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D23 2024 Recap

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It’s been a minute since we have done some pop culture recaps, so here we go! Time to go over some of the biggest news to come out of the D23 Expo that was held over the weekend in Anaheim, CA. There is a fair bit to unpack from the event, so here are some of the highlights from the D23 to get everyone excited for whats to come

Let’s start with all things Disney/Pixar

Moana 2 Official Trailer

Snow White Official Trailer

First look at Stitch in the live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch

Toy Story 5 Teaser

Mufasa: The Lion King Trailer

We also got announcements for The Incredibles 3, Frozen 3 and Zootopia 2 with release dates to come for these ones

Star Wars Updates

Over to Star Wars now and we got a first look at Skeleton Crew which is set to hit Disney+ on December 3. Set during the New Republic era, the years after Return of the Jedi, the plot for this series is set around 4 kids lost in the galaxy trying to make their way home. Jude Law is set to make his star wars debut as a force user named Jod Na Nawood.

Andor Season 2

We still don’t have a confirmed release date for Andor Season 2 beyond 2025, but D23 did give fans of the Rogue One prequel series some exciting new updates. First, star Diego Luna discussed how the 12-episode season (Andor‘s last) will follow Cassian Andor over a period of three years as he becomes a leader in the Resistance.

Then, exclusive footage revealed that at least two Rogue One characters would be returning: Ben Mendelsohn is back as villain Orson Krennic, and Alan Tudyk reprises his role as droid K-2SO.

The Mandalorian & Grogu

Star Wars returns to the big screen with The Mandalorian & Grogu, directed by Jon Favreau.

While the movie is just weeks into production, Favreau and producer and co-writer Dave Filoni brought footage to D23 to give us a taste of what’s next for Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his apprentice Grogu. Footage teased the return of Mando’s Razor Crest ship and Star Wars Rebels‘ Zeb Orrelios, as well as the Mandalorian and Grogu facing AT-AT walkers on a snowy planet (Hoth, anyone?).

Due to hit cinemas in May 2026

Marvel Studios Update

We first up got a new trailer for Agatha All Along which is a spinoff from the Wandavision series.

Kathryn Hahn will reprise her role as the witch Agatha Harkness and is joined in the show by costars Joe Locke, Patti LuPone, Aubrey Plaza, Sasheer Zamata, Ali Ahn, and Debra Jo Rupp.

The show will follow Hahn in the aftermath of WandaVision having to face a “magical gauntlet of trials” along the Witches Road as she seeks to gain her powers back.

Agatha All Along premiers on Disney+ on September 18th 2024

The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Fans at D23 got an exclusive sneak peek at the initial teaser trailer for Marvel’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps starring Pedro Pascal (Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm/The Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn (Johnny Storm/The Human Torch), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Ben Grimm/The Thing). This didn’t stop fans from recording it and posting it across social media though, and it can easily be found by searching.

The trailer is the same one shown at SDCC last month and is made from lots of test footage and conceptual pre-visualization reels. Still, what Marvel has on hand now with filming still ongoing is pretty impressive.

Daredevil: Born Again

Alongside Fantastic Four, Marvel’s Daredevil: Born Again sequel series also had its exclusive trailer leaked on the internet by phone-happy fans. Feel free to search, because we won’t be embedding the trailer for this one here either.

Serving as a continuation of the beloved Netflix Daredevil, Charlie Cox and his co-stars Vincent D’Onofrio (Kingpin), Deborah Ann Woll (Karen Page), and Elden Henson (Foggy Nelson) all return to make their official debuts into the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The trailer shown at D23 was jam-packed with surprises such as the return of Jon Bernthal’s Punisher and Wilson Bethel’s Bullseye. Alongside them was our first look at the costumed vigilante White Tiger.

Daredevil: Born Again premieres on Disney+ on March 1, 2025

Ironheart

2022’s Black Panther: Wakanda Forever introduced us to genius inventor Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne), who created her own suit of Iron Man-like armor. She returns to the MCU in the TV series Ironheart, set to premiere in 2025.

