Welcome to Sneaker News #90. It’s a jam-packed week led by one of New Balance‘s most innovative silhouettes to date, the WRPD Runner. We also have Billie Eilish and Nike teaming up once again to revive an almost forgotten sneaker and Pharrell adding his magic touch to the adidas Samba. The return of the Nike Air Force 1 ‘West Indies’ is also upon us while New Balance delivers a classic with new 480 colourways. Check all that out and more below.
New Balance WRPD Runner
Blending oversized proportions with minimalist elegance, the WRPD Runner’s distinct conceptual design is an eye-catcher. This innovative silhouette evokes fluid motion, with a sculpted full-length FuelCell midsole and an understated knit upper enveloped by wavy accents. Heritage elements are interwoven into the new design, creating an intricate fusion. The WRPD Runner stands as a familiar yet boundary-pushing style fixture, exploring the outer regions of classic running inspiration. Details include an embroidered ‘N’ logo, medial stability post, and sculpted, wavy outsole tread pattern, all nestled within a knit, synthetic, and wool blend mesh upper. Head to Subtype to grab a pair.
Nike V2K Run ‘Summit White & Metallic Silver’
The Nike V2K Run steps into the future while also looking nostalgically into the past. Channelling early noughties running vibes, these sneakers infuse retro into modernity. The layered upper showcases a captivating mix of materials, while the chunky heel and dual-density midsole look great on the feet. Crossing the finish line, gleaming Metallic Silver details contrast the weathered Alabaster midsole, embodying your knack for merging worlds. This is a fusion of eras, as the V2K Run encapsulates the spirit of nostalgia and innovation in one stride. Head to Nike to buy on August 25th.
Nike Air Force 1 ‘West Indies’
The West Indies’ Air Force 1 Low is an emblem of a golden era for Nike Air Force 1. Originally introduced in 2002 as part of a quartet commemorating NYC’s West Indian Day Parade Carnival, the ‘West Indies’ Air Force 1 reemerges in a nearly identical replication of the original. Dominantly adorned in white, it tastefully integrates classic green accents on the tongue, heel tabs, lining, and outsole. The insignia ‘West Indies’ graces the dubraes, heel, and slightly adjusted tongue, symbolising not only the shoe’s 20th-anniversary celebration but also honouring the 40-year legacy of the model itself. Head to Nike for your chance to cop on August 25th.
Nike Air Max 1 ‘Bronze’
Throughout the history of sneakers, Bronze is a colour that has embodied timelessness. The Air Max 1 ‘Bronze’ seamlessly merges its cross-era charm with a classic design, a perfect match for any ensemble. Standing out against white and Light Orewood Brown accents, this historically rooted hue (harking back to the Bronze Age) brings perennial sunny vibes, season after season. The shoe’s crisp suede and light textiles provide a refined finishing touch. Revel in the luminous aura and embrace the timeless elegance of the Air Max 1 ‘Bronze,’ where each stride radiates an enduring glow. Nike will have these available from August 18th.
Nike x Billie Eilish Air Alpha Force 88 ‘Fire Red’
Nike and Billie Eilish have been hunting in the archives to pull out a silhouette that hasn’t had its moment in a while. The Nike Air Alpha Force is returning from obscurity thanks to Eilish. This silhouette shares a subtle link to MJ’s NBA days as one of his rare non-Jordan choices. Set to resurface is an almost identical Billie Eilish version, trading university red for a fiery red. The shoe preserves its perforated leather details, black Nike-branded lockdown strap, and red accents. Tongue branding and a co-branded insole logo fuse Eilish and The Swoosh. White leather, tonal stitching, and a white, fire red, neutral grey rubber midsole and outsole complete the revival, blending history with innovation. Subtype has these available for purchase right now.
adidas Human Race Samba
Pharrell may be Louis Vuitton’s new Creative Director, but his partnership with adidas continues. After the triumph of the ‘Colors By Pharrell’ collection, he’s delivered a triple Samba Humanrace drop. First previewed at the exclusive Samba Cafe during Paris Fashion Week, the ‘Humanrace Samba Tones’ pack showcases the indoor classic in new monochromatic shades. The trio’s ‘Terracotta’, ‘Charcoal’, and ‘White’ hues give a distinctive muted feel. The construction you know and love from the Samba remains, meticulously crafted from premium and sustainable ECCO leather. Head to adidas for your chance to cop now.
New Balance 480
Reviving the essence of the original BB680, donned by professional athletes, the New Balance 480 emerges as a timeless classic in a sleek, uncluttered design. This silhouette marries leather with an Ortholite insert, guaranteeing enduring comfort and stability throughout the day. Noteworthy features include an adjustable lace closure, ensuring a tailored fit. The leather upper embodies durability and sporty elegance. Meanwhile, the rubber outsole provides both traction and longevity. The Ortholite insert amplifies comfort and moisture management. With a Flextended saddle and robust heel counter, stability is a given. New Balance currently has the release date set as August 18th.
