Author: Sneaker Blogger

SummarySong for the Mute and Birkenstock launch an SS26 collaboration featuring four distinct archetypes, from paint-splattered suede to black pony hair.Available April 16, the collection reflects SFTM’s long-standing connection to the brand, offering versatile silhouettes that range from minimalist leather to expressive, grass-printed clogs.Australian label Song for the Mute and Birkenstock have unveiled an SS26 collaboration centered around four classic models. Instead of opting for a unified aesthetic, Song for the Mute takes an unconventional approach, designing the collection through the lenses of four distinct archetypes.For the Artist, the suede Birkenstock London silhouette is splattered with paint as if a painter had been wearing the mules in their studio all day. For the Rebel, the Birkenstock Paris is rendered in black pony hair, putting a Mary Jane-esque silhouette in an unexpected new makeup. For the Gardener, the Birkenstock Super Birki 2.0, much like a garden clog, gets a tan rubber body and grass-print insoles. Finally, for the Birkenstock Collector, SFTM opts for a minimalist vibe in the Birkenstock Amsterdam, streamlined in polished black leather and embossed with the Birkenstock wordmark.With a completely different silhouette and materiality for each model, SFTM has a Birkenstock for pretty much anyone: from minimalist to expressive, from clean to lived-in, and from colorful to monochromatic. To let the range speak for itself, SFTM branding is subdued and isolated to a custom metal rivet for the collaboration.In an exclusive statement for Hypebeast, Lyna Ty of SFTM shared, “We were drawn to collaborate with Birkenstock because of its rich heritage. The brand has an incredible history and a diverse product range; it was something we felt we could relate to.”Further, co-founder Melvin Tanaya added, “We have a special connection with the brand. We have been using Birkenstock in our lookbooks throughout the years. We even created specific fabrics for it, even if it was just for the lookbook. We also have been wearing different models for years; it was always a collaboration we had in mind from our very beginning in 2011.”The collection doesn’t stop at shoes; the footwear lineup is accompanied by a complementary apparel collection, including four jumpsuits/overalls designed for each archetypal exploration.Song for the Mute x Birkenstock will be available from April 16, 2026, at 1774.com and songforthemute.com, as well as selected retailers worldwide.Photo: Song for the Mute x Birkenstock/Frederic Horn

SummaryNew Balance has officially introduced the Maxey v1, the first signature sneaker for dynamic star guard Tyrese MaxeyThe low-top model is designed for speed and control, featuring wavy overlays, sculpted pod-like shapes, and responsive FuelCell cushioningThe debut black and light blue colorway is expected to release later this year with a retail price of $130 USDJust in time for the postseason spotlight, New Balance has officially unveiled the highly anticipated first signature sneaker for Tyrese Maxey. Dubbed the Maxey v1, the low-top silhouette gives the electric guard his own signature lane, perfectly capturing his energetic personality and lightning-fast game ahead of his pivotal Play-In appearance.The New Balance Maxey v1 introduces a bold, expressive design built fundamentally around movement, speed, and control. The debut iteration features a sharp black and light blue color-blocking scheme, highlighted by dynamic wavy overlays sweeping across the upper. Rounded, pod-like shapes wrap around the toe and midfoot to deliver a sculpted aesthetic, while a prominent midfoot “N” logo keeps the branding clean and iconic. Subtle personal touches, including “Maxey” lettering and a v1 tab on the tongue, officially mark the model’s debut.Under the hood, the sneaker is equipped with New Balance’s signature FuelCell cushioning system, providing the highly responsive setup required for Maxey’s quick, attacking playstyle. The construction also places a heavy emphasis on dynamic traction and lockdown ankle support—two critical areas for a guard who relies on explosive bursts, rapid changes of direction, and applying constant pressure off the dribble.

Name: MetaMount x Timberland 6-Inch BootColorway: Light Brown NB with Dark GreenSKU: A426AAFMMSRP: ¥33,000 JPY (approx. $210 USD)Release Date: April 17, April 20Where to Buy: Timberland Japan, Timberland TokyoTimberland and Chinese outdoor brand MetaMount have officially joined forces to deliver a collaborative take on the iconic 6-Inch Boot.Marking the first partnership between the two entities, the project seamlessly merges MetaMount’s distinct outdoor worldview with Timberland’s rugged heritage. The design leverages the classic 6-Inch Boot as its foundation, updating the beloved silhouette with a fresh, nature-focused aesthetic.The collaborative pair features visuals directly inspired by sweeping mountains and tranquil bamboo forests, adding a new layer of sensory depth to the utilitarian staple. While the visual language steps into new, imaginative territory, the boot strictly maintains its core functionality. Wearers can still expect the unwavering waterproof and weatherproof construction that has made the 6-Inch Boot a global icon, now perfectly updated with MetaMount’s fresh sensibilities.The MetaMount x Timberland 6-Inch Boot drops on April 17 via the Timberland Boutique Tokyo, followed by a wider release on April 20 via the brand’s official web store and select authorized retailers.