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Review: DLO 1 ‘JAY FLOW’

Sneakers

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February 1, 2026

Here are three reasons why the Way of Wade DLO 1 remains the best-performing value sneaker for guards in 2026.

Today, we’re breaking down the Way of Wade DLO 1 in the “Jay Flow” colorway. Priced at $119 USD on wayofwade.com, this shoe continues to punch well above its weight.

First, let’s talk fit.
The DLO 1 runs true to size with a narrow profile. However, wide-foot players should size up half a size for better comfort.

1. Full-Length BOOM Midsole = Elite Responsiveness

The DLO 1 uses a full-length BOOM midsole, caged at the heel by a Light Foam Ultra heel carrier. As a result, the shoe feels highly responsive while absorbing impact efficiently.
Even better, the midsole sits low to the ground. This delivers excellent court feel, making the DLO 1 ideal for quick, shifty guards who rely on speed and control.

2. PRO LOC BAR for Lockdown and Stability

Next is the PRO LOC BAR system. This extended shank plate, paired with a TPU support cage, creates elite foot lockdown.
More importantly, it prevents ankle roll, improves torsional rigidity, and keeps your foot secure during hard cuts and explosive moves.

3. TUFF RB Outsole with Top-Tier Traction

Finally, the TUFF RB outsole seals the deal. It delivers reliable traction, even on dusty courts.
What really sets it apart is durability. The rubber compound is tough enough for outdoor play, making the DLO 1 one of the most versatile guard shoes on the market.

Final Verdict

In short, the Way of Wade DLO 1 still offers elite performance, durability, and value in 2026.
Add in the graffiti-inspired “Jay Flow” colorway, and you get a shoe that looks just as good as it plays.

If you’re a guard looking for your next basketball kicks, the DLO 1 deserves a serious look.

You can check-out our last feature here.

Converse SHAI Ares Gray

Sneakers

Derrick Narciso

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January 30, 2026

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On Thursday, January 30 at 10:30am, Converse officially launches the latest SHAI signature colourway, ARES GRAY. This release marks a powerful new chapter in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s debut signature sneaker with Converse.

Moreover, the ARES GRAY colourway draws direct inspiration from Shai’s son, Ares. The design reflects the soft grey tone of his eyes, while a fully tonal execution delivers a sleek, fluid look. As a result, the sneaker feels refined, modern, and effortlessly wearable.

In addition, Converse balances sharp lines with understated detailing. The muted grey palette enhances versatility without sacrificing personality. Simply put, this colourway speaks to both performance and lifestyle wear.

Most importantly, fans can now purchase the Converse SHAI ARES GRAY both online and in-store, giving sneaker collectors the chance to experience the craftsmanship up close.

Availability

Converse.com.au
Converse Chadstone – Melbourne
Converse Emporium – Melbourne
Converse Sylvia Park – Auckland, NZ
Foot Locker AU & NZ (in-store & online)
Rebel Sport AU (in-store & online)
Courtside Melbourne (in-store & online)

RRP: $260 AUD

UP THERE x adidas Consortium ‘MELBOURNE’

Sneakers

Jay Mijares

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January 28, 2026

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UP THERE x adidas Consortium ‘MELBOURNE’

UP THERE and adidas Consortium link up for their first ever collaboration and it’s a love letter to Melbourne in sneaker form. Introducing the ADIDAS MELBOURNE, a brand new silhouette created specifically for the legendary City Series. Built from the ground up, this release proudly represents UP THERE’s hometown with a deep dive into adidas history and a sharp eye on modern wearability.

The design pulls from two key pieces of adidas heritage. Breathable mesh is taken from the iconic Rod Laver tennis shoe, while detailing is inspired by a rare running spike used during the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Unearthed from the adidas archives during the research phase, this historical reference anchors the sneaker firmly in the city’s past while pushing it forward as something entirely new.

The clean white and green palette comes straight from the original 1956 spike, finished with subtle shading to mimic the natural patina seen on vintage pairs that collectors have carefully stored and treasured for decades. It feels aged in the best way, nostalgic without trying too hard.

