Rick Owens Jumbo Lace

When it comes to avant-garde fashion design, few do it better than Rick Owens. The American designer consistently pushes boundaries with his dark, gothic aesthetic and ingenious silhouettes. One of his most famous creations is the Jumbo Lace sneaker. With its chunky sole, lace-up vamp, and distinctive look, it has become a modern classic.

If you’re considering a pair of Jumbo Laces for your collection, this comprehensive buying guide has everything you need to know. I’ll cover the key features, sizing and fit, pricing, care tips, and more – so keep reading to become a Jumbo Lace expert!

An Iconic Silhouette With Standout Style

The Jumbo Lace first debuted back in 2016, during Rick Owens’ Spring/Summer collection showcase in Paris. Its standout features include:

• Exaggerated midsole – The real showstopper! At 5 inches tall, the midsole adds height and makes a statement.
• Lace-up vamp – Lending a subtle industrial edge, laces snake up the front in place of a typical tongue.
• Monochrome colorways – Most pairs come in tonal black, white, grey, and cream leather. Quintessential Rick Owens!
• Structured shape – The Jumbo Lace keeps its structure thanks to the thick rubber midsole and leather upper.

Overall, the look is chunky yet streamlined – equal parts avant-garde and versatile. The exaggerated sole adds dynamism to any outfit.

How To Style Your Jumbo Laces for Bold Looks

While the Jumbo Lace makes an impact on its own, it looks even better styled as the centerpiece of your outfit:

• Pair with slim cut trousers or leggings to balance the proportions. Avoid wide leg pants that can overwhelm the shoe.
• Monochrome black or white outfits will let the Jumbo Lace pop as the focal point.
• For women, mini skirts and dresses show off the shoes nicely. Go for sleek, solid colors rather than busy patterns.
• Leather jackets, oversized button-downs, and drapey fabrics complement the Jumbo Lace’s aesthetic.
• Accessorize minimally. Let the statement shoe take center stage rather than compete.

The Jumbo Lace commands attention, so keep the rest of your look streamlined. Build outfits up from the shoes outward.

How The Jumbo Lace Compares to Other Rick Owens Designs

Devout Rick Owens fans will notice that the Jumbo Lace takes cues from other classic Owens silhouettes. Here’s how it compares:

• The Ramones sneaker has a similar low-top, lace-up profile but without the dramatic sole.
• The Mastodon proportions are echoed in the Jumbo Lace’s exaggerated shape.
• The thick Geobasket sole clearly inspired the height of the Jumbo Lace.
• The Dunk sneaker also rocks a tall sole, but with overlays rather than laces.

Overall, the Jumbo Lace evolves and refines ideas from some of Rick’s most famous footwear. The result is instantly recognizable as a Rick Owens original!

Where To Buy Your Own Pair of Jumbo Laces

Since the Jumbo Lace remains one of Rick Owens’ most coveted designs, where you shop matters. Here are the best places to buy:

• Rick Owens official web store – The obvious first stop! Owens carries select colorways like black, white, and milk.
• SSENSE – This luxury retailer stocks the Jumbo Lace in special editions like metallic silver and army green.
• Totokaelo – For a highly curated selection of the best Rick Owens designs, including the Jumbo Lace.
• Farfetch – Look here for sought-after colorways that are sold out elsewhere.
• Grailed – This resale site is great for finding rare Jumbo Laces, though prices may be higher. Exercise caution when buying secondhand.

For the widest selection of colors and limited editions, shop around online. Prices are generally the same across authorized retailers.

The Materials That Give Jumbo Laces Their Structure

Rick Owens specially selects quality materials to achieve the Jumbo Lace’s sculptural shape:

• Rubber cupsole – The hallmark midsole uses durable rubber with foam cushions inside.
• Leather upper – Premium calfskin leather that molds to your feet over time.
• ** Cotton laces** – The waxed cotton laces are thick and substantial.
• Leather lining – The inside is lined with supple leather for comfort.
• Leather insole – A leather insole supports the bottom of the foot.

The combination of sturdy rubber and soft leather gives you support while allowing flexibility. The Jumbo Lace finds balance in its materials.

Be Aware of A Few Common Sizing Issues

Before buying your Jumbo Laces, it’s crucial to understand the sizing. Here are some key considerations:

• They fit smaller than standard shoes – size up at least one full size.
• The lengthy sole makes them best for those 5’8” and above. Otherwise they may overwhelm your frame.
• There’s a narrow toe box – avoid if you have wide feet.
• The midsole has a break-in period to soften up. Expect some stiffness at first.
• Some wearers say the back rub their Achilles during wear. Wear high socks initially.

Getting the sizing right is key to making the Jumbo Laces work for you. Be mindful of the snug fit and break-in time needed.

