brand
A.S.98
A.S.98 is an Italian footwear and accessories brand characterized by a rugged, artisanal aesthetic. It represents a subculture of industrial grunge and bohemian rebellion. The brand utilizes distressed leathers and heavy metal hardware to create a distinct, weathered appearance centered on raw craftsmanship.
History
Founded by Piero Oliosi in Colà di Lazise, Italy, the brand originated under the parent company Olip Italia S.p.A. in the late twentieth century. Originally known as Airstep, it rebranded to A.S.98 to emphasize its heritage and contemporary identity. The brand is historically significant for integrating traditional Italian vegetable tanning techniques with avant-garde, distressed finishes. It occupies a specific niche in footwear history by prioritizing textured, hand-finished materials over polished commercial standards.
