Nike x READYMADE Blazer Mid

Nike and READYMADE is set to launch their first collaborative project in the form of the Blazer Mid. The Japanese brand, led by designer Yuta Hosokawa, is known for a creative ethos that incorporates vintage fabrics and upcycling processes, adding unique value to their products.

“With DYI as our theme, we deconstructed the Blazer and recreated it without losing sight of its DNA” says Hosokawa whose love for basketball made him chose this classic as a canvas for creativity, shifting boundries from sport and culture. “I have been playing basketball since I was in third grade. The first pair of shoes that I bought for myself were Nikes, actually that’s how I came to like fashion.”

The result is disruptive, the Nike x READYMADE Blazer Mid takes a layered approach and carries a handcrafted feel. The midsole custom texture stands out, the added volume was designed using clay moulds in a repeated trial and error process to figure out the right balance with the upper and overall visual of the shoe.

The Swoosh is a 1971 version of the logo, thinner and longer, that is only half-stiched to the upper. Other unique details include exposed foam on collar and tongue, triple shoelaces, rubber outsole made with about 15% Nike Grind and a READYMADE logo at the heel.

Nike Grind is a collection of materials originating from Nike manufacturing scrap, unsellable products and worn-out sneakers that would have otherwise entered the waste stream.