D23 attendees got to see some as-yet unreleased footage of Riri working on building herself a new suit, as well as a look at villain Parker Robbins/The Hood (Twisters‘ Anthony Ramos). The show also stars Alden Ehrenrich, Lyric Ross, Matthew Elam, Anji White, Manny Montana ,and Shea Couleé.

Ironheart is due for release in 2025 on Disney+

WADE 808 4 ULTRA FAMILY LOVE

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Experience the new WADE 808 4 Ultra in the stunning ‘Family Love’ colorway. These are the only WADE kicks with full-length drop-in BOOM insoles, providing a more explosive response and superior shock absorption. The drop-in midsoles offer customization and a lower base for improved court and ground feel. Micro tractions around the insoles ensure they attach securely to the shoe, making your foot and the WADE 808 4 Ultra feel like a single unit.

The shoe’s containment features include super flexible, breathable, and durable knitted uppers supported by  micro straps that act like seatbelts around the midfoot. Pores on the tongue and the lateral TPU wall enhance breathability, keeping your feet fresh throughout training sessions and games. Additionally, a midfoot velcro strap offers extra lockdown, and the TPU cage wrapping around the midsole converges at the back of the foot as a heel cup, providing additional support. The hard, durable rubber outsole offers unparalleled grip with multi-diagonal tractions.

The soccer cleats-inspired design of the Full Palm TPU and lightweight carbon fiber shank plate delivers fantastic support, energy return, and rigidity. Once again, WADE has improved the already impressive 808 line. The WADE 808 4 Ultra feels like an evolved and improved Kobe 8 shoe. If you prioritize cushioning, unparalleled lockdown, and reliable traction, these are the basketball kicks for you!

They run true to size; wide-footers should go half a size up. Retailing for $159 USD, they are now available at wayofwade.com.

For more performance basketball sneaker reviews, check-out our last feature HERE.

mita sneakers x ASICS GEL-LYTE™ III OG ‘TRICO 2024’

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In celebration of the upcoming 35th anniversary of the GEL-LYTE III in 2025, a special project has been unveiled featuring Shigeyuki Kunii, the esteemed creative director of mita sneakers. Kunii is renowned for his influential role in both global sneaker projects and domestic inline direction, making him an ideal choice for this milestone collaboration.

The GEL-LYTE III, first introduced in 1990, is a lightweight running shoe that epitomizes ASICS‘ sportswear innovation. It is particularly celebrated for its distinctive “split tongue” design, which divides the tongue into two large vertical sections, enhancing both comfort and fit.

The new edition, titled “TRICO 2024,” builds on the legacy of the “TRICO 2020” collaboration model created with mita sneakers to commemorate the GEL-LYTE III’s 30th anniversary. This latest version has been thoughtfully reimagined with a colour palette inspired by the upcoming summer Olympics in Paris, France.

Distinctive features of the mita sneakers x ASICS GEL-LYTE™ III OG “TRICO 2024” include a zippered tongue that offers both traditional lacing and slip-on convenience. The outsole showcases a unique “FAR EAST” graphic, symbolizing Japan from a global perspective and Ueno from the city centre. Additionally, the side of the tongue is adorned with a woven label featuring the producer’s tag, “Tokyo Kai.”

A standout detail of this edition is the incorporation of glow-in-the-dark GEL technology on the heel patch of the upper. This feature not only highlights the shoe’s advanced technology but also adds a striking visual effect.

With its special design elements and thematic inspiration, this limited edition from Japan is set to capture attention and generate excitement in the lead-up to the Paris Olympics.

The mita sneakers x ASICS GEL-LYTE™ III OG ‘TRICO 2024’ are now available both in-store and online at mita sneakers and Herringbone Footwear. 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.

It’s More Than Just Sneakers Gold Coast 2024 Recap

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For the first time on the Gold Coast, the It’s More Than Just Sneakers lifestyle tour visited PCYC Nerang on July 13th.

Our vendors brought an incredible selection of sneakers, covering every style from casual to basketball and even rare grails. In addition, we had a variety of homewares, collectibles, and other items that reflect our community’s passions.

