PORFOT
Porfot is a curated clothing boutique in Rotterdam, where workwear, streetwear, and timeless style come together. Founded and opened by Dustin Kraay in January 2025, Porfot is a destination for those who appreciate quality, precision and timeless aesthetics.
Porfot offers a range of Solovair Classic collection Goodyear welted footwear including the 6 Eye Astronaut Boot, Monkey Boot, 3 Eye Gibson Shoe and Tassel Loafer.
SSG: Please can you tell us a little about yourself?
DK: My name is Dustin, 35 years old, born and raised in Rotterdam. I grew up in Hoogvliet, a suburb that's a blend of grit and charm—a melting pot of cultures and subcultures. This diversity shaped my perspective and fueled my curiosity about different stories and backgrounds. My musical tastes are eclectic, ranging from hip-hop and indie to punk, folk, hardcore, dub and whatnot.
Academically, I took an unconventional path. At 16, I was captivated by the opening of Woei, a sneaker store in Rotterdam. Shortly after, I joined their team and spent 15 years immersed in the sneaker world. Over time, I took on the role of all-round manager, leading a small team as the store grew into a significant presence in the city.
SSG: When did you decide to launch your own retail store, and what was the defining moment?
DK: From my teenage years, exploring Rotterdam's boutique scene with my pocket money, I dreamed of owning my own store. Working at Woei was a dream come true, but as I matured, I found myself gravitating towards more classic footwear styles. This shift signaled that it was time to realize that long-held dream. I wanted to create a space that reflected my evolved tastes and offered something unique to the city.
SSG: How did you decide on the name Porfot, and can you tell us about the startup process?
DK: 'Porfot' is Surinamese slang for Rotterdam. While it carries a somewhat negative connotation—implying the city is rough around the edges—it also conveys a deep-rooted affection. It's the kind of place you might complain about but never want to leave. This duality resonated with me, capturing the essence of Rotterdam's raw yet endearing character.
Starting up involved finding the right location, curating a selection of brands that aligned with my vision, and creating an environment that felt both welcoming and distinctive. It was about building a space that celebrated authenticity and craftsmanship.
SSG: What was your inspiration for the store aesthetic?
DK: Porfot is located on the Nieuwe Binnenweg, officially the longest shopping street in the Netherlands. Each block offers a different vibe, but the street as a whole is vibrant and full of life—a true reflection of Rotterdam's spirit. I envisioned Porfot as a sanctuary amidst this hustle, a place where visitors could slow down and engage with the products thoughtfully. It's designed to be a 'Porfot bubble' where the focus is on quality, detail, and experience.
SSG: Can you introduce your team?
DK: At the moment, Porfot is a one-man operation. I handle everything from curation and sales to the day-to-day operations. It's a labor of love, and I'm deeply involved in every aspect of the store.
SSG: Tell us a little about your store and the brands you sell?
DK: At Porfot, the store’s aesthetic and curation are built around a blend of influences—from workwear and military heritage to terrace culture, streetwear, and contemporary design. The brands I carry reflect this mix of tradition and progression. Whether it’s the utilitarian strength of Alpha Industries, the laidback versatility of Bonne Suits, or the precision-crafted footwear from Danner and Kleman, each label contributes to a narrative of thoughtful, durable style. I also carry shoemakers like NPS Solovair and Vagabond, whose rich heritage is matched by a clean, forward-thinking approach. Labels like Universal Works and NNormal further deepen the collection with garments that balance craft and clarity. Everything in the store is selected with intention—for people who value quality, honesty, and quiet confidence in the way they dress.
SSG: What is your company ethos?
DK: Porfot stands for an honest, self-aware, and culturally infused approach to style. It embodies Rotterdam's energy—raw, unpolished, yet always genuine. With a healthy dose of self-deprecation and appreciation for the city's diverse cultures, Porfot positions itself alongside its customers, not above them.
It's a space for individuals refining their identities—a coming-of-age generation embracing maturity without abandoning their creative roots. We prioritize thoughtful choices and sustainable style over flashy logos and fleeting trends. Porfot believes in 'less, but better.'
SSG: Looking to the future, what are your hopes and aspirations for yourself and the store?
DK: I aim to provide Rotterdam with a space that not only offers a curated selection where everyone can find something they love but also introduces them to new pieces—be it clothing, footwear, or art—that they haven't encountered before. Through these interactions, I hope to build a lasting connection with the city and its people.
SSG: When and how did you first discover Solovair?
DK: I came across Solovair while delving into the history of English shoemaking. Their name surfaced early in my research, and I was drawn to their commitment to traditional craftsmanship and quality.
SSG: Favourite Solovair Style?
DK: The 3-Eye Gibson is a staple for me—timeless, versatile, and effortlessly stylish. Whether in Hi-Shine or Greasy leather, it complements any outfit and occasion. That said, as I expand Porfot's Solovair collection and explore new styles, the Monkey Boot has been catching my eye. It's growing on me, and I appreciate its unique character.
Porfot
Nieuwe Binnenweg 207A
3021 GB Rotterdam
@por.fot
