Some people have the misconception that sneaker collecting is a phenomenon limited to the West when in fact, it can also be observed outside North America and Europe. Japan was a big player, even during a time when the current technology still did not allow for easy exchange of information among countries that are continents apart. They were influenced by styles that transcend borders, sure, but the Japanese added twists to make them uniquely their own. The same can still be said today, as evident on the Adidas x United Arrows & Sons City Sock Sneakers.
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US$375.00
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US$135.00
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Release date: March 2017
The German Adidas and the Japanese United Arrows & Sons collaborating brought new and distinct NMDs to the table. This does not mark their first teaming up, but just like their previous releases, this one is certainly worth your attention. Calligrapher and typographer MIKITYPE was also tapped to give the Adidas NMD a Japanese touch, as seen on the characters that leap out from the otherwise minimalist shoes. The tandem released a whole capsule collection on top of that, which includes tracksuits to complete the outfit.
Pros
Sock sneakers are primarily promoted for their comfort. In the case of the Adidas x United Arrows & Sons City Sock Sneakers, you can very well expect the same. Like most recent releases from the German sportswear brand, the kicks are equipped with Boost soles to guarantee more ease when walking in addition to the Primeknit upper. The latter is woven and laceless, with an appearance similar to a sock, but is supported underneath by a gum rubber outsole. The style is in tune with Japanese minimalist aesthetics, and United Arrows & Sons shows even more of its origins with the katakana on the sole, heel and sides.
Cons
You’ll find many people fawning over the Adidas x United Arrows & Sons City Socks, that’s for sure, but the appeal of these and sock sneakers in general is not universal. It may take some time before they grow on others, or even not at all considering that sock sneakers are generally polarizing despite their trendiness. Should you dig them, you’ll have to put some effort in copping them as these are limited in stock and pretty hard to find. They are also intended to be snug on the feet but most wearers find that they run large; you’ll have to buy these in half or even an entire size smaller.
Compare With
- Nike x Supreme Air More Uptempo
- Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34
- Puma x Coogi Clyde
- Nike x Off White Air Jordan 1
Image credits: Highsnobiety (featured image and article image), Sneaker Bar Detroit, Solebox, Adidas (article images)