Ellesse has cemented itself firmly at the forefront of sportswear in the UK – decking out everyone from teens at school, to now, the attendees of Dojos around the world. Originally established by Italian tailor Leonardo Servadio in 1959, the brand has developed its reputation from fashion-forward skiwear, expanding to become a globally recognised heritage sportswear brand. And now they’re taking on Karate.
Teaming up with Cobra Kai (Netflix’s The Karate Kid spin off), Ellesse is dropping a collection of co-branded apparel that celebrates elements of the hit show, just in time for it’s fourth season. It takes inspiration from the show’s rival dojo houses featuring team hoodies, sweatshirts, long and short sleeve t-shirts, track tops and track pants with contrasting Cobra Kai or Miyagi-Do colour schemes and branding.
If you haven’t seen it, the collab actually makes a lot of sense – since airing on Youtube in 2018, ‘Cobra Kai’ has picked up a cult following of devoted fans, spurring nostalgia in the 80’s classic Karate Kid films. Ellesse is tapping into the new wave of Karate fans, with the brand commenting that “we’re excited to revive some of our iconic styles for a new generation”.
Expect heavy doses of 80s nostalgia, seen through a track top with detachable arms which is inspired by both classic Ellesse blocks and the winning look of tennis player Boris Becker at Wimbledon. The style references the iconic cut off top with a modern twist.
The main event though, is the Team Cobra Kai apparel – standing out with pop colour detailing in a black, yellow and red aesthetic. Embroidered snake mascots sit proud throughout with printed Cobra co-branding. Contrasting karate house, Miyagi-do adopts a white, green and orange colour scheme and the club’s tree logoing, as well as iconic lines from the show itself.
With pieces starting from £25, the Cobra Kai x Ellesse collection is available on Netflix’s own online shop – but first get some inspo from the show itself, and check out the campaign video below.
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