Comfort hasn’t been overlooked either. A padded leather lining teams up with a performance insole borrowed from the adidas skateboarding line, delivering everyday wearability with a premium feel. The foam tongue nods to the vintage Australian made adidas ROME and is finished with a special label reading MADE BY UP THERE, sealing the collaboration with quiet confidence.

Branding stays tasteful and understated. Bright green lace tips and insoles act as subtle signatures, giving those in the know a clear nod to UP THERE’s creative role in shaping the model.

The UP THERE x adidas Consortium ‘MELBOURNE’ drops at UP THERE with in store release on January 29 at 10:00AM AEDT and online release on January 30 at 6:00PM AEDT.

This is Melbourne through an adidas lens. Thoughtful, archival and built to be worn. Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates and exclusive drops. For other SNEAKER features, click here.

REVIEW: 361º AG Vl ‘ION’

Sneakers

Derrick Narciso

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January 25, 2026

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Aaron Gordon officially returns to the hardwood in style with his latest signature sneaker, the 361º AG Vl in the ‘ION’ colourway. Right out of the box, the AG6 delivers a neutral-friendly fit, running true to size and accommodating most average foot shapes with ease.

More importantly, the standout upgrade comes from the all-new C-FLOW midsole foam. This setup provides elite responsiveness and shock absorption, allowing you to truly feel the energy return on every jump, landing, and rebound. As a result, the AG6 is perfectly tuned for explosive athletes who thrive above the rim.

In addition, 361º reinforces stability with an integrated translucent 3D TPU medial wall and shank plate. Which actively prevents rollovers while promoting excellent torsional support during aggressive lateral movements.

Underfoot, the Diamond GRIP outsole mirrors the natural contours of the foot and features circular traction zones for enhanced court feel. While the traction performs well indoors, frequent wiping is necessary due to dust pickup. However, the medium-density rubber compound truly shines outdoors. Offering durability and consistent grip on concrete courts.

Up top, lightweight and flexible synthetic materials keep the shoe agile. While breathability is focused through the mesh tongue. Lockdown feels secure thanks to a midfoot gusseted tongue. Paired with an internal heel counter and racing bucket seat–style padding that cradles the foot during hard cuts and landings.

At just $99 USD, the 361º AG Vl delivers outstanding on-court performance and value for a modern signature basketball sneaker. The AG6 ‘ION’ is available now via 361sport.com. Making it one of the best budget-friendly performance hoop shoes on the market today.

You can check-out our last feature here.

ASICS x Miyake Design Studio HYPER TAPING™︎

Sneakers

Julian Pauncz

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January 21, 2026

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ASICS x Miyake Design Studio HYPER TAPING™︎

ASICS and ISSEY MIYAKE are coming together for the first time on a footwear collaboration, unveiling HYPER TAPING™, set to release during the Spring Summer 2026 season. Launching through ASICS, ISSEY MIYAKE, and select global retailers, the project represents a meeting of two Japanese brands united by shared values of craftsmanship, innovation, and functional design.

ISSEY MIYAKE, founded in 1970 by legendary designer Issey Miyake, is one of Japan’s most influential fashion houses. The brand is globally recognised for its experimental approach to clothing, where technology, material innovation, and the human body are central to the design process. Rather than following trends, ISSEY MIYAKE focuses on timeless design systems that evolve with the wearer. Today, this philosophy is carried forward by Miyake Design Studio (MDS), the brand’s in-house research and design team that continues to explore new forms of clothing through movement, structure, and everyday functionality.

Built on years of mutual respect developed through product creation in Japan, the collaboration aligns ASICS’ performance-driven philosophy, guided by “A Sound Mind in a Sound Body”, with the experimental design mindset of MDS. Together, the teams studied the human foot and movement, drawing on ASICS’ research-led expertise from the Institute of Sport Science to explore new possibilities in footwear.

First unveiled at Paris Fashion Week Men’s during the IM MEN SS26 show, HYPER TAPING™ reinterprets the iconic ASICS Stripes through the concept of “taping.” This idea is expressed through bold elastic bands that wrap around the upper, visually and functionally stabilising the foot while creating a strong design identity. Cushioned tongue wings and a refined ankle construction further enhance fit and comfort.

