The Drop: adidas By Raf Simons Detroit Runner
Business up top, party down below.
Muted tones, clean lines and a futuristic sole fuse together for adidas by Raf Simons' new drop of the Detroit Runner. Taking elements from two clashing sneaker trends, Raf Simons' unique hybrid takes the classic plimsoll silhouette and places it atop a chunky dad trainer sole, the best of both worlds we think.
The Belgian designer’s collaboration with German sportswear giant adidas started in 2013 when he revived our love of classic styles such as the Stan Smith. The ex-intern of Walter Van Beirendonck who bypassed Antwerp to start his own label has always strived for innovation. He designs for ‘confident outsiders’ which is evident in his avant-garde sneaker designs that subtly push the boundaries of style.
Priding himself on individuality, Raf Simons often takes inspiration from the Nineties-era and the ‘frustrations of youth’ when creating his own label, as well as the fashion houses he has been creative director of. The dad sneaker trend as we know has been dominating runways for the last few seasons, but the Adidas x Raf Simons collab has been producing ‘ugly’ sneakers for some time such as the Ozweego and Response Trail Runner.
The new drop of the Detroit Runner maintains its classic canvas upper and thick rubber sole with the addition of a metallic panel on the outside. Sticking to softer tones of green, grey and black, the contrasting soles are more subtle than previous creations from this iconic collaboration.
Launching on Thursday 30th August, the Detroit Runner will be available online and in our flagship store, South Molton Street and Browns East, Club Row.
Words by Alexandra Oliver