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New Balance Opens at QV Melbourne

Derrick Narciso
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New Balance Opens at QV Melbourne

We headed to the grand opening of the new New Balance Athletic Store at QV Melbourne, and it exceeded expectations.

For the launch event, Albert Coates Lane transformed into a vibrant celebration space. The street closed to traffic and came alive with a live DJ, great music, and an energetic crowd. While the atmosphere was electric, the true star of the night was the impressive new New Balance retail store.

From the moment you step inside, the space feels modern, premium, and welcoming. More importantly, it perfectly balances contemporary design with New Balance’s rich heritage and iconic DNA. The new QV Melbourne location will serve as a destination for the latest New Balance sneaker releases, premium lifestyle collections, and highly sought-after Made in USA products.

In addition, sneaker enthusiasts can look forward to exclusive collaborations and limited-edition drops. Setting the tone from the entrance was the latest Stone Island x New Balance collection, giving guests an exciting glimpse into the caliber of releases expected at the store moving forward.

To make the experience even more special, guests received exclusive grey New Balance tote bags that could be personalized with their own area code. This thoughtful touch added a unique and memorable connection to the event.

The launch also provided an opportunity to meet the new store team and management while reconnecting with familiar faces from Melbourne’s thriving sneaker community. Throughout the evening, the energy remained high, reflecting the excitement surrounding this significant milestone for New Balance in Melbourne.

Overall, the event was a huge success and a fitting introduction to one of Melbourne’s newest sneaker destinations. To cap off a fantastic night, we even left with a fresh pair of sneakers.

A massive thank you to New Balance for the invitation and hospitality. Congratulations to the entire team on the successful opening of the new QV Melbourne store. We look forward to returning soon and adding a few more pairs to the collection.

MITSUI x ASICS GEL-LYTE III 07 REMASTERED

Derrick Narciso
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MITSUI x ASICS GEL-LYTE III 07 REMASTERED

Few sneaker designers have shaped sneaker culture like Shigeyuki Mitsui. His legendary creations continue to inspire collectors and enthusiasts around the world. Today, we take a closer look at the ASICS GEL-LYTE III 07 Remastered, a special release that celebrates Mitsui’s remarkable legacy and retirement.

The GEL-LYTE III played a major role in my sneaker journey. Although I mainly collected basketball sneakers, the iconic split-tongue design pulled me into the world of runners. Now, ASICS revives that magic with the 07 Remastered and pays tribute to one of the greatest sneaker designers of all time.

The moment I opened the beautifully designed box, the shape immediately caught my attention. ASICS perfectly recreated the essence of the original. The silhouette avoids looking too rounded or overly sharp. Instead, it delivers the balanced shape that made the OG an icon.

This release also celebrates the GEL-LYTE III’s 35th anniversary. In Japanese, people can pronounce the number 35 as “San-Go,” which also translates to “coral.” ASICS used coral reefs as the primary inspiration and incorporated that theme throughout the design.

The upper combines vibrant furry teal-blue suede mudguards and heel overlays with premium beige suede panels. However, the carved leather Tiger Stripes steal the show. Their textured patterns mimic coral formations and give the sneaker a distinctive identity.

To enhance the nostalgic feel, ASICS brought back the original-style mesh netting on the side panels and heel. The brand also placed Mitsui’s signature on the outer flap of the split tongue, creating a direct connection to the designer behind the silhouette.

One detail I particularly appreciate is the coral reef artwork printed on the insoles. While subtle, it strengthens the storytelling and ties the entire concept together.

ASICS also upgraded the comfort and performance. The midsole now features FLYTEFOAM cushioning, which delivers a lighter, softer, and more comfortable ride for all-day wear. This modern update improves the experience without sacrificing the shoe’s heritage.

The sneaker comes equipped with flat off-white laces featuring grey speckles. ASICS also includes an extra pair of orange-speckled laces, giving you another option to personalize the look.

Underfoot, the classic GEL-LYTE III split outsole arrives in a clean cream-and-orange finish. Longtime fans will instantly recognize and appreciate this timeless design element.

Overall, ASICS executed this retirement tribute exactly right. The brand selected premium materials, nailed the shape, and balanced the color blocking beautifully. More importantly, every detail serves a purpose and contributes to the story.

As someone who considers Mitsui a personal sneaker hero, I find this release especially meaningful. It celebrates a designer whose work helped define modern sneaker culture and influenced generations of sneaker enthusiasts.

