These MARVEL X Nike collab footwear concepts turn your favorite Avengers into dope sneakers

Little did I know the Loki color palette would look THIS good on footwear!

It’s not like there’s a shortage of Marvel merch out there… but designer Paul Parsons managed to concoct something that looks and feels so awesome I’m literally trying to manifest it into existence. Created with the help of MidJourney’s AI, these Marvel X Nike football sneakers capture the grandeur of some of the MCU’s most memorable heroes (and anti-heroes). Treading a fine line between being sporty footwear and an homage to a comic-book character, these football boots look exceptional on their own, even when observed without context. The series spans 9 different footwear models, dedicated to distinct characters from the Avengers movie… and Wolverine. Scroll down to see which one is your favorite!

Designer: Paul Parsons

The Spider-Man sneaker obviously uses the traditional color palette, with a liberal application of randomized lines to represent the friendly neighborhood web-slinger’s webbing. Notice how none of the sneakers actually use logos of the Marvel heroes (so as to avoid any copyright infringement, I suppose), but do wonderfully integrate Nike’s tick sign into the shoes to give them their unique character. I assume Nike’s much more liberal with fan-made concepts than Disney.

Iron Man and Black Panther tie in second place just because I have so much love for the characters in general. The former’s shoe has a lean design but with more ‘chunky’ 3D elements that give it an exoskeleton-like appeal, coupled with that signature metallic red and gold interplay that we love so much. The Black Panther shoe, on the other hand, relies on a more Afrofuturistic-leaning design that’s heavy on textures and lines, much like T’Challa and Shuri’s suits. The use of gold makes me guess these are for the new Black Panther in our lives.

Loki and Thor are arguably the most difficult to replicate. Given that it’s difficult to add any signature motifs like horns or hammers on the shoes, everything boils down to color themes, and the use of thunder in the latter’s artwork. I really have a newfound appreciation for the green and gold combo, which Parsons’ football sneaker concept utilizes beautifully. The golden studs near the heel and the golden tick mark really make the shoe stand out. With Thor, I’d much rather see the use of the square chainmail that was found in Thor’s sleeves in earlier movies. The shoe uses a white and red interplay, with lightning streaks to invoke the Norse God of thunder.

Hulk’s footwear treatment seems more on the side of realism, given that the proportions are still very human. A creative call on the designer’s part, I still quite like this one. There’s a bit of an acidic toxic aesthetic here that feels more akin to The Lizard here, but still, a job well done! The creases and lines on the shoe somewhat feel like sinews and muscles, without the exaggerated proportions of The Hulk. Maybe a little purple would do the trick, as is found in the hero’s (tattered but holding-together) pants.

Wolverine seemed like a bit of a wild card here, but I’ve always loved what Hugh Jackman brought to the role. He’s more Wolverine than Robert is Iron Man, if you ask me… and I know that’s a controversial hot take. Again, this concept stays on the lines of realism by not including any razor-sharp adamantium studs at the bottom of the footwear… but that yellow and black aesthetic is just instantly recognizable. It uses stripes that can be found in the original costume too, with a sharp tick mark ‘cutting’ through for extra impact.

We bring our collection to its conclusion with Groot and Thanos. The two non-human sources of inspiration in this collection. The Groot footwear (grootwear?) has a wonderfully woody appeal, with roots and twigs curling around each other the way they do on the woody superhero’s body. The shoe rests on a carpet of leaves too, completely honoring the theme. With Thanos, however, the shoe’s design misses the inclusion of the Infinity Stones… but there’s the signature purple and golden melange that is synonymous with the character’s purple skin and golden gauntlet. Lines around the shoe’s ‘chin’ resemble the creases found on Thanos’ chin too!

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Merrell Hydro Runner is a clog and sneaker in one for the rainy, windy outdoors

I am one of those people who prefer to stay indoors when it’s raining. The moment the rain starts to fall, you won’t get me to go outside (unless it’s really needed) and you’ll find me on the couch or in bed. But there are people out there who want to continue walking, running, or even trekking outside even if it’s wet and slippery outside. But of course they need gear that will protect them from accidents like slips and falls. It’s a bonus if said gear is fashionable and eco-friendly.

Designer: Merrell

Footwear brand Merrell is adding a new member to its 1TRL hiking line-up and this time it’s built to let users take on the wet and windy trails during the winter season. The Hydro Runner uses the brand’s trail running technology but adds lightweight fabrication as well as a water-resistant design so it can be used without fear of falling or slipping, whether you’re running, walking, or going on hikes while it’s wet outdoors. It’s basically a sneaker and clog in one with a breathable mesh sock added into the mix.