Caring For Your Jumbo Laces Properly

With leather shoes of this caliber, taking care of them properly ensures they’ll last for seasons:

• Weatherproof spray – Use a protector spray to prevent stains and water damage. Re-apply every couple of months.
• Shoe trees – Insert cedar shoe trees after each wear to absorb moisture and maintain the shape.
• Proper storage – Keep the Jumbo Laces in their box, away from direct sunlight and humidity.
• Gentle cleanser – Use a mild soap and damp cloth to spot clean. Avoid harsh products that could strip the leather.
• Conditioner – Every few months, apply a high-quality leather conditioner to nourish and moisturize.

With some basic care, your Jumbo Laces will hold up well for years of fashion-forward looks. Don’t be afraid to wear them out and show them off!

No Need to Worry – Jumbo Laces Come with A 1 Year Warranty

For $900+ sneakers, peace of mind comes from knowing Rick Owens offers a 1 year warranty against:

• Manufacturer defects – Faulty materials or construction flaws.
• Workmanship issues – Any errors on the part of the craftsman.

To enact the warranty, contact the original retailer, who can evaluate the issue and start a claim. Make sure to provide proof of purchase.

The coverage protects against immediate defects or premature damage during normal wear and tear. It does not apply to regular aging or accidents.

Overall, the 1 year warranty provides that extra assurance for your investment. Ensure you buy from authorized sellers so you’re protected.

Pricing Ranges from $900 for Basics up to $2000 for Special Editions

As an exclusive high fashion design, the Jumbo Lace commands a luxury price tag:

• Standard pairs – The classic black, white, and grey leather versions retail around $900 – $1,100.
• Seasonal collections – Special colors and materials like silver metallic or pony hair can cost $1,300 – $1,600.
• Limited collabs – When Rick Owens collabs with brands like Adidas or Moncler, prices go up to $1,500 – $2,000.
• Resale value – Used pairs in great condition hover around $1,000. Worn or damaged can dip below $800.

While not inexpensive, the pricing reflects the quality of materials and meticulous Italian craftsmanship. Think long-term cost per wear rather than sticker shock.

What Reviewers are Saying About the Jumbo Lace

The Jumbo Lace is adored both by Rick Owens devotees and sneakerheads alike. Here’s what buyers love:

• The look is “futuristic and badass”, according to several happy reviewers.
• Most say they are surprisingly comfortable despite the rigid look.
• Many love the ability to customize the fit by adjusting the laces.
• Reviewers recommend sizing up to allow room in the narrow toe box.
• Most reviewers say the quality justifies the splurge.
• There are some complaints of the heel rubbing during initial wears.

Overall, buyers rate the style and comfort highly – as long as you get the sizing right. Expect some break-in time.

A Monochrome Palette With a Few Limited Edition Colors

Rick Owens keeps most Jumbo Laces pared back in classic black, white, grey, and cream leather. But keep an eye out for these special editions:

• Milk – A pristine white rendition, nick-named the Milk colorway.
• Silver – With metallic silver leather and a grey sole, this version has an edge.
• Army green – Dark olive leather on a black outsole for an understated twist.
• Pony hair – Luxe animal print pony hair takes the texture up a notch.
• Red/blue – Vibrant monochrome red and blue versions were Mexico exclusive releases.

Part of the appeal lies in the short-run colors that offer more flair. Even the classics get refreshed each season with new takes on the leather.

Built Sturdy With A Leather That Develops Character Over Time

Don’t let the sticker shock deter you – the Jumbo Lace is built from quality leather that endures:

• The calfskin leather upper develops a patina and molds to your feet over time.
• Reviewers mention minimal creasing due to the durable, substantial leather used.
• There are no reports of the rubber sole cracking after seasons of use.
• The foam midsole keeps its signature bounce, with some compression expected.
• Overall, buyers say their Jumbo Laces have held up better than expected given the cost per wear.

With proper care, a pair of Jumbo Laces should deliver years of fashionable wear. The leather will develop character that only adds to its luxe appeal.

A Collector’s Item – Jumbo Laces Often Sell Out Quickly

Due to high demand and low production numbers, the Jumbo Lace is often hard to come by. Here’s what makes them so coveted:

• Limited runs – Rick Owens makes small batches, releasing only a couple hundred of each colorway.
• Seasonal aesthetic – The gothic look drives demand in the fall/winter seasons especially.
• Art piece status – Collectors and fashion fanatics view the shoes as keepsakes more than basics.
• Rapid sell outs – Special collaborations and colors can sell out immediately online.
• Wait lists – Boutiques frequently maintain wait lists of buyers waiting for the next Jumbo Lace drop.

Part of the appeal lies in their elusiveness. Act fast on new releases, or prepare to pay higher resale prices.

