Two decades ago, Salomon unleashed a design that would forever change the game: the ACS PRO. But here's where it gets controversial—what started as a high-performance trail shoe evolved into a cultural phenomenon, coveted by sneakerheads and collectors alike. Now, as Salomon celebrates 20 years of the ACS PRO, they're shifting the focus from the shoe itself to the community that made it an icon. And this is the part most people miss—it's not just about the product; it's about the people, the stories, and the shared obsession that turned a shoe into a movement.
Salomon's recent campaigns have taken a bold turn, grounding their storytelling in real spaces and genuine relationships. For this anniversary, they're doubling down on that approach, exploring how culture is built through repeated connections and shared passions. To bring this vision to life, Salomon Sportstyle teamed up with London-based photographer TJ Sawyerr and rapper Lord Apex, whose everyday circle became the heart of the campaign. Shot in meaningful locations across Shepherd’s Bush—from Eastpoint Studios to Peckings Record Store—the project featured not just models, but friends, family, and collaborators like Yeisha Tashana, Joshua Ojehonmon, and J-Magz. This is where it gets personal—Lord Apex’s philosophy of community as a "safe ecosystem for like-minded individuals" shaped every frame, creating an atmosphere so relaxed it felt more like a reunion than a photoshoot.
But here's the twist—while the campaign celebrates community, the ACS PRO itself remains the undisputed star. The 20th-anniversary edition pays homage to an unreleased 2005 prototype, blending its experimental roots with modern design. Priced at £200.00, the limited-edition Golden Archive ACS Pro features a transparent chassis, carbon-textured cage, and a special logo, each tagged as a "sample" and packaged in a commemorative gold and black shoe bag. Available globally from December 10th in Rich Old Gold, Silver Cloud, and Black, this release is more than a shoe—it's a collector's dream.
To take the celebration further, Salomon Sportstyle has launched immersive activations in cities like Paris, New York, and Tokyo, hiding unique codes that unlock exclusive rewards, including the anniversary shoe. And this is where it gets interactive—the hunt mirrors the thrill of dedicated collectors, turning the anniversary into a global treasure hunt that rewards participation and exploration.
So, here's the question: Is the ACS PRO's legacy about the shoe, the culture, or the people who made it iconic? Let’s spark some debate—share your thoughts in the comments. And don’t forget to check out the full campaign gallery above to see how Salomon and Lord Apex redefined what it means to celebrate two decades of innovation and community.