The silhouette takes inspiration from wrestling footwear, with an outsole that extends into the upper for added support and stability. Its structure references the gripping mechanics of a gecko’s foot, delivering strong traction alongside a striking visual profile. For everyday wearability, ASICS developed a wider, foot-shaped last, paired with a FLYTEFOAM PROPEL insole and Ortholite® sock liner, ensuring comfort despite the slim sole design.

Finished with a mixed leather and mesh upper, HYPER TAPING™ arrives in three colourways: fluorescent green, all-black, and all-grey. Designed to move seamlessly between performance and lifestyle, the collaboration presents a forward-looking approach to footwear rooted in long-term design thinking rather than trends.

The ASICS x Miyake Design Studio HYPER TAPING™︎ sneaker will be available globally from January 22, 2026, through selected ASICS stores, ASICS.com/au, and select retail partners for $340 AUD (Item Code: 1203A819.001/1203B189.020/1203B190.300 – Colour Name: Black/Black, Grey/Grey, Green/Blue).

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First K-Pop Act NBA All-Star

Events

Derrick Narciso

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January 20, 2026

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The National Basketball Association (NBA) and BIGHIT MUSIC, the HYBE label under global entertainment leader HYBE Corp., announced that breakout K-pop group CORTIS has joined Friends of the NBA. This is the league’s celebrity and influencer program across Asia.

Through this landmark partnership. CORTIS will spotlight the intersection of sports, music, and global youth culture. The five-member group will attend NBA games and major events. They will collaborate on original content, co-create NBA-branded apparel and merchandise. And take part in league-wide promotional campaigns that engage fans worldwide.

In addition, the NBA confirmed that CORTIS will perform at NBA Crossover, the league’s premier fan experience, running February 12–15 at the Los Angeles Convention Center during NBA All-Star 2026. In a historic first, CORTIS will become the first K-pop act to perform at NBA All-Star, headlining NBA Crossover Opening Night on February 12. More NBA All-Star appearances will be announced soon.

“Joining Friends of the NBA is a milestone we never imagined reaching so early in our journey,” said CORTIS. “We strive to color outside the lines, and that mindset aligns naturally with the NBA’s creative, boundary-pushing spirit. We’re excited to bring our energy to this collaboration and connect with fans through sports and culture.”

“Welcoming CORTIS into Friends of the NBA highlights the growing synergy between basketball and music,” said Wayne Chang, Managing Director of NBA Asia. “Both K-pop and the NBA inspire passion, creativity, and global fandom. Together with CORTIS, we will create unforgettable experiences for fans worldwide, starting at NBA All-Star in Los Angeles.”

CORTIS continues its rapid rise following a record-breaking debut EP. Entered the Billboard 200 at No. 15. This achievement made them the only rookie group of 2025 to reach the chart. The group surpassed 100 million streams in its first month and has built a global fanbase of over 17 million followers across TikTok and Instagram. Rolling Stone hailed CORTIS as “the coolest K-pop debut of 2025.”

This collaboration strengthens the NBA’s growing ties with K-pop, following partnerships with BTS star SUGA (NBA Ambassador since 2023), LE SSERAFIM, and ENHYPEN. Joining Friends of the NBA in 2024 and 2025.

Launched in 2022, Friends of the NBA connects influential celebrities and creators across the Asia-Pacific region with NBA events and programming. The project engages fans on a global scale.

Fans can sign up for updates at nba.com/CORTIS. They can also follow CORTIS on Weverse.

Lastly, tickets for NBA Crossover are on sale now at NBAEvents.com. VIP packages offer exclusive stage views and early venue access.

BALENCIAGA x NBA Collaboration: High Fashion Meets the Power of Basketball Culture

Fashion

Derrick Narciso

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January 19, 2026

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BALENCIAGA x NBA Collaboration: High Fashion Meets the Power of Basketball Culture

Balenciaga officially steps onto the hardwood with the BALENCIAGA | NBA Collaboration. A limited-edition capsule that fuses luxury fashion with the raw energy and collective spirit of professional basketball. Guided by Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli. The collaboration celebrates sport as a universal language of excellence, integrity, and respect. Where discipline, focus, and commitment define performance at the highest level.

