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Brand: adidas Y-3
Model: Ultraboost 22
Release Date: Available now
Price: $300
Buy: Online at adidas
Editor’s Notes: Cast your mind back to the mid-2010s, and likely, you’ll recall the immense popularity of adidas and Yohji Yamamoto’s Y-3 Qasa High.
The ninja-like silhouette was the go-to sneaker for all-black fashion disciples throughout the decade. There are no doubts that the “Triple Black” rendition was (unsurprising) its most popular finish, and you’ll likely still catch the odd pair gliding the streets to this day.
For me, there’s no imagining adidas Y-3 without thinking of the Qasa High, and when I look at the new Ultraboost 22, it casts my mind back to that (much) simpler time.
In the words of Yamamoto, “Y-3 is a strong examination of the blend of sport and style and the tension caused by mixing tradition with all that is modern.” In the case of the Ultraboost 22, this rings particularly true.
Year on year, the flagship Ultraboost technology has undergone a series of updates, not unlike Nike’s Air Max lineup, making its latest iteration a natural fit for a new era of Y-3 sneakers.
At first glance, the running silhouette’s uncaged slip-on construction, flexible Primeknit upper, and elastic straps evoke the distinctive layering of the Qasa, albeit bolder, thanks to its Three Stripe pattern work.
Additional details such as the heel clip and loop make it clear that the sneaker has been created in homage to what is arguably Yohji’s best work with adidas, signally a new era rooted in archival design.
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