F-4 Phantom "Pardo's Push" Low Top Canvas Shoes
This design is based on F-4 Phantom II ‘Cheetah 03’ (Serial 64-0839) flown by then Captain “Bob” Pardo when he performed what would be known as “Pardo’s push”.
Pardo's Push was an aviation manoeuvre carried out by then Captain (Lt Col USAF Ret) John R. "Bob" Pardo, USAF in order to move his wingman's badly damaged F-4 Phantom II to friendly air space during the Vietnam War
On March 10, 1967, Captain Bob Pardo and his WSO Steve Wayne flying in ‘Cheetah 03’ (Serial 64-0839), alongside his wingman Captain Earl Aman and his WSO Robert W Houghton in ‘Cheetah 04’ (Serial 63-7653) were on a mission to attack a steel mill in North Vietnam near Hanoi.
During the bombing run both of their F-4 Phantom II aircraft were hit by anti-aircraft fire, with Aman's plane sustaining severe damage to its fuel tank. Realizing they didn't have enough fuel to reach a tanker aircraft over Laos, they faced the possibility of bailing out over hostile territory.
To avoid this, Pardo attempted to push Aman's damaged aircraft by pressing the windscreen of ‘Cheetah 03’ (Pardo’s aircraft) against the lowered tailhook of ‘Cheetah 04’ (Aman’s aircraft). Despite challenges like turbulence and a fire in one of Pardo's engines, they managed to reduce the rate of descent using this method. With limited fuel, they crossed into Laotian airspace and ejected, successfully evading capture. Initially reprimanded, they were later awarded the Silver Star for their heroic manoeuvre in 1989.
This design also carries one red star victory marking to represent the MiG kill Captain Richard “Dick” Pascoe and Captain Norman Wells achieved on Jan 6th, 1967 in this same aircraft.
Product Details
Product Details | Canvas Shoes
Step into history with our warbird themed canvas shoes! Each pair of shoes are made to order, featuring designs inspired by history’s most remarkable military aircraft and aviators. So, whether you are a warbird buff, air show fanatic or simply a lover of aviation, you can be certain our designs will bring a touch of style and history to your everyday wardrobe.
✈ Made to order.
✈ Classic lace-up closure to achieve the perfect fit.
✈ Brushed metal eyelets for that timeless style.
✈ Soft inner lining and insole for absolute comfort.
✈ Iconic rounded rubber toe cap.
Production & Shipping
Manufacturing | Canvas Shoes
Production & Shipping times can be found here.
Made to Order
This product is made to order with production beginning once your order has been received. We are, therefore, not able to cancel or amend an order once it has been placed. This includes changes to the shipping address, size, design, or any other specifications. Please review your order details carefully before finalising your purchase.
By producing items on demand rather than in large quantities, we actively contribute to minimising overproduction and waste. We genuinely appreciate your mindful purchasing choices, which support this more sustainable approach. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Colour and Design Variations
Minor variations in colour and design placement may occur during production. As a result, some design elements may differ slightly in colour or position from it appears onscreen. For more details please see our FAQ page.
Fulfilment and Product Origin
This product is manufactured in and shipped from China.
Lead times: 95% of all shoe orders arrive within 14 business days of the order date.
Care Instructions
Care Instructions | Canvas Shoes
Before You Begin
Insert shoe trees or stuff the shoes with newspaper to help them maintain their shape while cleaning.
Hand wash only.
Do not clean your shoes in a washing machine.
What You’ll Need
* Liquid laundry detergent
* Warm water
* Soft-bristled brush or toothbrush
* Sponge or soft cloth
* Clean, damp cloth
* Shoe trees or newspaper
1. Remove Laces and Brush Away Dirt
Remove the laces and brush away any loose dirt using a dry toothbrush or soft-bristled brush. You can also remove the insoles if you are concerned about them getting wet.
2. Pre-Treat Stains
Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent directly to any stains and leave it for at least 15 minutes before cleaning.
3. Wash the Shoes
Mix a small amount of liquid laundry detergent with warm water. Dip a sponge or soft cloth into the solution and gently clean the shoes by hand.
NB: Avoid scrubbing the foxing tape, which is the decorative white or black trim around the sole, as excessive rubbing may damage or remove the finish. If the foxing is dirty, gently wipe the area with a damp cloth.
4. Rinse and Dry
Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any detergent and soapy residue. Allow the shoes to air dry completely before wearing them.
5. Clean the Laces
Soak the laces in the detergent solution, rinse thoroughly, and allow them to dry completely before re-lacing the shoes.
Refunds & Returns
Our Returns & Refund Policy and Apparel Size Guarantees and can be found here.