments for Namba was witnessing the collective energy on set. "Working with everybody on set" brought the campaign's vision to life, capturing dynamic moments of movement, joy, and togetherness. This aligns perfectly with the execution guidelines emphasizing an uplifting, inclusive, and authentic tone.​

Creative Director and Director: Anthony Namba

1st Assistant: Daniel Amadi

Director Of Photography: Daniel Oyegadi

Camera Operator: Oscar Cloud

1st Assistant Camera: Sujanhariharan Ragunathan

2nd Assistant Camera, Edit and Grade: Hriday Das

Stylist: Mya Shahna-Rose

Styling assistant: Buky Komolafe

Photographer: Ella Mayamothi

Model: Rivers Waters

The project also offered Namba a renewed appreciation for Saucony as a brand. He was particularly impressed by the Trainer 80's classic design and excited by the various styling possibilities it presented. The shoe's balance between performance and style allowed stylists to explore different scenarios and stories, enriching the creative process.​

Saucony's commitment to community is evident in their collaborations with London-based groups like Balamii and Your Friendly Runners, who embody the "Run As One" philosophy. These partnerships celebrate the intersection of running and culture, reinforcing Saucony's dedication to fostering collective experiences.

Namba found that the "Run As One" mantra resonated personally, encapsulating themes of community, rhythm, and achievement. He also recognized the value of meticulous planning throughout the project, a lesson he intends to carry forward in his personal and professional endeavors.​

In terms of performance, the Trainer 80 excelled across various settings, be it on the track, city streets, or cultural events. Namba observed that they were "comfortable and looked good in each context," a testament to the shoe's versatile design.Notable features like the Saucony S logo with the three dots, the tread on the soles, and the shoe’s classic, low-profile silhouette stood out, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and functionality.​

Looking ahead, Namba expressed interest in collaborating with Saucony on projects that delve deeper into the performance aspect of athletics. He aspires to explore the mindset of athletes and the stories that shape their world, offering a narrative that goes beyond lifestyle to focus on dedication and achievement.​

Anthony Namba's work on the Saucony Trainer 80 via our platform exemplifies the harmonious blend of heritage, community, and creativity. Through his vision, the timeless sneaker not only pays homage to its roots but also strides confidently into the future, inspiring a new generation of runners and style enthusiasts to "Run As One."​