Month: July 2021

After the silhouette was unveiled through a Snow Peak collaboration, New Balance and its Tokyo Design Studio line have prepared two new Niobium Concept 2 colorways. The sandal and mule hybrid is heavily inspired by trail running, with a rugged aesthetic complemented by the asymmetric sole unit and a Vibram outsole.The silhouette now arrives in two colorways for the “Water and Dirt Trail” pack, inspired by dirt tracks and lakes you might discover while hiking. The water-inspired colorway comes in a dark “Indigo” tone, which is offset by green detailing on the footbed and strap. For the dirt design, New Balance Tokyo Design Studio has dressed the shoe in a light brown “Incense” color, surrounded by hits of “Chocolate Brown.” Other details across the shoes — including geometric patterned webbing — is inspired by vintage outdoors garments. Both colorways feature an upper constructed using breathable mesh and synthetic leather, while the sole unit is taken from the Fresh Foam Hierro running sneaker.Take a look at the “Water and Dirt Trail” pack in the gallery above, and expect the two Tokyo Design Studio sneakers to arrive at the New Balance web store on July 9. The two colorways will be priced at $199 USD. THe capsule will release in Europe on July 23. View this post on InstagramA post shared by newbalance_t_house (@newbalance_t_house)In other footwear news, New Balance is preparing an archival 990v2 “MADE 990 Version Series” release.

Mizuno has revealed a collaboration with Parisian retailer Shinzo, taking inspiration from the legacy of sport, performance and ’90s culture. Featuring the Contender silhouette, the two labels have looked at their respective hometowns of Paris and Tokyo to create a multi-layered sneaker that mixes French and Japanese influences.The sneaker features a corduroy upper inspired by Paris, nodding to its subway, freestones and architecture. This upper, however, can be cut away to reveal a second skin hiding below. This layer is constructed from canvas and celebrates the Japanese cherry blossom season through an all-over pattern. Wearers can choose whether to let the upper layer wear out, revealing the cherry blossom over time, or they can use their own creative instincts to combine the two worlds.Take a look at the shoe in both of its states in the gallery above. Mizuno and Shinzo have also created a video showing people how they can customize the shoe and reveal the hidden layer. Additionally, a leaflet comes with each pair, explaining the do’s and don’ts. The Mizuno x Shinzo Contender is due to release in the near future. View this post on InstagramA post shared by SHINZO Paris (@shinzo_paris)In other footwear news, HYPEBEAST editors recently discussed the sneakers they wore most in the first half of 2021.

Converse has unveiled a capsule of Chuck 70 designs in anticipation of Space Jam: A New Legacy’s impending release. The new pack — unrelated to Converse Japan’s recent release — pays tribute to the various members of Tune Squad, including their newest high-profile recruit.The first take on the Chuck 70 high features an all-black upper, acting as a base to images of Bugs, Lola, Daffy, Marvin the Martian and Taz. Rounding out the Tune Squad-themed design is a light blue lining and orange detailing on the Converse branding and tongue tab.Whereas that sneaker is a tribute to the Tune Squad’s returning players, the second Chuck 70 colorway has been designed for the team’s new member, LeBron James. The shoe’s upper is covered in the Looney Tunes rings, expanding from the Converse patch, while the lateral side of each shoe also features eye-catching 3D branding for the Tune Squad and James’ number 6 uniform.Take a look at the “New Legacy” pack from Converse and Space Jam in the gallery above. The capsule is due to release via the Nike web store on July 16, the same day as the movie hits theaters.In other Converse news, Issa Rae recently launched a new Converse By You collection.