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NBA x NBL Melbourne Series

Jay Mijares
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NBA x NBL Melbourne Series

Get ready, Melbourne! The New Orleans Pelicans are coming to Australia this October for the first-ever NBA games Down Under. In partnership with the NBL and Visit Victoria, the Pelicans will take on Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix in two exciting preseason matchups at Melbourne Park on October 3 and 5, 2025.

But it’s not just about the games. The NBA, NBL, and Pelicans will host community outreach events, including a special Fan Night on October 4. This marks the start of bigger plans to grow basketball across the Asia-Pacific region, with more grassroots initiatives on the way.

The announcement was made on the 11th of March in Melbourne by a line-up of basketball leaders, including Pelicans Executive VP David Griffin and NBL Executive Director Larry Kestelman. The Pelicans’ star players—two-time NBA All-Star Zion Williamson, 2022 All-Star Dejounte Murray, and 2016 Most Improved Player CJ McCollum—will be headlining the games.

Tickets will be available soon, and fans can sign up for presale access and updates. This historic event continues the strong relationship between the NBA and NBL, which has seen NBL teams travel to the U.S. for preseason games, along with the success of the NBL’s Next Stars program, sending top talent like Josh Giddey and LaMelo Ball to the NBA.

Don’t miss out—Australia’s NBA moment is just around the corner! NBA and NBL fans can register interest in tickets here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter, so you can stay up to date! For other Event features click HERE and for other sneaker features, click HERE.

ASICS GEL-KAYANO 20 ‘Gravel/Pure Silver’

Derrick Narciso
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ASICS GEL-KAYANO 20 ‘Gravel/Pure Silver’

This latest ASICS GEL-KAYANO 20 arrives in a Gravel/Pure Silver colourway. Originally a performance running shoe, the silhouette is now making waves in mainstream streetwear.

The upper features ultra-breathable grey space mesh, reinforced with synthetic strips for durability. A standout detail is the KAYANO logo branding, arranged in a printed “20” on the toebox mudguard to mark the line’s anniversary. For lockdown and support, silver TPU strips (FluidFit technology) crisscross the upper, working alongside ASICS’ signature Tiger Stripes and a grey TPU heel counter. A textured inner liner, oval grey laces, and multiple ASICS, KAYANO 20, and GEL branding complete the look.

Performance-wise, exposed GEL pods on the midsole absorb shock with each stride, while the GUIDANCE TRUSSTIC system shank plate adds torsional support. A grooved black rubber outsole ensures top-tier traction.

Though it feels like the GEL-KAYANO 20 just entered the sneaker scene, it has long been a cult favourite—especially in Australia. Previous vibrant colourways sold out quickly, with some commanding high resale prices.

This Gravel/Pure Silver edition is a stark contrast to past bold releases. However, its neutral Y2K-inspired aesthetic makes it incredibly versatile—easy to dress up or down. The build quality is excellent, panel cuts are precise, and they fit true to size (TTS) with a wide-foot-friendly design.

Now available at asics.com.au and select retailers for $270 AUD. To stay up to date, make sure you sign up to our newsletter. For other SNEAKER features, click here.

ASICS Launches Work Boots

Derrick Narciso
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ASICS Launches Work Boots

ASICS, the globally recognized sports brand, is moving from the field to the worksite as it launches its first Australian work boots range. Known for quality and comfort in sportswear, ASICS now brings that expertise to work boots for trades and light industry professionals who need to stay light on their feet.

The ASICS Work Boots range launches with two styles: a mid-cut and a low-cut. It combines the comfort of an ASICS running shoe with the protection of a work boot. The lightweight design ensures all-day support, helping workers move with ease.

ASICS Oceania Managing Director Mark Brunton sees this as a natural step. He said,

“As a performance brand with innovation at our core, we are uniquely positioned to expand. Our heritage allows us to create high-quality work boots that deliver the trusted performance ASICS is known for.”

The ASICS Work Boots will be retailing at $270 AUD, they are now available locally at asics.com.au. To stay up to date, make sure you sign up to our newsletter. For other SNEAKER features, click here.

2025 Nike Air Foamposite One ‘Galaxy’

Derrick Narciso
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2025 Nike Air Foamposite One ‘Galaxy’

Grails Secured!!!

