Tom Gould’s Documentary Marks Half a Century of Timberland’s Yellow Boot
BY Dwayne Johanes
For half a century, Timberland’s Yellow Boot has stood tall as a symbol of fashion, functionality, and cultural significance. Originally crafted in 1973 as a rugged leather work boot designed to brave New England’s unforgiving weather, it swiftly transcended its utilitarian origins, becoming an adored icon of the 1980s. Communities worldwide embraced the honey-colored boot with its rounded toe, distinctive yellow laces, and sturdy rubber outsole, solidifying Timberland’s legendary status.
This remarkable half-century journey and the cultural phenomenon of the Timberland Yellow Boot have been meticulously chronicled by New Zealand filmmaker Tom Gould. In his 47-minute documentary, “This is Not a Boot: The Story of an Icon,” Gould skillfully weaves together an intricate tapestry of archival footage and enlightening interviews with influential figures who have played a pivotal role in the epic narrative of this iconic footwear.
Known by various endearing nicknames such as “Yellow Boots,” “Tims,” “Construct,” “’61s,” and “Butters,” the Timberland boot has earned a multitude of monikers, each with its own unique tale. Gould’s documentary stands as a heartfelt homage to this footwear marvel. With a distinctive style that blends ultra-creative, modern, and dynamic visuals, the director traces the boot’s humble beginnings to its unexpected rise to popularity among New York hip-hop artists, British rave enthusiasts, and Japanese streetwear connoisseurs.
Gould grants viewers exclusive access to interviews with iconic figures in urban culture. The roster includes designers Jeff Staple and Takayuki Ohashi, radio personality Angie Martinez (known as “The Voice of New York”), entrepreneur Ronnie Fieg, rappers ASAP Ferg, Rakim, Fat Joe, and J-Ax, legendary DJ Goldie, current star stylist Veneda Carter, and Paninaro phenomenon expert Bircide, among others. These interviews are complemented by never-before-seen archival footage featuring Nathan Swartz, the son and grandson of Timberland’s founder.
Expressing his lifelong admiration for Timberland and the privilege of directing the film, Tom Gould stated, “I’ve been a die-hard Timberland fan since I was a kid, so being asked to create this film celebrating the brand’s 50th anniversary was completely surreal! Meeting all these incredible cultural figures, each with a very personal and emotional connection to the boot, was the most rewarding part. Sharing their unique stories and tracing the journey of the Yellow Boot from its inception to the present day was an exciting challenge. The film’s title, ‘This is Not a Boot: The Story of an Icon,’ couldn’t be more apt.”
Today, the legacy of the Timberland boot endures, marked by innovative designs and imaginative collaborations. The Timberland saga continues, with Gould’s documentary shedding light on the brand’s commitment to sustainable development and its future ventures. This story serves as a testament to the enduring appeal and lasting influence of the Timberland Yellow Boot—an iconic footwear that has made an indelible mark on fashion and culture over the past five decades.