We were thrilled to offer amazing giveaways and freebies, thanks to our generous sponsors who helped provide fantastic prizes.

Monster Energy wowed attendees with a well-set-up racing simulator, perfect for aspiring racers. They also hosted their challenging cornhole game, where participants had the chance to win prizes and enjoy a boost of energy.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and to the team at PCYC Nerang for their invaluable assistance. We truly appreciate your support.

Huge thank you to our sponsors whose unwavering support continues to elevate these gatherings and make them unforgettable.

AFEW Goods (Germany) – @afewgoods_
ABSNC (Singapore) – @absnc
ASICS Sportstyle Australia – @asics_sportstyle_au
Ayoub Lawyershttps://www.ayoublawyers.com.au/
CARNIVAL (Thailand) – @carnivalbkk
Cosmonauts Spacewear (Indonesia) – @cosmonautsspacewear
Crep Protect Australia – @crepprotect_au
Deuce Australia@deuceaustralia
eBay Australia – @ebayau
G-Shock Australia – @gshockoz
Indomie Australia – @indomieau
Jarritos Australia@jarritosau
JBL Australia@jblaustralia
Kicks Kase – @kickskase
LaceSpace – @lace.space
LIDS Australia@lids_australia
Limited Edt (Singapore) – @limitededt_sg
Monster Energy – @monsterenergy
Rhypla Builds – @rhypla
Saucony Originals Australia / New Zealand – @sauconyoriginalsaunz
Secret Fresh (Philippines) – @secretfreshph
Secret Sneaker Store@secretsneakerstore.official
Sole Emporium@thesoleemporium
Stance (USA) – @stanceofficial
The Gamesmen@thegamesmen
The Sneaker Laundry@thesneakerlaundryau
Under Armour Australia@underarmourau
UNLCKD@unlckd.official
2K Australia / New Zealand – @2k_anz

Next week, the It’s More Than Just Sneakers lifestyle tour continues in Brisbane on the 3rd of August at the city’s hottest nightclub, Zyon Brisbane. See our Facebook event for more information.

We look forward to seeing both new and familiar faces. Stay tuned for more updates on what’s coming next! For more details about vendor bookings or entry tickets, head over to our website https://www.thekickzstand.com.au/imjts. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter, so you can stay up to date! For other It’s More Than Just Sneakers or other Event features, click HERE.

Above The Clouds x ASICS GT-2160™

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ASICS is excited to drop the second version of their awesome collaboration with Australian retailer Above The Clouds, featuring the new GT-2160™ sneaker. (Click HERE to see the first version of the Above The Clouds x ASICS GT-2160™)

This time around, the Above The Clouds x ASICS GT-2160™ takes inspiration from the Japanese Maple tree, showing off some cool earthy colours on the upper and midsole.

They’ve mixed in some experimental materials to give this classic model a fresh and upgraded look, while still keeping its signature wavy forefoot and GEL cushioning for that top-notch comfort.

The new Above The Clouds x ASICS GT-2160™ sneaker are now available exclusively at Above The Clouds. If you’re looking to snag a pair, you can enter on the ASICS website from 9 a.m. AEST on July 23rd through the ASICS EQL platform. You’ll have until 9 a.m. AEST on July 27th to get your entry in.

Globally, the release is set for July 27th. In Australia, you can grab them at Up There, Laced, USG Store, Highs and Lows, Finesse, and Incu.

The Above The Clouds x ASICS GT-2160™ will be priced at $240 AUD. To stay up to date, make sure you sign up to our newsletter. For other ASICS features, click here.

361º DVD2 SMOOTHIE KING

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Introducing the 361º DVD 2 Smoothie King colorway, the second signature series collaboration between NBA veteran Spencer Dinwiddie and 361º!

You’ll immediately notice the sleek, low-to-the-ground design of the 361º DVD 2 Smoothie King. The upper is crafted from lightweight, durable TPU yarn, with containment provided mainly by the Qu!k Wrap lacing system. This system features TWO midfoot straps directly attached to the laces, working alongside a padded heel counter to offer a tailored, unparalleled lockdown for your foot.

