Introducing the Revolutionary 'BAT' Sole: A Fusion of Gothic Architecture and Footwear Innovation

A New Era in Footwear Design: The 'BAT' Sole

In a remarkable unveiling during Paris Fashion Week for Spring/Summer 2026, the innovative footwear brand, grounds, presented its latest creation, the 'BAT' sole. This novel sole boasts a striking 10.5 cm height with an audacious arch structure that harkens to the elegance of Gothic architecture.

A Blend of Art and Functionality

The 'BAT' sole is not just designed for aesthetic appeal—it is ingeniously engineered to ensure stability. With a bold profile that might appear precarious at first glance, the continuous arching structure disperses weight effectively, providing wearers with an incredible sense of support and dynamism. This means you get to showcase cutting-edge design without sacrificing comfort.

The sole’s design is a mesmerizing blend of historical inspiration and futuristic elements. It combines textures reminiscent of a spaceship's geometry with an almost skeletal presence, inviting thoughts of medieval architecture’s grandeur. Crafted from phylon, the sole features rubber parts that mimic the foundations of columns and intricate CPU components, creating a fascinating interplay between the organic and the artificial.

A Closer Look at BAT GREEDO

Alongside the 'BAT' sole, the BAT GREEDO model is sure to turn heads. This piece features a knit upper adorned with bold plastic elements that blur the lines between the upper and the sole, creating a cohesive sculptural effect. The footwear is available in various striking color combinations, including:

- BAT GREEDO BROWN / DARK GRAY
- BAT GREEDO BLACK GRAY / BLACK NEON ORANGE
- BAT GREEDO GRASSHOPPER / GRASSHOPPER
- BAT GREEDO DESERT MOTH / DESERT MOTH

The BAT GREEDO will retail at ¥94,600 (including tax) and will be available in sizes ranging from 23 cm to 28 cm, with its official launch set for 22 August 2026.

Discover the BAT RIB SOCK

Additionally, there's the BAT RIB SOCK, which features a sporty, simple ribbed knit upper inspired by classic sock styles. The unconventional silhouette of the sole finally harmonizes with the understated upper, paving the way for a fresh approach to boot design. Available in:

- BAT RIB SOCK BLACK GRAY / BLACK NEON ORANGE
- BAT RIB SOCK CHARCOAL / DARK GRAY

At a price of ¥90,200 (including tax) and offering the same size range, the BAT RIB SOCK promises to hit stores alongside the BAT GREEDO on the same date.

About Grounds and its Vision

Founded in 2019 by 株式会社FOOLS, grounds operates with a vision summed up as “LEAP GRAVITY,” aiming to redefine the relationship humans have with gravity through innovative sole designs. By creating unique connections between outsoles and the ground, the brand seeks to reshape the perception of footwear as an extension of the human form.

With their striking debut at Paris Fashion Week commencing from SS25, grounds has expanded to include four flagship stores in Japan and partnerships across 145 retailers in 22 countries. Through cross-border e-commerce and catering to international customers, the brand has successfully engaged over 100 nations worldwide.

As we look forward to the official launch of the 'BAT' collection, it is clear that grounds is not merely creating shoes; they are initiating a movement rooted in creativity, innovation, and a touch of historical homage.