The breathable mesh keeps users’ toes from getting too hot but also provides additional protection against the elements. The shoes also have nylon pull tabs at the back so you can easily put it on or pull it off even with its enclosed fit. The soles also have good grips to protect you while you’re trekking with the outsoles having sticky, no-slip traction. In the middle you have a lightweight high rebound EVA foam so you still feel comfortable even in the rainy or windy outdoors.

The Hydro Runner is made with 100% recycled webbing and mesh while the EVA foam sole is made from 50% recycled materials. It comes in Black/White and White/Black colorways but there’s also a new tangerine option available for the men’s design. The latter is the one that looks more like a sneaker but the earlier colorways gives off more of a clog design with socks, although the material gives you more of a sneaker feel. I still won’t go out when it’s raining but this one is a good option if ever I find myself outdoors during the rainy season.

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This medical boot sneaker (sans any fractures or sprain) is the footwear to show-off

Wait, what? Is that a guy with broken feet or sprained ankles? It’s actually a pair of sneakers meant to look like a medical boot!

Meet the AC1 boot by Brooklyn-based mischief-makers MSCHF created to explore the lighter side of hopping around in walking boots meant for rehabilitation from a foot injury.

Designer: MSCHF

As good as the sneaker design seems for the Gen-Z, the inspiration story is equally interesting. In 2015 CEO Lukas Bentel saw a person waking in medical boots down Prince Street in New York. He thought it to be the “most interestingly designed object,” especially the function-over-fashion character. According to him pondering over objects that aren’t intended to be aesthetic and given the least attention when it comes to design, can end up “looking really interesting and out-there.”

The result, AC.1 plastic Aircast boots by the art collective mirroring the look of an orthopedic show with complete details like Velcro straps and holes. There’s even the removable water-resistant inner neoprene sock liner to keep the realism going. What distinguishes this flexible molded rubber Aircast boot from a real medical boot that’s meant for slow excruciating walks, is the presence of the branding logo on all sides. To keep the hip-hop shoe comfortable for all-day use, MSCHF has loaded it with the patented Wowcomfy tech cushions for the underfoot and high-traction outsole.

Just for the record, the maker has explicitly mentioned that the sneaker is not meant for injured foot support. The MSCHF AC-1 will be available on October 19 with a price tag of $450 USD, so if you want to own an out-of-the-box boot, this is the one to burn money on. Apparently, you can get a couple of real medical boots for the same price!

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Walk on beer with these limited-edition Heineken sneakers have been injected with beer in their soles

Are you ready to ‘walk on beer’? Because Heineken’s here to ensure that you do just that! The infamous Dutch brewing company recently unveiled Heineken Silver – a new smooth, easy-to-drink beer brewed for a new generation of drinkers. And they decided to kickstart its launch, with a pair of kicks! Heineken collaborated with celebrity sneaker designer Dominic Cambrione, more popularly known as The Shoe Surgeon, to create – the ‘Heinekicks’.

Designer: Heineken x The Shoe Surgeon

What are the Heinekicks? Quite simply put, they’re limited edition sneakers FILLED with beer. There are only 32 pairs available in the world, and yes, you heard it right, they actually contain soles filled with the new Heineken Silver. Heineken promises these liquid-filled kicks “will have you Walking on Beer”.

The Shoe Surgeon maintained the brand’s iconic red, green, and silver colors in the shoes as well. The acclaimed designer has created kicks worn by the likes of LeBron James, DJ Khaled, and Drake.“Partnering with Heineken for their new beer was a fun challenge. We both share a passion for innovation and pushing boundaries and created a design to reflect that,” said The Shoe Surgeon. “The shoe not only embodies the energy of Heineken Silver but literally carries it. I can’t say I’ve ever designed a sneaker that contains actual beer before.’’

He power-packed the sneakers with a sleek green lenticular upper with silver and red accents. A removable metal bottle opener has been integrated into the tongue of the shoes. This could come pretty handy when it’s time to pop open a cold one!

Of course, the most fascinating element of the shoes is the transparent soles filled with the golden liquid, which is Heineken Silver. The beer was inserted into the soles using a specialized surgical injection method!

The one-of-a-kind soles provide the wearer with an extremely smooth walking experience, drawing a smart parallel to the smooth taste of Heineken Silver. These are the first pair of sneakers that allow you to walk on beer and a super genius marketing hack! We can’t wait to see how avid beer lovers react toward Heineken Silver!