Reflecting Balenciaga’s deep-rooted philosophy of dressing the body with intention. This collaboration channels basketball’s dynamic movement and cultural impact into a refined yet powerful fashion statement. As Piccioli explains, sport creates a shared space where people from diverse backgrounds unite under the same rules and goals. Forging connection through intensity and purpose.

Definitely, launching January 15, 2026, the BALENCIAGA | NBA Collaboration arrives as an exclusive release. Available in select Balenciaga stores worldwide and on Balenciaga.com. The gender-inclusive capsule spans ready-to-wear apparel, footwear, accessories, and small leather goods. Seamlessly blending Balenciaga’s signature silhouettes with unmistakable basketball influence.

Moreover, founded in 1946 and home to 30 teams across North America. The NBA stands as the world’s premier professional basketball league. This collection honors that legacy. While reimagining classic Balenciaga archetypes through sports-inspired volumes and proportions.

Furthermore, the capsule continues the Maison’s tradition of bold, unexpected collaborations with globally influential cultural institutions.

In addtion, the collection features long- and short-sleeved t-shirts, tracksuits, varsity jackets, and coach jackets. Crafted from premium materials including leather, nylon satin, regenerative cotton poplin, and Japanese denim.

Also, each piece is stamped with the number 10 – “le dix.” Referencing Balenciaga’s historic address on Avenue George V in Paris. As well as, anchoring the capsule firmly in Maison heritage.

Furthermore, color plays a defining role. With a striking palette of electric blue, scarlet, and white. And, inspired by the iconic NBA logo introduced in 1969.

Also, these tones are balanced with Balenciaga black, reinforcing the house’s timeless identity. Throughout the collection, NBA branding is boldly juxtaposed with Balenciaga’s marque and typography. Undoubtedly, creating a visual dialogue between sport and luxury.

Finally, the BALENCIAGA | NBA Collaboration is more than a fashion drop. It’s a cultural crossover where basketball identity meets high-fashion craftsmanship.

Review: ASICS GEL-NYC 2.0 SSHS

Sneakers

Derrick Narciso

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January 17, 2026

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Meet the ASICS GEL-NYC 2.0 SSHS “Sulphur Black”, affectionately nicknamed the “Shaolin ’93.” This release serves as a powerful tribute to New York City’s golden era of hip-hop and the legacy of the legendary Wu-Tang Clan. Instantly, the striking black and yellow colourway channels the iconic Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) album cover. Delivering unmistakable cultural impact from the very first glance.

My first ASICS pickup of 2026 is an absolute certified banger. It sets the tone for the year in a major way. Right out of the gate, ASICS makes a bold statement with one of the two debut silhouettes from its all-new ASICS Signature Series. Created in collaboration with H.D.S.T. (HAL Studios Design Thinking) and co-founder and creative director John Bouquet.

Additionally, starting at the mudguard and toe box. ASICS applies sulfur-toned tumbled leather with a sandpaper-like finish. Creating a gritty, raw texture that perfectly captures New York’s street-born aesthetic.

Meanwhile, the side panels showcase classic ASICS Tiger Stripes in a premium mix of black leather and suede. Elevating the detailing further, debossed ASICS “A” logos run along the outer stripes. Complemented by true metallic rivets on the yellow leather lace stays. To finish it off, reflective paint hits on the final lace holes subtly nod to New York’s industrial architecture and nighttime energy.

Furthermore, straight out of the box the pair arrives with flat black laces. While an additional set of black flat dotted laces allows for easy personalisation. Moving upward, a textured rubberised lace stay stretches across the tongue. This ends with an oblong black bubble featuring a printed ASICS logo. Flip the tongue over and you’ll find one of the standout details. A woven tag displaying ASICS’ core philosophy, “Sound Mind, Sound Body.” Alongside “The World Is Yours” text and a caricature illustration of the Earth.

