Sportswear brand Adidas and renowned Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto have once again collaborated to redefine athletic footwear with their latest offering, the Y-3 KYASU sneaker. This innovative design was first showcased during Yamamoto’s show at Paris Fashion Week in March 2023, embodying a fusion of adidas’ iconic sporting legacy and Yamamoto’s unconventional design ethos.
The Y-3 KYASU sneaker originated from an intriguing concept: to mimic the appearance of an adidas Superstar shoe as if it were molded from concrete. This avant-garde approach led to the creation of a sneaker that boldly challenges traditional footwear design norms. The sneaker’s minimalist yet impactful design is characterized by a few key components: a rubber shell-toe, an exaggerated polyurethane (PU) midsole, a suede upper, and simple laces. Notably absent are an insole and strobel, replaced by the upper being directly stitched onto the soft, lightweight midsole. This construction results in a stark, brutalist aesthetic that is nonetheless expressive and visually arresting.
One of the most striking features of the Y-3 KYASU is its completely collapsible upper, paired with a thick, brick-like outsole. This unique design allows the sneaker to stand vertically, creating a bold silhouette that perfectly captures Yamamoto’s avant-garde design philosophy.
Available in both high and low cut versions, the Y-3 KYASU is a fearless exploration of minimalist design. It is accessible globally through various channels: adidas’ official website at adidas.com/y-3, the CONFIRMED app, select physical stores, and through chosen retailers.
