Parkour shoes

Parkour shoes
The puma concepts

The Glyph

Design/Concept by Jamie (Biomech) O’Rourke
The Glyph logo is a registered trademark of Urban Freeflow

The Parkour/Freerun glyph has become globally recognised as the one symbol to represent both disciplines and in a very short amount of time, has received unprecedented exposure worldwide. Here’s a breakdown as to what it all means….
Based on Eastern symbology and inspired by ancient and fictional hieroglyphics, the Parkour/Freerun glyph depicts balance, equality, stability, control and simplicity. Also employing Hindu and Taoist beliefs, the Parkour/Freerun glyph characterises four segments, or stages that are used to represent the four seasons and the transition from awakening, through self improvement and proficiency, to self awareness.

Initially divided vertically into two halves to denote height and ambition, the glyph can be seen to represent the two divisions of Freerun/Parkour; technical ability and philosophy.
Representing ability (1), we envisage a traceur or freerunner as they make their way over an obstacle in their path. Succeeding ability comes self awareness (2). Denoting this we see the sun as it rises beginning a new day.

The Glyph can be further divided as follows…
A. (Spring) Representing the birth of a traceur/freerunner as they discover the art of movement.
B. (Summer) Depicted by the sun, the practitioner grows both physically and mentally as they begin to find their ‘way’.
C. (Autumn) Symbolised by linear water. The practitioners abilities increase and movements begin to flow, whilst always remaining 100% focused at all times.
D. (Winter) The practitioner reaches a certain level of proficiency in the search of perfection and as the cold weather looms, a period of reflection is entered before the start of a new cycle.