Northampton and shoemaking have gone hand-in-hand for centuries. Now, former Saints player Ian White is honouring that proud tradition by launching a brand-new range of bespoke trainers in partnership with the Club – with proceeds going to support the Benevolent Fund.
The son of legendary Saint Don White, Ian has designed a unique pair of trainers featuring the Club’s iconic Black, Green and Gold colours, emblem, and the now-famous ‘Shoe Army’ slogan.
Don White – Saint #1028 and a Hall-of-Fame inductee – was not only a world-class rugby player, making 448 appearances in a Saints shirt (the second-highest in Club history), but also a third-generation Northampton shoemaker.
Following in his father's footsteps both on and off the pitch, Ian represented Northampton 170 times throughout the 1980s before moving to California in 1990 to found T.U.K. Shoes.
Now, Ian’s connection with the Club deepens once again. A limited run of 100 pairs of exclusive Saints Trainers, created in collaboration with Saint #1483, is available now exclusively from the Saints Store HERE.
Each pair is priced at £80, with £30 from every sale going directly to the Club’s Benevolent Fund.
Launched in 2022, the Fund offers direct support to current and former players, staff members, and their immediate families in times of hardship.
“Ian approached us some time ago with the idea of designing a Saints shoe, and we’re thrilled to finally bring it to life,” said Paul Shields, Chair of the Benevolent Fund.
“The ‘Shoe Army’ slogan has become a meaningful part of the Club’s identity over recent seasons, celebrating Northampton’s deep roots in the footwear industry.”
Paul Shields, Benevolent Fund Chair
“We’re incredibly grateful to Ian for his generosity and for staying connected to the Club in such a meaningful way. Not only are these trainers a brilliant tribute to our history, but they’ll also raise vital funds for a fantastic cause.
“I’ve no doubt we’ll be seeing them worn proudly around cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens for years to come.”
Ian White, Saint #1483, added: “My father was both a third-generation shoemaker and a Saint, so shoes and rugby have always been a part of my life.
“Among his many achievements, Don was the first rugby player to have a signature boot – getting special permission from the RFU to wear ‘The Don International’. While it wasn’t a commercial hit, it was the beginning of branded boots in the sport.
“I’m proud to play a small part in continuing that tradition with the very first Saints Trainer.
“Designed to celebrate today’s generation of players, the trainer also supports another great legacy of the Club – by helping the Benevolent Fund and keeping the spirit of that original boys’ improvement class from 1880 alive.”
The Saints Trainer is available exclusively online via the Saints Store in UK sizes 5 to 12 for £80 HERE, with £30 from each pair donated directly to the Club’s Benevolent Fund.
