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Converse Revives Its Archive with New Running-Inspired Styles

Derrick Narciso
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Converse Revives Its Archive with New Running-Inspired Styles

Converse is reviving its rich running heritage with a modern twist, introducing three new lifestyle models: the Wave Trainer, Omni Trainer, and Omega Trainer. Drawing inspiration from the brand’s archival running shoe designs of the 1980s, these styles seamlessly blend vintage character with contemporary functionality. The result is a fusion of nostalgia and innovation, designed for both sport and everyday life.

The Industry’s Most Storied and Experimental Archive

With over 10,000 items, Converse’s archive stands as a testament to decades of bold experimentation, creative risks, and groundbreaking sneaker designs. Since 1908, this living collection has shaped the brand’s identity, preserving everything from early canvas sneakers to cutting-edge collaborations. More than just a historical record, the archive serves as an endless source of inspiration, fueling creativity for designers, artists, musicians, and athletes alike.

From the beginning, Converse has pushed boundaries and redefined tradition. Rather than simply replicating past designs stitch-for-stitch, the brand reinvents them—merging elements from different eras to create something entirely fresh and unexpected.

Retro Running, Reimagined

The Wave Trainer, Omni Trainer, and Omega Trainer exemplify Converse’s ability to honor its past while embracing the future. These retro-inspired silhouettes invite wearers to experience the brand’s running legacy through a lifestyle lens. Converse’s history in performance footwear dates back to the 1930s with the debut of the Converse Racer, marking the start of an ongoing journey of innovation. Today, the brand draws from this legacy to craft modern interpretations of classic designs.

The Wave Trainer reimagines Converse’s 1989 running silhouette, featuring a premium dual-layer suede and sport mesh upper. Authentic colorways pulled straight from the archive enhance its nostalgic appeal, while an embroidered Star Chevron logo and tonal reflective overlays complete the look. Built for all-day comfort, the Wave Trainer incorporates a CX foam sock liner, CX foam midsole, and a PU Strobel for superior cushioning. A traction rubber outsole—modeled after styles from the archive—adds an extra touch of authenticity.

The Omni Trainer and Omega Trainer follow a similar philosophy, pulling inspiration from Converse’s historic catalogue. The Omni Trainer, influenced by the 1984 Converse Equinox, features a durable sport nylon ripstop upper with suede overlays, delivering both resilience and a classic athletic aesthetic. A CX foam midsole and sock liner enhance comfort and support.

Meanwhile, the Omega Trainer channels the spirit of the 1984 Thunderbolt and the 1985 Converse Gazelle. Its woven poly sport upper, combined with suede detailing and a lightweight EVA midsole, ensures comfort without unnecessary bulk.

All three styles will be available starting the week of February 17 at converse.com and select retailers.

Wade All City 13 ‘Interstellar’

Derrick Narciso
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Wade All City 13 ‘Interstellar’

We celebrate another milestone in the Way of Wade basketball performance line with the launch of the 13th edition of the Wade All City. Showcased in the stunning ‘Interstellar‘ colorway. This release not only upholds the brand’s legacy of innovation but also redefines the boundaries of design and functionality.

From the moment you see it, the heel counter commands attention. Inspired by moonrock craters and lunar caves. Its intricate textures seamlessly extend to the bottom of the heel sole. This creates a visually striking and performance-driven design. More than just aesthetics, the shoe incorporates GCU—Way of Wade’s premium rubber compound. Paired with a moon boot-inspired traction pattern. This combination ensures exceptional grip and durability, particularly in the heel area.

Meanwhile, the durable, icy rubber outsole features multi-directional pods and an internal herringbone pattern. Enhancing both flexibility and traction. The extended medial and lateral traction zones work in harmony with the innovative Euro plate TPU. Making this shoe an excellent choice for players who rely on quick side steps and Euro steps—just like Dwyane Wade himself.