When it comes to Melbourne sneaker history, the OG Galaxy Foams weren’t just a top-three sneaker release of the year 2012. They also signaled the moment sneaker culture broke into mainstream consciousness. The Yeezy 2, the LeBron X Cork, and the NBA All-Star Galaxy Pack, which included the OG Galaxy Foams, were the driving forces behind the sneaker explosion that year. Sneaker groups popped up everywhere, social media became a hub for sneakerheads. I know many of you became one during that era.

That year also brought me lifelong friendships within the sneaker community, making it even more special. The Galaxy Foams weren’t just a hyped release—they played a massive role in shaping sneaker culture and history in Australia. That’s why they’re such a grail for me. While I refused to pay the insane resale prices for the OGs, I was beyond grateful when Nike decided to bring them back. As expected, they sold out instantly, and I actually missed out! I won’t go into details about how I finally secured my pair, but let’s just say a little kindness these days goes a long way.

For me, the Galaxy Foams will always rank among the top five greatest Foamposite releases of all time. Now, let’s talk about the release itself. I’m beyond happy with how they turned out. From what I remember, the Galaxy Foams stayed true to the OG design. The official colorway is obsidian/Anthracite Black. From memory, the 2025 version might have a slightly more saturated Galaxy print and a darker toebox, but overall, the execution is spot-on. One of the coolest additions this time around is the special galaxy-print box and tissue paper—a nice touch from Nike. And yes they still glow in the dark!

Judging by this and the other fire drops this February, it looks like Nike is serious about reclaiming its top spot in the market. I just wish they had made more pairs!

Full disclosure: I never liked playing ball in Foams—they felt too heavy and slippery on the court. But on foot? They still look futuristic and fire, even today. Older Foams always ran small for me, but this pair fits perfectly true to size.

Since they’re completely sold out, your best bet is the aftermarket, where prices range from $600–$700 AUD depending on size. That’s a steal compared to the insane resale prices back in the day when people were trading stacks—or even cars—for them!

mita sneakers x WHIZ Limited x Pro-Keds Royal Plus Suede Lo

Jay Mijares
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mita sneakers x WHIZ Limited x Pro-Keds Royal Plus Suede Lo

PRO-Keds was born in 1949 as a sneaker brand for professional athletes, created by Keds – the iconic American brand that made the term “sneakers” famous worldwide. In the 1960s, NBA players started rocking the brand, and by the 1970s, it became a go-to among Ivy League students. Over the years, PRO-Keds has built a solid reputation, earning the nickname “Converse in the West, Keds in the East.”

One of its standout models, the ROYAL PLUS, first dropped in 1972. It’s instantly recognizable with the two lines along the upper and the red and blue power stripe on the sole. This reissue is part of the “Neo PRO-Keds” Japanese project, which gives a modern twist to the classic designs of the past. While it keeps that signature silhouette, this version is updated with a “Vibram® MEGAGRIP” sole that delivers superior grip, no matter the terrain.

It’s a perfect blend of old-school style and new-school performance. The collaboration between WHIZ Limited and mita sneakers takes the sneaker to the next level. They’ve used premium suede and smooth leather in a sleek medium grey colourway that’s both stylish and versatile. The power stripe detail really pops against the monochrome backdrop, giving the shoe a sophisticated, urban look that makes it stand out from other vintage-inspired kicks. It’s a new take on a classic that’s evolved but still keeps that timeless appeal.

mita sneakers x WHIZ Limited x Pro-Keds Royal Plus Suede Lo
Colour: Grey
Style Code: PN1021M1
Price: ¥17,600
Sizes: 24.0cm – 29.0cm

The mita sneakers x WHIZ Limited x Pro-Keds Royal Plus Suede Lo is now available at mita sneakers, Herringbone Footwear, and WHIZ Limited. To stay up to date, make sure you sign up to our newsletter. For other SNEAKER features, click here.


BISSO x SAUCONY SHADOW 5000 ‘Bondamanjak’

Jay Mijares
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BISSO x SAUCONY SHADOW 5000 ‘Bondamanjak’

Guadeloupean designer Bisso is back with Saucony for the vibrant “Bondamanjak” sneaker, a bold tribute to Caribbean culture. Named after the fiery Habanero chili pepper, it symbolizes power, resilience, and the spirit of Caribbean women. Bisso also incorporates madras fabric, representing cultural pride and tradition.