Enjoy your retirement, Mitsui-san. Thank you for creating one of the most iconic sneaker silhouettes in history.

You can check-out our last feature here.

EARLS Collection Hosts Launch for ASICS Collaboration

Julian Pauncz
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EARLS Collection Hosts Launch for ASICS Collaboration

EARLS Collection Paddington provided the perfect backdrop for an intimate evening celebrating the launch of the ASICS SportStyle x EARLS GEL-CUMULUS™ 16 and LETHAL™ Testimonial 4 IT. Friends, family, media, and members of the sneaker and football communities came together to recognise a project deeply rooted in personal storytelling, heritage, and community.

The ASICS SportStyle x EARLS GEL-CUMULUS™ 16 is a deeply personal interpretation of Lewi’s values and Māori culture of home and healing. Inspired by his childhood growing up in Christchurch, New Zealand, the design reflects the influence of his mother, grandfather, local football club, people and places that helped shape the person he is today.

Every detail carries meaning. Mesh panelling serves as a respectful nod to the original collaboration and reflects the Māori value of honouring those who enable forward movement. Pebbled SILKYWRAP™ construction on the ASICS Stripes references the years of hard work and sacrifice made by Lewi’s mother, with the aged texture symbolising wisdom and experience earned over time. Brown suede overlays represent family heritage and evoke a sense of comfort, belonging, and connection to home.

While retaining the iconic silver accents synonymous with the GEL-CUMULUS™ franchise and ASICS SportStyle’s performance legacy, the sneaker also features custom insoles inspired by the carpet of Lewi’s childhood home, the place where his dream of becoming a footballer first began.

Screenshot

The launch also provided the first opportunity for guests to experience EARLS‘ latest apparel capsule, released alongside the ASICS SportStyle collaboration. Designed as an extension of the stories and values woven throughout the footwear, the collection brought together themes of home, heritage, healing, and community. By presenting both the apparel and footwear together, Lewi showcased a complete creative vision, one that reflects the evolution of EARLS as a brand and its commitment to authentic storytelling through sport, culture, and design.

As guests enjoyed food, drinks, and conversations throughout the evening, the launch reinforced the strong relationship between ASICS SportStyle, Australian football culture, and the communities that continue to inspire the brand. More than a product release, the event was a celebration of family, heritage, healing, and the stories that continue to inspire the next generation.

A special thank you to Lewi Brown, EARLS, and ASICS SportStyle for the invitation and hospitality. It was a privilege to experience the stories behind the collection firsthand and celebrate the launch alongside the family, friends, and community members who helped bring the project to life.

For information on other events or features, click HERE.

It’s More Than Just Sneakers Melbourne 2026 Recap

Julian Pauncz
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It’s More Than Just Sneakers Melbourne 2026 Recap

On Saturday, May 9, 2026, It’s More Than Just Sneakers made its return to Melbourne, bringing the community together once again at St Kilda PCYC for another unforgettable stop on the lifestyle tour.

From the moment doors opened, the energy inside the venue was undeniable. Sneakerheads, collectors, streetwear enthusiasts, and families all packed into the space, creating the kind of atmosphere that continues to make IMTJS more than just an event. Whether people came to buy, sell, trade, or simply connect with others in the culture, there was something for everyone throughout the day.

Vendor tables were stacked with everything from grails and everyday beaters to vintage apparel, collectibles, and accessories. Conversations sparked everywhere across the floor as people shared stories behind their pickups, talked upcoming releases, and connected over a shared passion for sneakers and street culture. It was a reminder that the community side of the culture is still what matters most.

One of the highlights of the day came courtesy of Monster Energy, who kept attendees refreshed throughout the event with free drinks and refreshments. Indomie also brought the fun with interactive games running throughout the day, giving attendees the chance to win merch, prizes, and free noodles, which quickly became a crowd favourite.

A massive thank you goes out to our sponsors and vendors for their ongoing support, and to our incredible volunteers who make sure everything runs smoothly. You’re all a big part of what makes It’s More Than Just Sneakers one of the most loved events on the scene.