Cushioning takes performance to the next level with semi-caged full-length BOOM insoles. Designed for maximum comfort. These insoles strike the perfect balance between shock absorption and energy return. Lockdown and containment are optimized through a combination of woven TPU in the forefoot and lightweight flexible VAJRA skin technology. This fusion of materials ensures durability, support, and versatility for players of all positions. Furthermore, the mesh tongue features large pores for optimal breathability.

Moreover, the upper design pays homage to lunar exploration. Its sleek, astronaut-inspired white exterior is accented with signature Way of Wade branding and storytelling logos. That blends aesthetics with performance-driven intent. With its blend of cutting-edge technology and innovative design, the Wade All City 13 is poised to be a standout addition to the Way of Wade lineup.

Lastly, The Wade All City 13 is now available for purchase at wayofwade.com, retailing at $241 AUD.

Juliana Salazar x ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14

Jay Mijares
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Juliana Salazar x ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14

Juliana Salazar has been shaping the style game behind the scenes for some of the most influential brands out there—Aimé Leon Dore, Ganni, Tiffany & Co. and StockX, just to name a few. But now, she’s stepping into the sneaker world in a major way, linking up with ASICS. If her 2023 GEL-KAYANO 14 photoshoot caught your attention, consider that just the teaser—her latest move is even bigger.

Now, Juliana is stepping into the spotlight with her own sneaker. She and ASICS just announced the Juliana Salazar GEL-KAYANO 14, dropping on February 8. It’s a perfect fusion of her distinct style and ASICS’ legendary performance-meets-lifestyle design.

Her connection with ASICS started with a fresh take on the brand’s motto—“Anima Sana In Corpore Sano” (aka “A Sound Mind in a Sound Body”)—so it’s only right that this phrase is stamped inside the shoe. As for the design? Think effortless cool: soft “Vanilla Ice” and “Eucalyptus” tones, with a sharp cyan blue hit at the heel to tie it all together. Juliana describes it as the “perfect balance of style and functionality,” and honestly, she nailed it.

ASICS brought Juliana on board because she knows how to style the GEL-KAYANO 14 like no one else. So it makes perfect sense that her first collab is built for versatility. Whether you’re dressing them up, keeping it low-key, or throwing them on for a quick flex, these kicks do it all.

The Juliana Salazar x ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14 drops on February 8 for $240. Get ready—these won’t sit for long.  To stay up to date, make sure you sign up to our newsletter. For other SNEAKER features, click here.

H BEAUTY & YOUTH x ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14

Derrick Narciso
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H BEAUTY & YOUTH x ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14

The H BEAUTY & YOUTH x GEL-KAYANO 14 reimagines the iconic silhouette with a refined, minimalist twist, seamlessly blending retro performance aesthetics with modern elegance. Crafted with premium materials and a sophisticated neutral-toned palette, this collaboration highlights the timeless appeal of GEL technology and ASICS’ signature craftsmanship. Launching locally on February 7, it delivers a perfect balance of style and performance.

Fantastic Four: First Steps Official Teaser Trailer

Kevin Smith
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Fantastic Four: First Steps Official Teaser Trailer

Marvel‘s first family takes its first steps back into the MCU with the debut trailer of the upcoming “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” movie. The Fantastic Four is one of the biggest franchises alongside the Avengers & X-Men in the Marvel universe.

The first footage was originally shown back at D23 last year in which got fans excited, and now everyone can finally enjoy this retro vibe that Jack Kirby originally created.

Directed by Matt Shakman, The Fantastic Four: First Steps stars Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm / Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm / Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm / Thing. They’re joined by Julia Garner as Shalla-Bal / Silver Surfer and Ralph Ineson as Galactus, along with Paul Walter Hauser, Natasha Lyonne, and John Malkovich.

The official synopsis for The Fantastic Four: First Steps reads, “Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces Marvel’s First Family—Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn) and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) as they face their most daunting challenge yet. Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.”

fantastic four official movie poster

Now fans can sit back and enjoy this first look at the upcoming movie which is due to hit cinemas on July 25th 2025.

Let us know what you think below. Are you excited for this one or are you starting to get over all the MCU movies?