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These eccentric inflatable concept shoes created using daily objects are breaking the internet

Designer UV-Zhu’s inflatable shoes have quite literally been taking Instagram by storm! Completely throwing aside functionality and practicality – these unique shoes included everything else. Previously we covered his puffy soled shoes with spongy uppers and protruding tentacles that quite honestly mimicked mutated creatures. And this time, we’re diving into his new kicks, which are supposed to be ‘inflated’.

Designer: UV-Zhu

UV-Zhu’s Nike conceptual series are basically inflatable structures paired up with daily objects resulting in kicks that you would probably never see at the Nike showroom. The ankle straps are made from white garters, silicone, and paper-based tapes. The outsoles have been power-packed with springs so that they can allow the wearer, to walk without actually putting any effort into walking!

Sponges and myriad kinds of soft padding have been squeezed in between these layers, creating comfy cushioning for the wearer. Some of the shoes have also been equipped with a layer of candy, and eccentric bristles as the outsole!

Following ensuite is his ‘AIR’ collection – which is exactly what it sounds like. This collection consists of shoes that have been inflated with air, and their soles look almost like floatation devices. UV-Zhu himself implies that these astounding shoes have no practical usage, and are simply an artistic exploration of form – they’re fun in the name of art! And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.

Of course, there’s also the addition of bubble gum in some of the high tops (UV loves his candy in sneakers), while others have a completely transparent design.

UV-Zhu’s conceptual shoes reimagine daily objects as marvelous and inflated forms. Yes, they don’t have much functionality, but they do add a playful and quirky element to the otherwise serious world of fashion. Sometimes, it’s okay to have things that are just funny and pleasing to look at, without having a deeper agenda to them. What do you think?

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adidas x Victorinox EQT 93 sneaker boasts style + multifunctionality for urban adventures

It’s not the first time adidas and Victorinox have collaborated on unexpected creations that actually serve a very useful purpose. The two renowned brands have again come together for a limited-edition combo of sneakers that are loaded with a capable Swiss Army Knife.

This is the adidas x Victorinox EQT 93 sneaker by the German activewear brand for people who have a very active lifestyle. When needed the most, the sneaker has the Swiss brand’s EDC snug in place for any fixing, cutting, or other tasks. The shoe is based on the EQT 93 sneaker, and modified for this exclusive offering. According to Veronika Elsener, Chief of Marketing at Victorinox – “We are thrilled with the outcome of the products which bring unique design and exciting details.”

Designer: adidas and Victorinox

On the right shoe the heel is adorned with the adidas logo, iconic trio of stripes on the side sole, and the coordinates of the brand’s headquarters in Herzogenaurach on the outer sole. That inner sole of the right shoe also gets the adidas’ corporate design on the inside. The left pair on the other hand has the Victorinox Cross and the Shield etched on one side which looks so cool. There’s the Swiss brand’s Ibach headquarters seen through the transparent outer sole, the image of Spartan pocket knife on the heel, and their corporate logo on the inner sole.

The left shoe is where the Classic SD Solemate Limited Edition Swiss Knife resides. Mind you, it can also be swapped for the Classic SD SAK if one desires. The EDC has tools including scissors, a key ring, a 2.5-mm screwdriver, a small blade, a toothpick, tweezers and a nail file.

To keep the theme similar on both the sneaker and the EDC – the knife has front and rear handles with different designs. One has the Damascus steel-inspired pattern while the other gets both brands’ headquarters coordinates. The blade of the exclusive EDC also gets the coordinates of the headquarters engraved on it – now that alone is pretty elusive.

Ones who get their hands on this pairing will get the genuine Nappa leather pouch attachable to the adidas sneaker. The snap hook-equipped paracord pendant on the outside is crafted from the same shoe laces to highlight parity. adidas x Victorinox EQT 93 sneaker will cost $75 and the adidas x Victorinox Classic SD Solemate Limited Edition Swiss Army Knife will be priced at $139.

 

 

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This hiking shoe with adaptive protection guards ankle from twisting on meandering trails

There are very few ambitious hikers who have not twisted their ankle. Some may escape with slight pain, while others have career-defining injuries. But everyone on an outdoor adventure always runs the risk of twisting or spraining the ankle.

As adventurers out on meandering trails more often than on tar, we need a pair of durable boots with substantial outside traction and general responsiveness to avert injuries. Stepping on the gas with a patented adaptive ankle protection technology from Betterguards, the German start-up called Terrein has developed a high ankle Ascent boot that will provide advanced freedom to hikers while actively protecting their ankles against potential twisting injuries.

