Cop Till You Drop: Our Favorite Shoe Releases in 2019
It's been another memorable year for sneakerheads around the world. From retros and classic models reimagined to collaborations and original silhouettes, there's a flavor for everyone, and we were fortunate enough to play a part in some notable releases while orchestrating a few on our own. To recap this year of footwear excellence, here are five of our favorites.
CLOT x fragment design x Nike: Air Force 1 "Black Silk"
Our last collaboration with Nike this year might also be the biggest. With a hand from Hiroshi Fujiwara, we released a distinctive black colorway of the coveted CLOT Silk Royale Air Force 1s. The shoe's design represents the balance between externalism and internalism, and hidden under the peelable black silk exterior is a red embossed interior, with both layers featuring the iconic lightning bolts from fragment design.
Air Jordan: Jordan 1 Retro High "Travis Scott"
No sneaker list is ever complete without at least a pair of 1s, and the 1s that left the biggest impression this year were the ones by La Flame. Crazy colorways, extravagant materials, custom embroidery - we've seen it all, but what we don't see every day is the Nike Swoosh backward, so give credit to Cactus Jack for pulling it off.
Converse x Chinatown Market: UV Chuck 70
Chinatown Market is all about positivity, and you can see this mindset come to life as the creators have their share of fun with products and collaborations. These vibrant experimental Chuck 70s follow the same approach, and the result is unlike anything we've ever seen. A pair of sneakers that transform color under the sun? Just that thought alone puts a smile on our face.
Sacai x Nike: LD Waffle "Blue Multi"
This playful masterpiece by Chitose Abe made waves the moment it debuted on the runway in Paris last year and left some big shoes to fill (no pun intended) for all the collaborations that followed. There are plenty of rumors on more colorways releasing next year, but the original will always have a special place in our hearts.
Air Jordan: Jordan 11 Retro Playoffs "Bred"
Perhaps one of the most recognizable colorways and silhouettes of any Jordan Brand sneaker, the "Bred" 11s have seen four retro releases since its debut. No one is complaining about another opportunity to own a piece of history, as these were the same classic models worn by the GOAT winning his first NBA championship upon returning from retirement.
