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adidas Silver Samba x Wales Bonner | Image: Up There Store

Sneaker News #85 – Wales Bonner Gives adidas’ Samba a Shiny Makeover


Welcome to Sneaker News #85. There’s a flashy headliner this week with adidas teaming up with Wales Bonner once again to give the Samba a metallic silver makeover. The future is the brief for other releases this week too with Nike collaborating with MMW for a slick-looking slide while ON continues to up the ante in footwear technology with the Cloudmonster Sensa. Elsewhere, there are a couple of noteworthy Jordan releases and a Nike x ACG water shoe that can do it all. Check it all out plus more below.

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adidas Silver Samba x Wales Bonner | Image: Up There Store

adidas Silver Samba x Wales Bonner | Image: Up There Store

adidas Silver Samba x Wales Bonner

adidas and Grace Wales Bonner continue to push the boundaries of collaboration with this latest collection, delving deeper into Bonner’s passion for African heritage. Drawing inspiration from the rich roots that have fuelled her previous creations, Bonner breathes new life into classic silhouettes she knows intimately. In a captivating nod to Burkina Faso’s culture in West Africa, this collection explores ’70s and ’80s music and photography. The canvas is adidas’ Samba silhouette, shining in a striking silver hue reminiscent of gleaming steel drums. Chrome reflective leathers act as a mirror to the world outside, while delicate crocheted details on the iconic stripes soften the cool material choice. Join the raffle at Up There now for your chance to own this highly sought-after collab.

Buy adidas Silver Samba x Wales Bonner at Up There

Nike 005 Slide x MMW 'Dark Khaki' | Image: Nike

Nike 005 Slide x MMW ‘Dark Khaki’ | Image: Nike

Nike 005 Slide x MMW ‘Dark Khaki’

Okay, this isn’t exactly a sneaker but it’s too sleek to leave out of this list. Step into a new era of fashion with slides designed by Matthew M. Williams, founder of 1017 ALYX 9SM. The 005 Slide x MMW combines his US and European influences with cutting-edge innovation. Its dual-foam outsole features a stability plate for meditative comfort, while the perforated foam upper expels heat, keeping your feet cool. With drainage holes for dryness and a convenient carrying bag for your next adventure, these slides are perfect for any terrain or adventure. Head to Nike on June 9 for your chance to cop.

Buy Nike 005 Slide x MMW ‘Dark Khaki’at Nike

Nike Air Jordan 2 "H" Wings | Image: Nike

Nike Air Jordan 2 “H” Wings | Image: Nike

Nike Air Jordan 2 “H” Wings

Paying homage to the legendary Howard “H” White, the latest Jordan 2 feels like an integral release. This year’s Jordan Brand Wings shoe celebrates White’s profound contributions to the brand and community foundations. Crafted to the original 1987 specifications, the AJ2 silhouette holds a special place in White’s heart, and this edition encapsulates his spirit perfectly. There are plenty of details to feast your eyes on here. A hand-sketched, Wings-inspired quarter panel showcases artistic brilliance, while a translucent heel counter, adorned with a gold foil “H” logo, is a flashy touch. The laces display the words “POWER” and “BELIEF,” infusing each step with White’s remarkable energy. Nike will drop these on June 10.

Buy Nike Air Jordan 2 “H” Wings at Nike

Nike ACG Watercat+ 'Phantom' | Image: Nike

Nike ACG Watercat+ ‘Phantom’ | Image: Nike

Nike ACG Watercat+ ‘Phantom’

The Watercat+ sneakers are designed for aquatic adventure. These feline-inspired shoes are not afraid to make a splash, as they take you from the water to the dry land effortlessly. The minimalist upper features non-wicking cords that provide lightweight breathability, perfect for those who prefer to spend more time in the water than on land. There’s also an enhanced quick-entry lacing system from the original design, ensuring a snug fit. The shoe’s structure and fit have been refined too, allowing you to navigate underwater terrain. The mixed-rubber outsole, equipped with undulating lugs, delivers impressive grip, giving you the traction you need even in the slipperiest conditions. Catch a pair from Nike on June 12.

Buy Nike ACG Watercat+ ‘Phantom’ at Nike

ON Cloudmonster Sensa | Image: Subtype

ON Cloudmonster Sensa | Image: Subtype

ON Cloudmonster Sensa

ON continues to leap forward with innovative footwear, launching the Cloudmonster Sensa. This shoe combines fit, aesthetics, and performance in an unparalleled way, accompanied by a slightly futuristic silhouette. The 3D haptic mesh, lace shroud, braille detailing, and unique sockliner create a fit like no other. With a mesh and textile upper, rubber sole, and adjustable front drawcord closure, durability and style are guaranteed. The cushioned collar and extra Helion foam provide comfort, while the CloudTec sole with larger clouds ensures soft footfalls and superior traction. Head to Subtype right now to make these yours.

Buy ON Cloudmonster Sensa at Subtype

Nike Air Jordan 2 Retro Low 'White/Cherrywood Red' | Image: Highs and Lows

Nike Air Jordan 2 Retro Low ‘White/Cherrywood Red’ | Image: Highs and Lows

Nike Air Jordan 2 Retro Low ‘White/Cherrywood Red’

The Nike Air Jordan 2 has over 30 years of legacy and yet it’s still fresh today. The AJ2, making its debut in 1986, stood as the sleek and refined younger sibling to its iconic predecessor, the AJ1. The two are still on plenty of feet in 2023 and this latest release will only further its popularity. Crafted with premium leather and featuring an Air-Sole unit underfoot, it’s a throwback silhouette that looks incredibly relevant. Nike’s Air technology ensures cushioning and impact absorption with every step. The leather upper not only breaks in easily but also guarantees a durable shoe that stands the test of time. Completing the package is a rubber outsole, providing traction and durability. Enter the raffle for your chance to cop at Highs and Lows now.

Buy Nike Air Jordan 2 Retro Low at Highs and Lows

Made in USA 998 'Marblehead with Vintage Indigo' | Image: New Balance

Made in USA 998 ‘Marblehead with Vintage Indigo’ | Image: New Balance

Made in USA 998 ‘Marblehead with Vintage Indigo’

One of New Balance’s most timeless shoes the Made in USA 998 gets a new colourway. Originally released in 1993, the 998 was the first shoe to feature the revolutionary ABZORB cushioning. The MADE in USA 998 combines a sleek update to the classic 99X series look with a special-edition Grey Day colourway and a premium pigskin hairy suede and upper mesh construction. With an adjustable lace closure and a domestic value of 70 per cent or more, the MADE in USA 998 represents New Balance’s quality craftsmanship. June 8 is when you need to keep your eye on New Balance.

Buy Made in USA 998 ‘Marblehead with Vintage Indigo’ at New Balance