The Fit Varies By Individual, But Tends To Run Small

The Jumbo Lace runs uniquely:

• Most wearers recommend sizing up one full size from your regular sneaker size.
• There is a narrow toe box, best suited for narrow to normal width feet.
• The chunky silhouette fits best on larger frames, around 5’8″ and up.
• Some wearers need to adjust the laces for a customizable, snug fit.
• Allow for a break-in period to stretch the stiff leather and foam midsole.
• A few wearers complain that the heel rubs their ankle or Achilles area at first.

Be prepared to allowing sizing up, break-in time, and a snug fit out of the box. Try before you buy if possible.

Similar Styles Also Offer Bold, Industrial Appeal

Fans of Rick Owens’ avant-garde designs should check out similar statement styles, like:

• Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneaker – A punk-inspired lace-up combat boot hybrid.
• Balenciaga Triple S – Chunky sneakers with exaggerated soles, akin to the Jumbo Lace.
• Raf Simons Ozweego Bunny – Futuristic “bunny ear” sneakers from Rick’s good friend Raf.
• Prada Monolith Boots – These towering flatform boots match the Jumbo Lace’s height.
• Vetements Elf Shoe – Demna Gvasalia’s uber-square toe Elf design makes a statement.

For more progressive, fashion-forward footwear, look to these designer styles sharing Rick Owens’ avant spirit.

Sizes Range From US 6 to 13 For Women and 4 to 11 For Men

The Jumbo Lace runs in unisex sizing, but sells out quickly on popular sizes:

Women’s sizing:

• US sizes 6 to 13, including half sizes
• UK sizes 3 to 9.5
• EU sizes 36 to 45

Men’s sizing:

• US sizes 4 to 11, including half sizes
• UK sizes 3.5 to 10.5
• EU sizes 36 to 46

Narrow and wide width options aren’t offered. Remember to size up if in between sizes to allow room in the toe box.

Try Them On If Possible – Returns Vary By Retailer

Because the sizing and comfort is so personalized, try before you buy if you can. Many Rick Owens stockists accept returns, but check policies:

• Rick Owens online accepts returns within 14 days in original condition.
• SSENSE offers free returns within 14 days for store credit only.
• Totokaelo accepts returns of unworn shoes within 30 days.
• Farfetch has a 14 day return window for site credit or exchange.
• For Grailed or resale, all sales tend to be final sale only.

When spending $900+ on shoes, the convenience of free returns gives peace of mind on the investment.

From Day to Night, Jumbo Laces Add Height and Attitude

While their avant-garde look may seem intimidating, Jumbo Laces are surprisingly versatile:

• The black colorway works for both day and night wears.
• Pair with jeans, leggings, skirts, dresses – the shoes complement most outfits.
• Run weekend errands, gallery hop, or bar hop – Jumbo Laces suit casual settings.
• The height boosts your overall silhouette, so saves you from wearing heels!
• Reviewers say they deliver hours of comfort for extended wear, even for travel days.

Jumbo Laces slot in seamlessly with casual chic daywear or amped up nighttime looks. They’re comfortable for everything from brunch to the mosh pit!

Expect A Firm, Heavy Feel At First Until The Soles Softens Up

The Jumbo Lace’s exaggerated midsole does require some break-in time:

• Reviewers describe the feel as dense and substantial at first.
• The chunky sole makes them heavier than typical sneakers, weighing nearly 4 pounds.
• The leather upper fits snugly but molds to your feet with wear.
• The foam midsole softens up after several wears.
• By 2-3 weeks of regular rotations, most wearers report a perfectly comfortable fit.

Allow yourself at least 10-14 days to break them in before assessing comfort and fit. The extended sole becomes bouncier over time.

Jumbo Laces Uniquely Blend Avant-Garde Look with Wearable Comfort

In the end, Rick Owens flawlessly executes his vision with the Jumbo Lace design:

• The exaggerated proportions make them a walking sculpture.
• Distinct leather and laces flatter narrowed feet.
• A 5-inch sole delivers height without compromising comfort.
• The smooth cupsole provides an unexpectedly stable stride.
• A sleek monochrome palette reflects Rick’s moody aesthetic.

In short – the Jumbo Lace uniquely melds an avant-garde look with creative comfort for every day.

Owens brings his conceptual vision to life in the form of accessible footwear. The Jumbo Lace is a wearable work of art.

The Bottom Line – Well Worth The Investment For Owens Fans

The Rick Owens Jumbo Lace undoubtedly comes with a luxury price tag. But for fashion-forward sneaker lovers, the quality craftsmanship and unique style make them well worth the investment. Care for them properly and they’ll deliver years of head-turning fashion.

Just be mindful of sizing up, allowing for break-in time, and acting fast on new releases. For the Owens devotees with the means to splurge, they deliver on both form and function. The Jumbo Lace kicks take any outfit from mundane to marvelously avant-garde!