The sneaker features a colour palette inspired by the chili’s ripening stages, using shades of green, yellow, orange, and red. Made from suede, perforated suede, and smooth leather, it’s durable yet stylish.

Each pair is unique with a random madras print, and custom details like the SB logo, chili pepper motifs, and teal blue lining, which nods to the waters of Guadeloupe, make it stand out. The colourful outsole and two sets of laces add a final touch.

Packaged in a special box with chili pepper designs and madras-printed tissue paper, the sneaker release is supported by a video filmed in Guadeloupe during the “Fête des Cuisinières,” celebrating Caribbean women and culinary traditions.

The Bisso x Saucony Shadow 5000 “Bondamanjak” will be released on March 1st, 2025, with a retail price of €150. It will be available at select retailers including Shoez Gallery, AFEW, Overkill, Sneakers76, Le Lieu, 43einhalb, and BSTN. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter, so you can stay up to date! For other Sneaker features, click HERE.

Mizuno MXR

Derrick Narciso
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Mizuno MXR

The Mizuno MXR in the Snow White, Bistro Green, and Silver colorway brings a fresh take on performance and style. Inspired by Mizuno’s 2009 Maximizer running shoes. This silhouette delivers both nostalgia and innovation.

Right out of the box, I was immediately struck by how incredibly light they felt. The upper, made primarily of breathable white mesh, keeps your feet cool. While bold synthetic silver overlays add structure and durability. Mizuno’s signature branding appears on the tongue and heel, while the striking RunBird logo in Bistro Green stands out on the side panels. The silver overlays, combined with an internal heel counter, ensure a secure lockdown, while a silver pull tab on the heel adds a functional touch.

Cushioning comes from the U4iCX midsole foam, which I found to be both highly responsive and shock-absorbing. Beneath that, the durable rubber outsole provides exceptional traction, making these ideal for all-day wear.

After wearing the Mizuno MXR for a full day, I can confidently say they are a treat for the feet. The wide mesh upper keeps airflow constant—you can literally feel the breeze as you move—making them perfect for everyday wear. The midsole maintains its shape while offering excellent support, striking the right balance between comfort and responsiveness.

From a style perspective, the cream, green, and silver Y2K aesthetic remains one of the hottest looks in sneakers and streetwear.

As for sizing, the Mizuno MXR runs true to size, though wide-footers may want to go up a half size. The good news? They’re available now at Hype DC, so you can try them on in-store to find your perfect fit. You can also grab them online at mizuno.com.au, where a 10% sign-up bonus is currently available.

Retailing at $200 AUD, these kicks are a solid choice for both performance and style. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter, so you can stay up to date! For other sneaker features, click HERE.

A SUPER NICE Time, With Friends

Jay Mijares
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A SUPER NICE Time, With Friends

Since launching in early 2024, SUPER NICE has been making its mark with a focus on premium craftsmanship, sustainability, and a clean design. Based in Melbourne, every piece is designed, sampled, and made locally with the highest quality Japanese fabrics.

Inspired by streetwear cultures from Japan and the USA, SUPER NICE is all about oversized fits made from heavyweight, high-GSM cottons. The brand keeps it simple with a core philosophy: use the best fabrics, focus on quality, tell stories through collaboration, and build a community through events.

The branding and graphic identity of SUPER NICE pay tribute to the iconic brands that shaped the streetwear world, but with a unique twist. It’s minimalist and repeatable, designed to become an instantly recognizable signature while staying mature and easy to wear.

As part of the Melbourne Fashion Festival Independent Programme, SUPER NICE is excited to drop a special collab with Melbourne artist Kyle Adams. This project is all about the brand’s core values—quality, craftsmanship, storytelling, and community.

This isn’t just a fashion event—it’s a celebration of the creative process behind both SUPER NICE’s designs and Kyle Adams’ artwork. The collection will be showcased in a gallery space with various installations, showing not just the final pieces, but also the journey behind them.

‘A SUPER NICE time, with friends’ is all about bringing together friends, family, and the wider community to check out this collab between SUPER NICE and Kyle Adams.