Designer: Terrein

The Terrein Ascent is made primarily with the idea to reduce the risk of ankle injuries in adventurers. The adaptive ankle support – touted to be three times more responsive than a human reflex – can reduce the risk of injuries and provide constant support to the ankle. Moreover, the Ascent is made to increase stability with its immaculate construction (we’ll talk about it a bit later).

The hydraulic ankle protection system is fastened to the outside of the ankle and wrapped around with a Velcro-enabled strap. This system integrates a piston – called adaptor – which safeguards against twisting. It triggers in (extends and retracts instantly) only when needed to protect the ankle from twisting, otherwise, the piston works naturally allowing stability to the foot like the ankle support in a premium basketball shoe.

Terrein Ascent is the first viable adaptation of the Betterguards’ system which is likely to find its way into the NBA soon. The adaptive ankle protection piston is likely to make its way into basketball sneakers through the NBA’s Launchpad tech incubator program. So, in addition to allowing hikers to regain their footing quickly, the tech is likely to support the ankles of basketball stars soon.

For its construction, which gives an air of mystery to the Ascent; the boot features a breathable laced upper on a responsive cushioned PU midsole. The outsole comprises high grip rubber and a deep lug design for maximum traction. This all-weather silhouette combines natural freedom of motion with adaptive ankle protection to provide outdoor enthusiasts the independence to explore the wilderness without thinking about physical or mental restrictions. This facility is for now limited to hikers in Europe only, as the shoe – now available for preorder – will be developed specifically for the European market initially.

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A-COLD-WALL x Converse Sponge CX Crater pushes the limits of wearability and style

Just like its parent company Nike, Converse has been teaming up with different brands, celebrities, and artists to introduce new sneaker creations that will please the sneakerheads. In recent months, the label has inked a deal with Samuel Ross’ brand A-COLD-WALL, and the partnership is a significant one because the British designer is currently famous in the menswear fashion scene. The collaboration has already delivered the recently-released Converse Aeon Active CX with a future-ready silhouette. And this time around, the duo is set to show off the Converse Sponge Crater CX as a new model. At first glance, you will recognize that it’s a follow-up to the Aeon Active CX because of the similarities in shape and texture. It boasts the same sculptural form and bold silhouette that you can’t imagine would be comfortable, but it actually is.

Designer: A-Cold-Wall x Converse

Converse x A-COLD-WALL Sponge Crater

Converse x A-COLD-WALL Sponge Crater

Few will agree this pair is minimalist, but that is how the designers describe its form compared to the previous model. The Sponge Crater’s design is more straightforward with the minimized components but still looks attractive with the choice of colors. You will see the orange flat-knit upper with a printed A-COLD-WALL logo, small details like the gray pull tabs and the spandex collar, and the shell made of Crater and CX foam. What is most notable about the shoe is the unique texture—like the moon’s surface with all the craters and holes.

Converse x A-COLD-WALL Sponge Crater

A-Cold-Wall and Converse intended for the shoes to have such an interesting crater foam body and an overstated heel kick that allows ease of entry. It appears complicated, but it is comfortable, stable, and able to provide all-day support. Converse’s very own CX technology combined with a PU foam CX liner allows comfort and warmth with every stride. The brands that worked on the pair also intended for the Converse x A-COLD-WALL Sponge Crater to be used across all types of terrains, so you know the pair isn’t just for showing off.

Converse x A-COLD-WALL Sponge Crater

The A-Cold-Wall x Converse Sponge Crater proves the “less is more” principle which both brands follow. The pair offers style and wearability that are not often balanced if we’re talking about hyped sneakers. Samuel Ross’ flair for craftsmanship and atypical contemporary aesthetic is evident in the pair. But what is likable about this is the next-level comfort and support, thanks to the Crater foam body, CX foam underfoot, and the egg-crate style traction pod outsole.

Converse x A-COLD-WALL Sponge Crater

Converse x A-COLD-WALL Sponge Crater

The avante-garde design of the A-Cold-Wall x Converse Sponge Crater is yet another fruit of the collaborative efforts between the two labels, delivering a futuristic feel that pushes the boundaries of style and footwear technology. Converse is known for shoes with all-day comfort, and the Sponge Crater offers just that—comfort and support to the feet throughout the day.

Converse x A-COLD-WALL Sponge Crater

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Converse x A-COLD-WALL Sponge Crater

 

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Reebok’s adaptive footwear collection truly wants to make life easier for disabled

Everyone deserves a pair of sneakers that amplifies the craving for everyday success. That said, the power of comfortable and accessible footwear should not be exclusive. Thankfully Reebok really wants to help the physically challenged community with a gimmick-free collection of lifestyle and performance-oriented sneakers.