The full-length Qu!kCQTech midsole, enclosed in transparent TPU and ENRG-X foam, delivers responsive energy return and rigidity. Stability is further enhanced by the Archlock plate underfoot and the extended outrigger, providing dependable support for quick side-to-side movements and preventing ankle rolls. The tire tread-inspired traction ensures excellent grip on both indoor and outdoor courts, and to me though, it looks like a circuit maze.

At $191 AUD, the 361º DVD 2 Smoothie King offers exceptional value. Its sleek design and Smoothie-inspired clean colorway looks great both on and off the courts. Equipped with 361º’s latest cushioning, lockdown tech, and low-to-the-ground court feels, these sneakers readily meets the demands of modern-day ballers. 

They run true to size, wide footers needs to go half a size up! Highly recommended for guards, shooting guards and small forwards. They are now available at 361sport.com!

For more performance basketball kicks review, check-out our last feature HERE!

ASICS GEL-FLAMME™

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Fresh from the Kiko Kostadinov Studios and drawing inspiration from classic archive net-burner styles like the GEL-Wahine™ II and the GEL-NETBURNER™ IGS II, the GEL-FLAMME™ boasts elongated ASICS stripes and a unique lacing track.

The iridescent Lycra material, prominently featured in the profile, captures the vibrant energy of modern netball players, whether young or old, professional or hobbyist. The shoe’s pearlescent finish complements its tactical design, with ASICS’ GEL cushioning strategically placed in the midsole to disperse impact forces effectively. Additionally, the AHARPLUS™ heel plug enhances durability for long-term use.

The GEL-FLAMME™ is available in two striking color combinations: gunmetal and mako blue. You can purchase the GEL-FLAMME™ starting Friday, July 19th, at ASICS and select retailers for $330 AUD.

For more sneaker releases, check-out our last feature HERE.

Up There x ASICS GEL-TERRAIN

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Let’s explore the latest collaboration between longtime partners Up There Store and ASICS Sportstyle with their stunning new release.

The sneakers arrive in a custom neon yellow box featuring grey leaf venation prints and a striking hot red silhouette of an Australian eucalyptus leaf. With ASICS and Up There branding, this packaging sets the stage for what’s inside.

Introducing the Up There and ASICS Gel-Terrain collab in the Purple/Lavender colorway. This model draws inspiration from ASICS’ trail running heritage and the vibrant hues of the Australian Bush. Perfect for both lifestyle wear and trail running, these sneakers are lightweight and supportive, crafted from fused and synthetic breathable materials.

Intricate details abound, including a subtle leaf venation print visible beneath the netting that extends to the heel. The dual tongue tags feature ASICS and Up There branding, complemented by a neon-yellow S carabiner—a nod to the trail running inspiration, though not meant for climbing. A black plastic lace lock ensures a quick and secure fit, and the package includes two extra pairs of laces in mauve and grey, each with contrasting tips.

Cushioning comes from the FlyteFoam midsoles and visible gel pods in the heel, while the thick, horizontally lugged rubber soles provide excellent traction on rugged terrain. The ‘Z’ shaped shank plate and midsole construction offer stability and a low-to-the-ground feel, rather than excessive softness and bounce.

This collaboration is another standout addition to the Up There and ASICS lineup. Its sleek silhouette and nature-inspired colorways make it a must-have for both style and functionality. These sneakers likely won’t remain on shelves for long, so act fast. For those with wider feet, definitely go half a size up.

Retailing at $280 AUD, they are now available at Up There’s online website and Store.

Nike SB Dunk Low x Futura Laboratories

We missed out on all the raffles, but luckily we secured a pair of the potential 2024 Sneaker of the Year from the safe and reliable platform, SNKRDUNK.

Before we our give our personal thoughts on these sneakers, let’s take a quick look at what makes this Nike SB Dunk special. This limited-release SB Dunk is a collaboration with the renowned graffiti artist Futura and his Futura Laboratories Studios. The official colorway is Bleached Aqua/Geode Teal White. The white mesh uppers are contrasted by printed graffiti panels based on Futura’s 1991 painting titled ‘colorforms.’

