Article: Held by Giant Hands: grounds Drops "MANUS," a Sole Blending Tenderness and Dread
Held by Giant Hands: grounds Drops "MANUS," a Sole Blending Tenderness and Dread
grounds to Release New Sole "MANUS" on October 31, 2026, Unveiled During Paris Fashion Week FW26/27
About "MANUS"
"MANUS" derives from the Latin word for "hand." The design takes inspiration from two perspectives: the welcoming gesture of offering both hands seen in traditional Japanese omotenashi (hospitality), and the comforting sensation of being gently held by human hands.
Its striking sculptural form—appearing as though a giant hand supports each foot—evokes the reassuring warmth of genuine hospitality, while simultaneously carrying an uncanny, eerie presence. It is a conceptual design where tenderness and dread coexist.
The midsole is crafted from lightweight, supple Phylon to deliver lasting comfort. TPU accents on the nails accentuate their presence, catching the eye with each step to lend the footwear a blend of uncanny strangeness and singular beauty.
Leaving handprints on the pavement rather than traditional footprints, this new sole embodies grounds’ signature playfulness and provocative aesthetic. Sole height: 4.5 cm.
MANUS GENTLEMAN
A model pairing the distinctive sole with a formal, classic upper. A ring adorns the left big toe of the sole, lending it an almost animate, unsettling personality.
Item: MANUS GENTLEMAN
Sizes: 23 cm – 26 cm
Release Date: October 31
Item: MANUS GENTLEMAN INK
Sizes: 23 cm – 26 cm
Release Date: October 31
MANUS MONUM
Evoking the weathered fragments of an antique sculpture, the "MONUM" possesses a dignified presence reminiscent of a historical statue’s feet. The rugged upper draws inspiration from aged French combat boots, contrasted by the hand-shaped sole beneath—infusing a quiet tenderness into its military silhouette.
Item: MANUS MONUM
Sizes: 23 cm – 26 cm
Release Date: October 31
MANUS CRADL RIBBON
A winter boot featuring a layered construction: a functional zipped inner shoe wrapped in a soft felt outer shell, designed to evoke the warmth of a baby blanket nestled in a cradle. The outstretched palm sole imparts a sense of being gently cradled, offering comfort even on the most freezing days.
Item: MANUS CRADL RIBBON
Sizes: 23 cm – 26 cm
Release Date: October 31
*Exclusive to grounds STORE 001