ABSNC (Singapore) – @absnc
AFEW (Germany) – @afewstore
ASICS Sportstyle – @asics_sportstyle_au
Ayoub Lawyers – https://www.ayoublawyers.com.au/
CARNIVAL (Thailand) – @carnivalbkk
Cosmonauts Spacewear (Indonesia) – @cosmonautsspacewear
Crep Protect – @crepprotect_au
Crumpler – @crumpler
CLUTCH24 – @clutch24_sports
EA Sports – @easportsofficial
eBay – @ebayau
G-SHOCK – @gshockoz
Indomie – @indomieau
Jarritos – @jarritosau
JBL – @jblaustralia
Kicks Kase – @kickskase
LaceSpace – @lace.space
Limited Edt (Singapore) – @limitededt_sg
Mizuno Sportstyle – @mizunoaustralia
Monster Energy – @monsterenergy
Monsta Kicks – @monstakicks.au
Rhypla Builds – @rhypla
Philips – @philipshomelivinganz
SKINARMA (Singapore) – @skinarma
Secret Fresh – @secretfreshph
Sole Emporium – @thesoleemporium
Stateside Sports – @statesidesports.au
The Gamesmen – @thegamesmen

Melbourne always shows love, and this year was no different. Familiar faces returned, new supporters joined the movement, and the city once again proved why it continues to be one of the standout stops on the IMTJS tour.

A massive thank you goes out to all the vendors, sponsors, volunteers, and everyone who came through to support the event. None of this happens without the community. Until next time, Melbourne. For information on other It’s More Than Just Sneakers events or features, click HERE.

Engineered Garments x Converse Weapon Low

Derrick Narciso
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Engineered Garments x Converse Weapon Low

If you loved the legendary rivalry era of Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, then you’re going to appreciate this latest collaboration from Converse and Engineered Garments.

Today, we’re taking a closer look at the Converse Weapon Low x Engineered Garments in the Vintage White and Yellow colourway, a direct nod to Magic Johnson’s iconic Los Angeles Lakers era. Meanwhile, fans of Larry Bird can also grab the clean Black and White edition inspired by the Boston Celtics legend.

However, this isn’t your dad’s classic Converse Weapon. This updated collaboration brings a modern twist to the historic basketball silhouette. Most notably, Converse and Engineered Garments re-tooled the sneaker with added T-BAR support straps across the midfoot and heel. As a result, the shoe delivers a more secure and lockdown-style fit for everyday wear.

In addition, the uppers feature soft paneled full-grain leather construction paired with perforated detailing and plush collar padding for enhanced comfort. The signature purple Converse Weapon tongue branding also makes a strong return, staying true to the original basketball DNA of the silhouette.

Underfoot, the sneaker keeps things classic with clean white midsoles and the timeless Weapon traction pattern finished in royal purple. Meanwhile, cushioning comes courtesy of polyurethane foam insoles stamped with subtle Engineered Garments co-branding.

Retailing for $220 AUD, the Converse Weapon x Engineered Garments collaboration is now available via Converse Australia. In terms of sizing, they fit true to size overall. However, wide-footers should consider going up half a size for extra comfort.

So, if you’re chasing a classic basketball sneaker with vintage NBA rivalry energy, premium materials, and upgraded comfort, this latest Converse Weapon collaboration deserves a spot on your radar.

You can check-out our last feature here.

EARLS Collection and ASICS Run It Back

Jay Mijares
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EARLS Collection and ASICS Run It Back

After the massive success of their first collaboration, EARLS Collection and ASICS are back with another release that feels even more personal, more intentional, and more meaningful.

This time, the partnership expands beyond sneakers, introducing not only a reworked GEL-CUMULUS™ 16 but also a debut football boot, the LETHAL TESTIMONIAL™ 4 IT, marking a first for ASICS in Australia. It is a bold move that bridges the worlds of lifestyle and sport, rooted deeply in storytelling and identity.

At the centre of it all is EARLS Collection founder Lewi Brown, whose latest collaboration draws from his upbringing in Christchurch, New Zealand. Through memories of family, home, and his early football journey, Brown channels the people and places that shaped him into every detail of this collection.

The EARLS Collection x ASICS GEL-CUMULUS™ 16 carries a strong emotional narrative. Designed as a reflection of healing, heritage, and self belief, the sneaker blends thoughtful materials and symbolism throughout. Mesh panelling returns as a nod to honouring the foundations that move us forward. Rich brown overlays evoke warmth, family, and belonging, while pebbled ASICS stripes pay tribute to years of hard work and resilience. Even the custom insoles tell a story, recreating the carpet from Brown’s childhood home, a subtle but powerful reminder of where his journey began.

While the sneaker honours his lifestyle path, the EARLS Collection x ASICS LETHAL TESTIMONIAL™ 4 IT football boot takes it back to where the dream first started.

