Mercer

The Mercer Brand: premium sneakers from Amsterdam with an American vintage aesthetic

The Mercer Brand is a footwear and apparel label founded in Amsterdam in 2013 by Pim Dresen. It starts from a clear idea: creating sneakers and clothing inspired by vintage American sportswear, developed with a contemporary approach to materials, comfort and sustainability.

Previously known as Mercer Amsterdam, the brand specialises in sneaker silhouettes designed in-house, from soles to laces. Models such as The Re-Run capture its language: retro-inspired sneakers, panelled construction, mixed materials and a premium feel for everyday use.

At ECRU we select The Mercer Brand for its balance of design, comfort and material responsibility. It suits those seeking sneakers with presence, without an excessively technical or overly conspicuous aesthetic.

The identity of The Mercer Brand

The Mercer Brand draws on a specific mix of references: high-end sportswear, sneaker culture, European design and a relaxed American aesthetic. Its sneakers have a vintage feel without trying to reproduce the past literally.

The result is moderately voluminous silhouettes, substantial soles, panels of suede, mesh, leather or alternative materials, and construction that considers both design and the impact of the materials used.

Depending on the model, the brand incorporates materials certified to standards such as the Global Recycled Standard, PETA-approved vegan options, plant-based alternatives and leather meeting standards such as those of the Leather Working Group.

The Mercer Brand sneakers at ECRU

ECRU’s The Mercer Brand selection focuses on sneakers with a retro-runner, sporty and premium casual aesthetic. Models such as The Re-Run, The Re-Run Vintage Suede and The Re-Run Vibram combine running-inspired design, recycled materials and construction details for daily wear.

These sneakers work with denim, wide trousers, technical clothing, understated sweatshirts and lightweight jackets. Their value lies in adding texture, volume and a sporty feel without losing restraint.

The Mercer Brand fits particularly well in a contemporary wardrobe that combines comfortable footwear, relaxed clothing and a considered aesthetic, between purely minimalist sneakers and visual excess.

Materials, sustainability and construction

Materials are a pillar of The Mercer Brand. Many models use certified recycled components, recycled mesh, recycled suede, recycled rubber, recycled insoles and plant-based alternatives derived from cactus, pineapple or grapes, depending on the collection.

This approach does not diminish design’s importance. Instead, sustainability becomes part of a recognisable aesthetic: layered sneakers, characterful soles, vintage finishes and construction intended to maintain a premium look.

In some models the brand also uses technical soles or specific development collaborations, such as versions with Vibram, where functionality and grip are part of the design.

How to style The Mercer Brand

• Pair The Re-Run with straight-leg denim, a cotton T-shirt and a lightweight jacket for a retro-inspired casual look.
• Wear versions with more technical soles with cargo trousers, nylon pieces or urban outdoor clothing.
• Suede and mesh sneakers work with wide trousers, plain sweatshirts and overshirts.
• For an understated outfit, wear them with neutral clothing and let the sneaker’s mixed materials provide the main detail.
• For a more premium feel, combine them with cotton trousers, lightweight knitwear and a structured jacket.

Why buy The Mercer Brand

The Mercer Brand suits those seeking retro sneakers with carefully chosen materials and more interesting construction than a basic trainer. Its models go beyond the logo, treating volume, layers, texture and the sole as essential design elements.

Compared with more mainstream sneaker brands, Mercer offers a more selective, contemporary perspective. Its sneakers have presence while remaining easy to wear daily.

Buying The Mercer Brand at ECRU means choosing an Amsterdam label with its own identity, focused on premium sneakers, sportswear, recycled materials and an American vintage aesthetic reinterpreted from Europe.

Frequently asked questions about The Mercer Brand

What kind of brand is The Mercer Brand?

The Mercer Brand is a footwear and apparel brand founded in Amsterdam, specialising in premium sneakers with sportswear influences, an American vintage aesthetic and a focus on more responsible materials.

Who founded The Mercer Brand?

The brand was founded in 2013 by Pim Dresen. It was previously known as Mercer Amsterdam.

What sneakers does The Mercer Brand make?

The brand makes retro-runner-inspired sneakers, sporty designs, vegan models, recycled-material versions and silhouettes with more prominent soles.

Does The Mercer Brand use recycled materials?

Yes. Many models incorporate certified recycled materials, including recycled mesh, suede, rubber and insoles, or components developed to standards such as the Global Recycled Standard.

How do The Mercer Brand sneakers fit?

The brand recommends measuring your longer foot and adding 0.5–1 cm depending on the desired fit. Then compare that measurement with the model’s size guide.

What clothes pair well with Mercer sneakers?

They work with denim, straight-leg trousers, cargos, technical clothing, sweatshirts, understated T-shirts, overshirts and lightweight jackets. They are easy to incorporate into casual outfits with a premium feel.