The event, happening on March 1st, will be the brand’s first, giving the community a chance to see up close the energy and effort that goes into creating the garments and building the brand. Don’t miss out—grab your tickets now for this exclusive experience! TICKETS: https://linktr.ee/superniceclothing

Make sure you sign up to our newsletter, so you can stay up to date! For other Event features click HERE and for other sneaker features, click HERE.

Cecilie Bahnsen x ASICS GEL-TERRAIN MT

Jay Mijares
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Cecilie Bahnsen x ASICS GEL-TERRAIN MT

Cecilie Bahnsen is teaming up with ASICS again for a new release coming Fall 2024. The latest collab introduces the GEL-TERRAIN MT, which first debuted at the Spring Summer 2025 show in Paris, mixing functionality and femininity in a fresh way.

This time, the GEL-TERRAIN model gets a mid-top makeover with two versions for winter. The first features a shiny, quilted upper with floral embroidery, topped with a semi-transparent overlay for protection. A neoprene sock adds extra comfort. The second version has a TPU rain cover with floral patches and silver ASICS Tiger Stripes peeking through. A hidden zipper and traditional lacing merge style with practicality. Both sneakers complement each other, balancing bold and subtle, structured and soft, technical and feminine.

Over the course of their collabs, Cecilie Bahnsen and ASICS have developed a signature look. “With every collab, our design language with ASICS becomes more natural. The GEL-TERRAIN MT feels effortless and completely our own,” Cecilie says.

The campaign, shot by Japanese photographer Takashi Homma, uses cool blue tones to connect with the GEL-TERRAIN MT’s translucent design. It reflects ASICS’ “Sound Mind, Sound Body” philosophy, focusing on the calm energy after movement.

The Cecilie Bahnsen x ASICS GEL-TERRAIN MT will be available on February 28th at ASICS.com. To stay up to date, make sure you sign up to our newsletter. For other SNEAKER features, click here.

mita sneakers x ASICS GEL-YETI TOKYO HI GTX “GORE-TEX”

Jay Mijares
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0
mita sneakers x ASICS GEL-YETI TOKYO HI GTX “GORE-TEX”

Get ready—something special is coming in 2025! ASICS is bringing back some of its most iconic models in a fresh, modern way, all starting from Japan. This project is all about reimagining classic sneaker designs for today’s world while staying true to their original roots.

Leading the creative direction is none other than Shigeyuki Kunii, the mastermind behind mita sneakers. Kunii has played a huge role in shaping sneaker culture, working on everything from global collaborations to curating some of the best in-line sneaker releases in Japan. With this project, he’s diving deep into ASICS’ archives to bring back legendary silhouettes with a new-school twist.

One of the highlights of this revival is the GEL-YETI TOKYO HI—the latest addition to the line-up after the GEL-LYTE III. This model is based on an after-sport shoe from the TRANSCEND series, originally released in 2000. It was initially designed for trail runners to slip into after races, giving their feet a much-needed break. But over time, the shoe’s unique, functional silhouette caught the attention of sneakerheads and streetwear lovers, eventually evolving into a full-blown lifestyle sneaker in 2003.

For this second edition, the GEL-YETI TOKYO HI has been upgraded with thoughtful details that make it even more wearable. It now features shoelaces with stoppers for easy on and off, a cork insole for extra comfort, and GORE-TEX® technology to keep your feet dry, no matter the weather. Whether you’re braving rainy streets or just flexing your style, this shoe has you covered.

With its bold design and top-tier functionality, the mita sneakers x ASICS GEL-YETI TOKYO HI GTX “GORE-TEX” is a statement piece that blends sneaker heritage with everyday versatility. It’s the perfect mix of performance, style, and comfort—all wrapped up in one seriously cool package.

mita sneakers x ASICS GEL-YETI TOKYO HI GTX “GORE-TEX”
Colour: BLACK/BLACK
Style Code: 1203A707-001
Price: ¥34,100
Sizes (cm): 24.0, 25.0, 26.0, 27.0, 28.0, 29.0, 30.0

The mita sneakers x ASICS GEL-YETI TOKYO HI GTX “GORE-TEX” is now available at mita sneakers, Herringbone Footwear, and other ASICS retailers across Japan. To stay up to date, make sure you sign up to our newsletter. For other SNEAKER features, click here.

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