Moreover, underneath the premium layers of leather, suede, and synthetics, a flexible yellow mesh base enhances breathability for all-day wear. Around the heel, a uniquely sculpted reflective heel counter proudly showcases GEL branding. Adding both visual interest and nighttime visibility.

Underfoot, ASICS delivers serious performance. A responsive matte black FF BLAST+™ midsole works in tandem with exposed GEL units in the forefoot and heel to provide exceptional cushioning and impact absorption.

Meanwhile, the TPU-based TRUSSTIC™ support system enhances torsional stability, while the podular rubber outsole with horizontal wavy traction ensures dependable grip across a variety of surfaces. A subtle grey speckled paint finish on the outsole ties the entire look together.

Overall, this is an incredible way to kick off 2026. Massive respect to ASICS, John Bouquet, and the HAL Studios design team for delivering such a strong and culturally charged debut—alongside its brown counterpart—to start the year on a high note.

Also, retailing at $280 AUD, the ASICS GEL-NYC 2.0 SSHS “Shaolin ’93” is available now via asics.com and halstudios.net.

Finally, if you grew up blasting Nas and Wu-Tang through your speakers, this is a must-have pair that deserves a spot in your rotation.

HSDT x ASICS GEL-NYC™ 2.0 “SSHS”

Sneakers

Julian Pauncz

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January 16, 2026

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ASICS links up with HSDT to introduce the GEL-NYC™ 2.0 SSHS, a new Signature Series project rooted in place, pace and everyday reality. Originally designed by Angelo Baque of Awake NY, the GEL-NYC™ was conceived as a love letter to New York City, blending ASICS’ performance running DNA with the layered textures, movement and attitude of the city’s streets. Built on that foundation, this updated silhouette sharpens the proportions, refines the comfort and leans deeper into a visual language pulled straight from NYC’s everyday uniform.

Titled The Architecture of Everyday Life, the project looks past the postcard moments and focuses on the infrastructure that quietly holds the city together. Scaffolding wrapped around ageing buildings. Steel beams, stairwells and cracked sidewalks. Mesh fences, utility grates and oxidised metal surfaces worn down by time and traffic. These details are not ornamental, they are functional. The HSDT x ASICS GEL-NYC™ 2.0 SSHS translates this industrial code into a sneaker designed for real movement, built to be worn, lived in and layered with the memory of its environment.

Shot entirely on location in New York, the campaign places the shoe on the feet of real New Yorkers moving through the city at its natural rhythm. Anchoring the story are hip-hop icons Nas and Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan, with each colourway drawing inspiration from their respective landmark debut albums. Illmatic and Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) were more than just records. They were documents of place, time and perspective, capturing the raw textures and energy of the city that shaped them.

Those same references flow through the GEL-NYC™ 2.0 SSHS. The tonal palettes reflect the physical environments those albums came from, grounding the shoe in authenticity rather than nostalgia. This is not a throwback for the sake of it. It’s a modern expression of New York’s everyday architecture, filtered through ASICS’ performance heritage and HSDT’s design lens.

The GEL-NYC™ 2.0 SSHS stands as a reminder that the most meaningful design often comes from what we pass by every day, unnoticed but essential.

The HSDT x ASICS GEL-NYC™ 2.0 SSHS shoe will be available globally from January 16, 2026, in unisex sizing through selected ASICS stores, ASICS.com/au, hsdt.net and select retail partners for $280 AUD (Item Code: 1203A896.750. Colourway: Sulphur/Black, 1203A896.200. Colourway: Mahogany/Black).

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

Converse Chucks in Love

Sneakers

Derrick Narciso

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January 12, 2026

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This Valentine’s Day, Converse is celebrating love in all its forms with the launch of its ‘Chucks in Love’ collection.

Designed to reflect how people express love today, from romantic partners and close friendships to family bonds and self-love, the range reimagines classic Chuck styles with playful, feel good details. Think heart shaped accents, shoe charms, bold patterns and distinctive stitching, all grounded in signature Converse DNA.

Spanning both adult and kids’ styles, Chucks in Love is made for gifting, matching moments or treating yourself, encouraging wearers to celebrate love however they define it.

The Converse Chucks in Love collection launches 12th January, available in stores and online.

ADULTS