RTFKT | GIZMODO.cz

After a short period of relative silence, the metaverse became a hot topic again in no small part thanks to Mark Zuckerberg’s and Meta’s most recent buzz, which, unsurprisingly, split people into camps again. Some say or are hoping that the metaverse is already dead and, along with it, the more controversial NFTs. If that were the case, it seems that nobody told luxury luggage maker RIMOWA about it because it seems that the marque will be diving right into this mess when others seem to be silently stepping out. RIMOWA has partnered with Nike-owned digital fashion brand RTFKT to bring its iconic luggage brand to the metaverse via two NFT drops, but RIMOWA fans can rest assured that they can still get this upcoming limited edition luggage in physical form as well.

Designer: RIMOWA x RTFKT

The metaverse will eventually happen and become our present, though many argue that we’re still ways off from making that a reality. Even more problematic are NFTs, which were supposed to bring the concept of unique ownership of goods from the physical world to the digital realm. Camps are still split on whether it’s a boon or a bane, but many companies have already put a stake down on those nascent ecosystems to appeal to early adopters, especially among designers and collectors.

While news about big brands embracing NFTs seems to have mellowed down a bit, RIMOWA is stirring things up again with a “phygital” campaign in partnership with RTFKT (pronounced “artifact”). The latter has been making a name for itself in bringing big brands into metaverse spaces, specifically via those highly-debated NFTs. “Phygital” is the new buzzword coined to describe products that are getting both a physical as well as a digital release, the latter usually through NFTs to ensure their uniqueness and exclusivity.

That’s probably a good thing for RIMOWA loyals that have a few geeky inclinations because the limited edition “Meta Artisan” Original Cabin Luggage is quite a looker. Its surface is covered with a pixelated “Anti-FUD” pattern print that looks like a corrupted QR code spread across the luggage. Only 888 of these will be made available, both digitally and physically, as a nod to the triple-digit figure that has become synonymous with good luck in the crypto community.

The collaboration will also produce 2222 WorkerBots NFTs that will be like collectibles for this virtual world made by RIMOWA and RTFKT. These admittedly cute robots won’t have physical counterparts, unfortunately, and you’ll only be able to enjoy their existence on AR platforms or digital displays. The unique-looking luggage could spark a bit of interest as well as controversy, as you won’t be able to buy the physical luggage separately and will have to buy the NFT version first for around $3,000 at a “forging” (redemption) event later on.

The post RIMOWA luggage jumps into the metaverse phygital market with RTFKT NFT collab first appeared on Yanko Design.

If you’re a sneakerhead in your real life, then you’ve got be ready for the coolest pair of sneakers in your virtual life too. That luxury comes courtesy of the Nike CryptoKicks for the metaverse worlds. And yes, don’t forget to lace them up while strolling in VR!

Nike had earlier filed seven metaverse-related trademark applications, clearly suggesting their affinity for the trending pop culture of virtual assets. In line with this future vision, the American multinational acquired RTFKT Studios, a digital fashion and 3D creation studio in December 2021. Now the first nectar of their creation is out for all to see. Yes, you know where this going, right?

Designer: RTFKT Studios

Nike and RTFKT’s first digital sneakers have been released and they call them the Nike CryptoKicks. It’s a design based on the Nike Dunk Genesis sneaker, and this is Nike’s foray into the world of NFTs, and eventually the metaverse. RTFKT labels this creation as the “Future of Sneakers” and we truly second that statement. Nike did hint at their interest in crafting digital sneakers and wearables back in November 2021, so after all this reveal isn’t a major surprise for keen followers.

People who own the RTFKT’s mysterious MNLTH digital box NFT which was airdropped for free to ones who have the Clone-X. There was some mystery around as to what the MNLTH cube actually holds, and now after almost three months we know one of its hidden gifts. The digital wearables can be shown off in the metaverse worlds as their look can be toggled via the collectible Skin Vials for different styles. For starters, the EVO X collection will kick off with eight different skins which can be beefed up with drip upgrades and special powers.

This virtual dunk silhouette gets an uber-futuristic bump-up with the metallic parts, a noticeably modified sole unit, and the paneling to match the swapping around of the screens for customization. CryptoKicks sneaker is going to be one of the many future releases in the pipeline and we can expect the skins library to grow exponentially too.

As Nike said at the launch of the CryptoKicks, “Nike is focused on potential ways to use blockchain technology to serve our consumers in the athletic footwear, apparel and equipment space. The MNLTH is just the start to a future of serving athletes in this space.”