Since its founding in 1993, Jun Takahashi’s UNDERCOVER has constantly delivered a functional approach to utilitarian apparel rich in fabric manipulations and Japanese cultural motifs. In addition, the designer often taps into the world of footwear, debuting his first collaboration with Nike over a decade ago. The identifiable GYAKUSOU line is grounded in practical athleticwear and has seen a variety of reimagined performance silhouettes, from the Zoom Vaporfly 4% to the Zoom Pegasus Turbo.
UNDERCOVER and Nike introduced their first mainline collaboration during the Spring/Summer 2019 season, promoting seven joint colorways of the Daybreak running sneaker. Ever since, the duo have launched a multitude of kicks, including collaborative Nike OverBreak SPs, Dunk High 1985s and more.
First seen in UNDERCOVER’s SS22 collection, the creative partnership continues with an innovative release to keep your eyes on. The sneaker combines the classic Air Force 1 Low and ACG’s 1992 Air Revaderchi. Presented in three colorway options, the Air Force 1’s tonal leather design is maintained, while exposed GORE-TEX collars see waterproof material that runs through the interior for increased functionality while in motion. Tinted heel guards are taken from the Air Revaderchi and bleed onto the top eyestays with a built-in strap to keep things secure.
Rubber tongue badges don collaborative branding, while black GORE-TEX badges cling to the forefoot for visible representation. As seen on previous projects, UNDERCOVER’s recognizable “Chaos” and “Balance” text is engraved on metal lace dubraes, acting as a clear nod to the designer.
Arriving in all-black, all-white, and a more vibrant "black/white/purple" rendition, a pre-release for the hybrid sneaker will take place on October 8 via UNDERCOVER’s website and select physical retail shops. A wider launch will occur in the coming weeks.
In other footwear news, Aimé Leon Dore unveils its next batch of New Balance 650R collaborations.
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