Inspired by Brown’s childhood memories of wanting white football boots while playing in hand me down black pairs, this boot feels deeply personal. The brown tones continue as a tribute to family and his grandfather, the person who first introduced him to rugby league and a lifelong supporter of ASICS. Protective detailing on the heel symbolises strength, resilience, and the unwavering support system that carried him through every stage of his journey.

Finished with interchangeable brown, white, and orange laces, the boot encourages individuality while celebrating team spirit. Custom insoles reference the Addington Show Grounds in Christchurch, where Brown spent countless hours playing and dreaming.

Together, both pieces tell the story of two worlds that define Lewi Brown. One in fashion. One in sport. Both connected by family, culture, and purpose.

Even the packaging continues the narrative. The EARLS Collection x ASICS GEL-CUMULUS™ 16 arrives in a bespoke shoebox inspired by Brown’s childhood home, while the football boot packaging nods to the visual identity of his first football club.

This is more than another sneaker collaboration. It is a reminder that the places we come from and the people who believe in us become part of every step we take.

The EARLS Collection x ASICS collaboration launches 23 May, available exclusively through ASICS Australia, EARLS online, and EARLS Paddington Sydney. The GEL-CUMULUS™ 16 will retail for $270 AUD and the LETHAL TESTIMONIAL™ 4 IT football boot will retail for $320 AUD.

To stay up to date, make sure you sign up to our newsletter. For other ASICS features, click HERE and for sneaker features, click HERE.

UP THERE x adidas Consortium ‘MELBOURNE’

Jay Mijares
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UP THERE x adidas Consortium ‘MELBOURNE’

Melbourne’s signature uniform just got an upgrade. Linking up with adidas Consortium, UP THERE delivers a stealthed-out take on the UP THERE x adidas Consortium ‘MELBOURNE’, and this one hits different.

Rooted deep in the archives, this pair pulls inspiration from a rare all-black version of the adidas Rome—originally built for military use. That influence shows up in the clean, tactical colour blocking, but don’t get it twisted—this isn’t just another triple-black sneaker.

Instead of loud colours, it’s all about texture. You’re getting a premium mix of tumbled leather, rough-cut suede, and polished finishes that subtly flex under the light. It’s understated, but it speaks volumes—just like Melbourne’s street culture.

Details stay lowkey but intentional. Green lace tips and a custom sockliner quietly rep UP THERE, while the tongue stamped “MADE FOR UP THERE” reminds you this isn’t a general release—it’s personal.

Comfort doesn’t take a back seat either. With a padded leather lining, performance insole, and stacked EVA midsole, this pair is built for everyday wear without losing that premium edge.

The UP THERE x adidas Consortium ‘Melbourne’ exclusive release will be available only through UP THERE, dropping in-store on May 7 at 10:00AM (AEST), followed by the online launch later that day at 6:00PM (AEST). If you’re trying to secure a pair, timing is everything—don’t sleep.

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates and exclusive drops. For other SNEAKER features, click here.

UNDFTD x Converse

Derrick Narciso
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UNDFTD x Converse

Converse taps into its deep-rooted Los Angeles heritage with the latest instalment of its high-profile collaboration with Undefeated and the Los Angeles Dodgers. This time, the trio delivers a fresh Chuck 70 colourway that celebrates West Coast sporting dominance and street culture in equal measure.

Building on the momentum of the Dodgers’ back-to-back World Series victories, the release arrives with serious cultural weight. Moreover, the campaign is led by star pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, alongside creative voices Jairo and Salem Mitchell. Together, they bridge sport, style, and cultural influence, reinforcing the connection between performance and streetwear.

Available at Converse.

You can check-out our last feature here.

CARNIVAL® x Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 ‘Dusk Terra’

Jay Mijares
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CARNIVAL® x Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 ‘Dusk Terra’

Saucony, in collaboration with Carnival Running, presents the special edition Endorphin Speed 5 ‘Dusk Terra’, exploring the concept of Movement in Transition — a reflection of movement across moments of change, spanning place, time, and mindset.

The design of the CARNIVAL® x Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 ‘Dusk Terra’ draws inspiration from transitional moments between daylight and nightfall. Earth tones (terra) are blended with warm hues of dusk, forming a gradient that captures the depth of twilight. This visual narrative reflects a journey from city to nature — a seamless progression through shifting environments.

Built on the foundation of the Endorphin Speed 5 from Saucony, a globally recognised performance running brand founded in 1898 in Pennsylvania, USA, the silhouette is designed for both training and racing. Saucony’s legacy, rooted in authenticity and performance, is represented through its iconic river-and-stone logo inspired by the Saucony Creek, symbolising continuity and movement.

