END. kicks off its 20th anniversary with a fresh take on the Salomon XT-6, turning to its long-time partner to craft a special edition sneaker inspired by traditional anniversary symbols. The XT-6 ‘Emerald’ edition draws directly from the emerald and platinum motifs often tied to twenty-year milestones, creating a design that balances performance details with visual sharpness.
SNEAKERS
Salomon originally released the XT-6 in 2013, building a shoe designed to meet the demands of ultra-long-distance running. Since then, the silhouette has become one of the most recognizable models in technical footwear, appreciated for its durability and its sharp, modern edge. END. saw in the XT-6 the perfect canvas to mark its own legacy, revisiting the trusted silhouette with new energy drawn from its anniversary theme.
For this edition, END. and Salomon wrapped the sneaker in platinum silver mesh and abrasion-resistant TPU uppers, punctuated with vivid emerald green accents. The green appears at the outsole, the tongue, and along the bar tack stitching near the eye stays, each element chosen to reflect the rich tones of its gemstone inspiration. The interior also features a custom touch: a co-branded insole printed with the texture of an emerald jewel. A woven patch on the tongue displays END.’s name, while Salomon’s signature quickLACETM system completes the shoe.
To emphasize the connection between the product and its source of inspiration, END. and Salomon traveled to Northern Ireland for the campaign visuals, setting the sneaker against the Giant’s Causeway. The iconic grey stone formations and saturated green terrain reflect the core elements of the shoe’s palette. By grounding the campaign in this dramatic location, both brands underline their design choices without resorting to digital trickery or artificial environments.
The outsole also tells part of the story. Salomon added a pattern beneath the shoe that mimics the shifts in color and texture found in a cut emerald. With every detail focused on depth, contrast, and material finish, the XT-6 ‘Emerald’ does more than nod to its namesake, it channels its energy into something wearable.
END. and Salomon continue to build on a strong history of collaborations. This release fits naturally into their shared timeline, yet it still introduces a refreshed sense of direction for both labels. The design speaks to endurance, both in sport and in business, acknowledging END.’s two decades without relying on nostalgia or flash.
The END. x Salomon XT-6 ‘Emerald’ arrives on Friday, 28th March 2025, priced at $195. It will be available through all END. retail locations and online via END. Launches.
