OFF-WHITE – Blue Collar
Virgil Abloh’s uber-trendy OFF-WHITE label still carries plenty of cache, even despite a Justin Bieber co-sign. It’s a brand not known for its trainers, but as part of the ‘Blue Collar’ collection, the label has two new sneaker styles launching this month.
The shoe is a fairly common low-top silhouette that sits atop a chunky midsole and textured outsole. One comes in a black marble effect while the other is white with perforated stripe detailing on the side. Most importantly, both have the tell-tale OFF-WHITE stripe branding to the heel.
Available at Farfetch, priced £273.
Nike Air Presto Ultra Flyknit
Originally released in 2000, the
Fast forward to today and
The main difference on first view is the mid-cut collar, which keeps attention on the sock. On closer inspection the upper also utilises
Other improvements include rubber details on high-contact wear areas, for increased durability. In our minds, it’s the best version of the Presto yet.
Available at nike.com, priced £125.
adidas Originals Climacool 1 Bluebird
Pulling an under-appreciated style from its archives, adidas is re-releasing the Originals Climacool 1. First seen in 2000, the Climacool is all about ventilation. There are five colourways: red, all-black, black with a white sole, red, and blue – the latter, called ‘Bluebird’, exclusive to JD Sports.
The uppers feature a combination of textile and synthetic materials to keep the foot fresh, but even the midsole allows air to flow in and out. With a moulded midsole for enhanced cushioning, adiprene+ in the forefoot absorbs shock and returns it as propulsive energy for a swift, responsive step.
Available at JD Sports, priced £95.
Reebok Classics Ventilator Supreme Pack
Diving into the archives, Reebok has brought back the Ventilator Supreme. It might sound like heavy-duty medical equipment, but in its 1990s hey-day the Ventilator was a cutting edge trainer that showcased some influential and innovative design features.
This modern drop comes in three colourways: black and neon yellow; white and purple; and pink and grey. The upper is crafted from premium leather with mesh inlays, the sole is Hexalite, and an IMEVA midsole ensures serious comfort and shock-absorption.
Available at Reebok, priced £85.
Converse 70’s x Missoni
Missoni has been collaborating with Converse for some time now but this particular iteration uses Converse 70’s silhouette, a recent revival of a more authentic Chuck Taylor. The uppers mimic Missoni’s iconic knitwear technique, which for this pack also covers the toecap.
Tonal laces and a contrasting heel strip set these Converse apart from other styles. They might cost a lot more than your average Chucks but if you’re a Missoni fan, then it’s money well spent.
Suddenly the world’s most ubiquitous trainer takes a step in a more stand-out direction.
Available at Converse, priced £140.