END. X SALOMON “DARK TRUFFLE”

Following on from “Sirocco” in 2022, END. and Salomon reunite with “Dark Truffle”: a collaboration inspired by foraging for the edible and delectable spores that grow on subterranean fungus. The footwear of choice is Salomon’s XT-6, a technical trail runner perfectly suited to the rugged woodland environment truffles are found in. 

Forming part of the genus Tuber, dark truffles are the fruiting body of subterranean fungus found in woodland areas typically in Southern Europe, known for having a symbiotic relationship with tree roots. They’re said to have been foraged and consumed for around 4000 years, representing a delicacy in the culinary world used to enhance fine-dining dishes through a rich, earthy and distinctive flavour. 

Channelling that, Salomon’s XT-6 is given a bespoke makeover inspired by dark truffles, their earthy hues featuring throughout the technical runner. The XT-6’s synthetic uppers take on a black base, which is paired with brown and off-white hues to references the marbling synonymous with dark truffles. The XT6’s Contragrip sole unit, meanwhile, features similar earthy tones of brown, green and beige, nodding to the woodland environment where truffles are foraged. To complete the collaborative look, the trail runner’s insole is printed with Salomon’s logo alongside the British retailer’s, set against a patterned backdrop of truffle marbling.  

To celebrate the collection’s launch, we invited chef and social media phenomenon, Laurent Dagenais, on a trip into the wilderness to forage for truffles, showcasing the XT-6 “Truffle” in its natural habitat.