The model incorporates SPEEDROLL technology for forward propulsion, PWRRUN PB cushioning for lightweight responsiveness, and a nylon plate for stability during high-speed transitions. A breathable mesh upper completes the design, ensuring comfort and support across varying conditions.

More than performance footwear, this release reflects a shared perspective between Saucony and Carnival Running — a brand shaped by running culture, urban movement, and continuous progress. Built from lived experience and the pursuit of personal evolution, Carnival Running emphasises consistency, intention, and forward motion.

Together, the collaboration expresses a unified idea of movement as progression and adaptation through every stride.

The CARNIVAL® x Saucony Endorphin 5 ‘Dusk Terra’ is now available globally at Carnival locations including Siam Square Soi 7 and CentralWorld, as well as online via www.carnivalbkk.com and the CARNIVAL APP, alongside Rev RUNNR and selected retailers worldwide, in full family sizing from US 5 to 12.5, priced at 6,290 THB.

To stay up to date, make sure you sign up to our newsletter. For other CARNIVAL features, click here.

It’s More Than Just Sneakers Sydney 2026 Recap

Julian Pauncz
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It’s More Than Just Sneakers Sydney 2026 Recap

On Saturday, April 11, 2026, the event returned for its latest instalment, this time in a new setting, taking over the Albion Hotel in Parramatta. As the first edition held at this location, the move brought a different feel to the day while maintaining the elements that have come to define the event.

From opening, the space quickly settled into a steady rhythm. Attendees moved through the venue, stopping in at vendor tables, browsing, negotiating, and connecting with others across the floor. The layout of the Albion Hotel created a more contained environment, keeping activity centralised and consistent throughout the day.

As expected, sneakers remained the focus. Vendors presented a wide selection, from recent releases to harder-to-find pairs, alongside more accessible options. Beyond footwear, the offering extended into vintage clothing, streetwear, collectibles, and trading cards, adding variety and giving attendees more to explore.

The venue itself played a role in shaping the overall experience. With food and drinks available from the Albion’s kitchen and bar, attendees were able to take breaks without leaving the space. This contributed to a more relaxed and continuous flow, allowing people to spend longer periods at the event.

Giveaways took place across the day, providing moments of engagement and drawing attention at regular intervals. Between these, activity remained consistent, with ongoing conversations, transactions, and movement across the floor.

While the location may have changed, the core of the event remained the same. It continues to bring together a mix of vendors, collectors, and attendees in a setting built around shared interest and in-person interaction.

The April 2026 edition marked a solid first showing for It’s More Than Just Sneakers in Parramatta, establishing a new base while carrying forward the format that has defined previous events.

A massive thank you goes out to our sponsors and vendors for their ongoing support, and to our incredible volunteers who make sure everything runs smoothly. You’re all a big part of what makes It’s More Than Just Sneakers one of the most loved events on the scene.

ABSNC (Singapore) – @absnc
AFEW (Germany) – @afewstore
ASICS Sportstyle – @asics_sportstyle_au
Ayoub Lawyers – https://www.ayoublawyers.com.au/
CARNIVAL (Thailand) – @carnivalbkk
Cosmonauts Spacewear (Indonesia) – @cosmonautsspacewear
Crep Protect – @crepprotect_au
Crumpler – @crumpler
CLUTCH24 – @clutch24_sports
EA Sports – @easportsofficial
eBay – @ebayau
G-SHOCK – @gshockoz
Indomie – @indomieau
Jarritos – @jarritosau
JBL – @jblaustralia
Kicks Kase – @kickskase
LaceSpace – @lace.space
Limited Edt (Singapore) – @limitededt_sg
Mizuno Sportstyle – @mizunoaustralia
Monster Energy – @monsterenergy
Monsta Kicks – @monstakicks.au
Rhypla Builds – @rhypla
Philips – @philipshomelivinganz
SKINARMA (Singapore) – @skinarma
Secret Fresh – @secretfreshph
Sole Emporium – @thesoleemporium
Stateside Sports – @statesidesports.au
The Gamesmen – @thegamesmen

Until next time, Sydney. Thank you for the love and energy. Make sure you’re following @thekickzstand and signed up for our newsletter so you don’t miss the next stop of the tour. Trust us, you’ll want to be there. For information on other It’s More Than Just Sneakers events or features, click HERE.

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