HAVEN x ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 10.1

Derrick Narciso
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HAVEN x ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 10.1

ASICS and HAVEN team up for the first time to launch the GEL-NIMBUS™ 10.1, a bold fusion of innovation and craftsmanship that reimagines the classic silhouette through a unique lens of duality. With a striking split-color palette inspired by urban light and shadow, layered mesh and synthetic leather textures, and cutting-edge performance technology, this collaboration seamlessly blends high-tech precision with natural elements. The result is a design that feels both bold and refined. The GEL-NIMBUS™ 10.1 drops locally on February 7.

mita sneakers x adidas Originals Radlander

Jay Mijares
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mita sneakers x adidas Originals Radlander

The adidas Originals Radlander is the latest collaboration from mita sneakers, created as part of the adidas Consortium—a global project that brings adidas together with sneaker retailers from all over the world. This partnership has produced some of the most iconic, innovative designs in sneaker culture, and the Radlander is no exception.

It all ties back to the adidas EQUIPMENT series, which first dropped in 1991 with the motto “for all athletes.” The idea was simple: create sneakers that help athletes perform at their best. But the adidas EQUIPMENT series didn’t just focus on performance—it set the gold standard for functionality and innovation in athletic footwear.

Often called “The best of adidas,” the adidas EQUIPMENT line completely changed the game in the early ’90s. It was all about pushing the limits, developing top-tier models for every sport, and using the most advanced tech available at the time.

Fast forward to 1998, and one of the standout designs from the series made its debut—a classic adventure shoe that blended practicality with style. This technical model featured a bold design with a shroud covering the instep, plus cutting-edge features like “FYW (FEET YOUR WEAR),” which supports natural foot movement, and “adiDRY,” a waterproof function that keeps your feet dry and comfortable no matter where you go.

The sneaker wasn’t just practical—it also became a huge hit in Japan’s streetwear scene, earning cult status among sneakerheads and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Now, mita sneakers is bringing back the vibe with a fresh take on this legendary design. This release builds on the concept of the SEEULATER, a collaboration between adidas and mita sneakers that came out in 2016.

The Radlander stays true to its roots with colourways inspired by ’90s outdoor gear, but it’s been updated for today with some modern upgrades. Shoelace stoppers make it easy to adjust the fit on the go, while a breathable, moisture-wicking cork insole keeps your feet fresh and comfy all day long.

This long-awaited revival combines everything we loved about the original with a polished, brushed-up finish. The best part? It’s exclusive to mita sneakers, so you won’t find this masterpiece anywhere else. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the adidas EQUIPMENT series or just love a good retro-inspired sneaker, the Radlander is one you don’t want to miss.

mita sneakers x adidas Originals Radlander

Colour: NIGHT INDIGO/BRIGHT BLUE/GRAY
Style Code: JP9852
Price: 27,500円
Sizes (cm): 24.0cm〜29.0cm･30.0cm

Colour: BLANCH CARGO/IVORY/PUTTY GREY
Style Code: JP9853
Price: 27,500円
Sizes (cm): 24.0cm〜29.0cm･30.0cm

The mita sneakers x adidas Originals Radlander are now available at mita sneakers and Herringbone Footwear. 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 “MUSHROOM”

Jay Mijares
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0
mita sneakers x ASICS GEL-YETI TOKYO HI “MUSHROOM”

ASICS is bringing back some of its most iconic models with a modern twist—and it all starts in Japan.

This special project is led by Shigeyuki Kunii, the creative director of mita sneakers. Kunii’s known for working on everything from big global collaborations to cool in-line projects here in Japan.

The idea? To take inspiration from the brand’s archives and reimagine classic designs for today, creating something new while staying true to the original vibe.

After the  GEL-LYTE III series, the spotlight is now on the GEL-YETI—a super-hyped sneaker first released in 2000. It was originally made to help your feet recover after trail running competitions. Over time, its bold and functional design, inspired by the TRANSCEND series, caught on in streetwear culture, and by 2003, it was all about lifestyle.