Colorforms

One cool feature is that the prints on the left and right pairs are different from each other. Additionally, only the medial side of the left pair has a unique random stitching. Hits of 3M are found on the tongue lace stay and the Nike logo on the heel. The sneakers come with unique teal and light purple two-tone laces, along with an extra pair of light purple laces. Contrasting teal stitching is found on the white cup sole with icy blue soles. Cushioning comes from the air zoom unit and crash pad in the insoles, which are adorned with the Nike SB Dunk Low and Futura signature branding. The same Futura signature is also found on the lateral sides of the heel, while the FL “Futura Laboratories” logo appears on the medial sides of the heel.

What do we think? The execution of this collaboration is well done. It pays homage to one of the greatest modern artists of our time and is unmistakably a Futura collab. Despite its awesome attributes, we don’t consider it the sneaker of the year yet. Maybe Dunks of the year. It will most likely end up in our Top 3 to 5 by the end of 2024.

They run snug due to thick tongue padding, so those with wide feet should go half a size up. Prices seem to be dropping, so if you’re interested, this is the best time to grab a pair at a reasonable price. You can use our SNKRDUNK affiliate link for an extra $20 AUD OFF your first order!

For more sneaker news check out our last feature HERE.

It’s More Than Just Sneakers Adelaide 2024 Recap

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Apologies for the delay, let’s dive into the highlights of the It’s More Than Just Sneakers Adelaide event that rocked on June 2nd, 2024.

Imagine a crisp winter morning in Adelaide, where sneakerheads and streetwear enthusiasts converged at the stylish Goodwood Community Centre. Despite being a more intimate affair, this venue brought a fresh, vibrant energy that resonated with everyone who stepped through the doors.

Our vendors showcased some seriously coveted kicks and streetwear staples, offering attendees a treasure trove of awesome finds. The raffle draw, powered by our fantastic sponsors, added an extra thrill with exciting giveaways and prizes that had everyone buzzing.

But what truly made this event stand out was the sense of community. Beyond the transactions, it was about forging connections with fellow aficionados who share a deep passion for sneakers and street culture. Conversations flowed freely, friendships were forged, and memories were made, making it a day filled with camaraderie and good vibes.

A massive round of applause goes to our dedicated Adelaide team whose meticulous planning and hard work made the event a seamless success.

And of course, a huge thank you to our sponsors whose unwavering support continues to elevate these gatherings and make them unforgettable.

AFEW Goods (Germany) – @afewgoods_
ABSNC (Singapore) – @absnc
ASICS Sportstyle Australia – @asics_sportstyle_au
Ayoub Lawyershttps://www.ayoublawyers.com.au/
CARNIVAL (Thailand) – @carnivalbkk
Cosmonauts Spacewear (Indonesia) – @cosmonautsspacewear
Crep Protect Australia – @crepprotect_au
Deuce Australia@deuceaustralia
eBay Australia – @ebayau
G-Shock Australia – @gshockoz
Indomie Australia – @indomieau
Jarritos Australia@jarritosau
JBL Australia@jblaustralia
Kicks Kase – @kickskase
LaceSpace – @lace.space
LIDS Australia@lids_australia
Limited Edt (Singapore) – @limitededt_sg
Monster Energy – @monsterenergy
Rhypla Builds – @rhypla
Saucony Originals Australia / New Zealand – @sauconyoriginalsaunz
Secret Fresh (Philippines) – @secretfreshph
Secret Sneaker Store@secretsneakerstore.official
Sole Emporium@thesoleemporium
Stance (USA) – @stanceofficial
The Gamesmen@thegamesmen
The Sneaker Laundry@thesneakerlaundryau
Under Armour Australia@underarmourau
UNLCKD@unlckd.official
2K Australia / New Zealand – @2k_anz

Next Stop: It’s More Than Just Sneakers Gold Coast, Queensland event coming on the 13th July, see our Facebook event for more information.

For more details about vendor bookings or entry tickets, head over to our website https://www.thekickzstand.com.au/imjts. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter, so you can stay up to date! For other It’s More Than Just Sneakers or other Event features, click HERE.