Slab Contrasted Ihko 5 is a very bold, normal width, medium contrast, italic, tall x-height font visually similar to 'Clavo' by Dada Studio, 'FF Milo Slab' by FontFont, 'Obla' by LetterPalette, and 'Adagio Slab' by Machalski (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: headlines, posters, branding, sports identity, packaging, retro, athletic, confident, editorial, playful, impact, motion, approachability, nostalgia, emphasis, slab serifs, rounded forms, bracketed serifs, soft corners, compact counters.
A heavy, slanted slab-serif design with chunky, bracketed serifs and softly rounded joins that keep the forms from feeling rigid. Strokes are broadly even with visible thick–thin modulation, and the overall texture is dark and assertive. The lowercase shows a prominent x-height and large, open bowls, while the numerals and capitals maintain sturdy proportions and a slightly bouncy rhythm created by the italic angle and varying interior shapes. Terminals are blunt and decisive, with curved transitions that give the slabs a molded, almost rubber-stamp solidity.
Best used for display typography such as headlines, posters, and brand marks where impact and personality matter. It also fits sports-leaning identities, promotional materials, and packaging that benefits from a bold, energetic voice. For longer text, it works most convincingly in short bursts—subheads, pull quotes, or emphatic callouts—where its dense texture remains an asset.
The font projects a retro, sporty energy—confident and friendly rather than severe. Its bold, slanted stance suggests motion and emphasis, making it feel suited to headlines that want warmth and punch at the same time.
The design appears intended to merge classic slab-serif sturdiness with an italic, energetic posture for attention-grabbing display use. Its softened shapes and rounded transitions suggest an aim for approachability while retaining a strong, promotional presence.
In paragraph-like settings it creates a strong, high-ink color and a lively cadence, especially where rounded counters (o, e) contrast with blocky slabs on stems. The italic slant is consistent and readable, but the weight and pronounced serifs make it most comfortable when given generous spacing and used at display sizes.