Now, the GEL-YETI is back in a fresh “MUSHROOM” colourway, inspired by earthy tones. It’s been updated with modern features like shoelaces with stoppers for easy wear and a cork insole with antibacterial, deodorizing, and moisture-wicking properties.

The result? A sneaker that’s as stylish as it is functional, perfect for standing out on the streets.

mita sneakers x ASICS GEL-YETI TOKYO HI “MUSHROOM”

Colour: WALNUT/BLACK
Style Code: 1203A705-020
Price: ¥26,400
Sizes (cm): 23.0, 24.0, 25.0, 26.0, 27.0, 28.0, 29.0, 30.0

The mita sneakers x ASICS GEL-YETI TOKYO HI “MUSHROOM” 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.

361º JOKER 1 ‘ACE’

Derrick Narciso
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361º JOKER 1 ‘ACE’

Today, we’re spotlighting the first-ever signature shoe from Nikola Jokic. A player I consider the best in the NBA right now. Inspired by the Joker’s love for horses and horse racing, the 361º Joker 1 ‘ACE’ blends the essence of a Chelsea boot with the functionality of a horse saddle. This design sets it apart from traditional bulky big-man shoes. Offering a sleek and speedy profile that’s both eye-catching and performance-driven.

At first glance, the upper impresses with what feels like premium leather and suede. Interestingly, these materials are actually pleather, providing the look of thick leather but with a lighter, more durable finish—a subtle nod to basketball sneakers from the ’90s and early 2000s. The leather toe cap features a strategically placed black Joker logo, which pairs beautifully with the lateral black leather side panels and a suede medial panel. Adding to the storytelling, the side panels are embossed with intricate Serbian ethnic symbols, reflecting Jokic’s heritage and metallic rivets with his signature and Joker logo.

Furthermore, the tongue is another standout feature. Elastic, supportive, and ultra-breathable. It’s designed with large perforations for optimal airflow. At the top, a quilted leather patch with a printed 361° logo and the phrase “DREAM CATCHER” adds a premium touch. Lockdown is achieved through a gusseted tongue, beaded laces, and a TPU grill-like heel counter. Which also includes saddle-inspired leather stitching for added detail. Up close, the clean lines reveal a wealth of textures and design elements that tell a compelling story.

Also, when it comes to performance, the Joker 1 doesn’t disappoint. The tried-and-true caged Quick CQtech midsole foam delivers excellent cushioning. While the Diamond Grip rubber outsole provides exceptional traction on all court surfaces. The outsole also incorporates Serbian Ethnic Symbols as part of the traction design. Which not only adds cultural significance but surprisingly enhances grip. Meanwhile, an arch-stabilizing torsion plate provides multi directional stability and support. For convenience, a pull tab is located on the saddle-like upper of the heel counter. Making it easy to slip the shoe on.

361º has come a long way in sneaker innovation. The Joker 1 is a testament to that progress. Because of its supportive and lightweight nature, it will perform exceptionally well for players of all positions. It will double as a stylish lifestyle sneaker. Offering a refreshing alternative to the current TPU-dominated basketball shoe market.

They run true to size but fit snug. Wide-footers should definitely go half a size up. The ACE colorway, along with the new Joker colorway, is now available at 361sport.com for $215 AUD—an incredible value for a flagship signature sneaker.

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

Converse Valentine’s Day Pack

Derrick Narciso
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0
Converse Valentine’s Day Pack

Converse kicks off Valentine’s Day 2025 with a charming collection that celebrates love in style. Featuring bold, romantic twists on the classic Chuck, each design blends eye-catching details with everyday comfort, making them perfect for gifting or indulging yourself.

You can shop the collection starting January 17 at select stores and online at converse.com.au

Chuck Taylor 70 Valentines Hi (Egret, White): RRP $160
Chuck Taylor Lift Valentines Low (Red) RRP: $150
Chuck Taylor Valentines Lo (Black) RRP: $140
Chuck Taylor 70 Valentines Lo (Jelly) RRP: $160
Chuck Taylor Valentines High (White) RRP: $140
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