Brands like Nike have lately offered adaptive sneakers for people with disability but were they affordable? Surely, not. The Go FlyEase hand-free sneakers are a good example of this fact. They were at one point in time very inaccessible, and some resellers listed them online for an exorbitant price tag of $2,000. In the end, their purpose of helping the disabled community got juxtaposed. Rebook wants to fix this with the Fit to Fit accessible footwear collection which is practical and priced sensibly for everyone to explore without burning a hole in the pocket.

Designer: Reebok and Zappos Adaptive

The new edition of sneakers is designed in partnership with Zappos Adaptive, and includes two sneakers crafted for easy on-and-off wear to facilitate disabled people. Dubbed the Nanoflex Parafit TR and Club MEMT Parafit, these sneakers are low-cut and feature removable sock liners (for orthotics) and high abrasion rubber outsoles for superior grip. While the Nanoflex Parafit TR has a breathable mesh upper, medial zipper and heel pull tab for easy putting on or taking off – the Club MEMT Parafit has a leather upper and extra 4E width.

Thankfully both the sneakers come in unisex sizing, and can be purchased as a pair, or as a single shoe too. Reebok has priced them both sensibly as the Nanoflex Parafit TR retails for $90, while the Club MEMT Parafit comes for $65. We genuinely hope the sneakers will not go out of stock, and end up selling for more prices at later stages. If that’s not the case, Reebok and Zappos are surely going to be popular brands among disabled people and physically challenged athletes. After all these functional pairs of footwear permit a life of independence and free movement. All this while maintaining Reebok’s iconic design and timeless silhouettes.

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NikeCraft General Purpose Shoes always ready for everyday use

NikeCraft GPS Design

Ah, shoes, glorious shoes. Of course, nothing is going to stop us from getting a thrill over a new pair of shoes. Sneakerheads know the excitement of being shown a new pair, colorway, or iteration, especially if they are from a famous sports brand.

The NikeCraft lineup is getting a new addition in the form of the NikeCraft General Purpose Shoe (GPS). The new pair is described as an “Ordinary Shoe for Extraordinary People” as it can allow you to do everything, everywhere. The NikeCraft GPS celebrates a 10-year collaboration between Tom Sachs and Nike. This partnership has introduced several pairs already that offer new things for the future of sports and every athlete.

Designer: Tom Sachs

NikeCraft GPS X Tom Sachs Collab

If you are to own only one Nike pair, the NikeCraft GPS should be it. It lets you enjoy all your activities with proper support and comfort. This pair is really for everyday use as you can even call it your daily tool.

Nike and Tom Sachs have been designing shoes that have an appeal of a sculpture. Some shoes these days are designed just to look good, but this new pair is wearable and actually comfortable. In addition, the NikeCraft GPS comes in a remarkable shape. The upturned toe is very obvious but complements the shoes’ distinct profile.

NikeCraft GPS

NikeCraft GPS X Tom Sachs Collection

The NikeCraft GPS comes with an ultra-breathable knit, microfiber collar, and straps with a signature. The three-piece molded cup sole appears differently, but it makes the pair very durable. The sole system comes with a very durable rubber outsole, EVA foam core, and a soft rubber midsole. The outsole has been redesigned with a rubber waffle laden with the US Patent and NikeCraft logo.

The shoe design appears simple, but the NikeCraft GPS’ structure and engineering enable the necessary support and comfort. Speaking of comfort, the pair boasts a lightning-holed foam tongue package with a heat-sealed edge. The NikeCraft woven label is found underneath the tongue.

NikeCraft GPS Tom Sachs

Artist Tom Sachs has this to say about his collaboration with Nike: “It took me years to best advantage the superpowers of scale and to deliver value while still reflecting the standards of my studio. A great collaboration is something that no partner could do without the other, and NikeCraft has always been a 50/50 collaboration.” He described the pair as something with “an understated quality.” He also mentioned, “they’re meant to do all the things that you do and tell your story.”

NikeCraft GPS Sole

The NikeCraft GPS will be available in different colorways. The launch version, though, will come with a more neutral look and feel with a muted white upper, gum rubber midsole, and the blue donning straps. The pair will be available in Women’s and Men’s sizes with a $110 price tag. That is an affordable rate you can get at nikecraft.com beginning the 10th of June.

As with some interesting pairs from Nike, the NikeCraft GPS becomes more beautiful over time. The shoes arrive in a custom box that features the NikeCraft logo. This Nike and Tom Sachs’ latest baby is expected to sell fast, especially with its price.

NikeCraft GPS X Tom Sachs

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