KENZO is unveiling the second edition of a series of sneakers designed by Artistic Director NIGO. The KENZO-Pace is a highly technical sneaker that nods to the performance sneakers worn by runners, combining it with a fashion-focused twist.
To achieve the best levels of quality and technicality, KENZO partnered with a specialist factory in Vietnam to ensure the end product is an authentic fusion of athletics and aesthetics. Technical polyurethane is combined with woven mesh combinations for optimal resilience.
The outsole is where these guys differ from your run-of-the-mill runner, being tougher and heavier than on a traditional running shoe to withstand the unique demands of an urban environment. The KENZO Pace is punctuated by strong, reflective logo detailing and contrasting graphics that nod to the stripes of a tiger to channel some animal energy into each stride.
KENZO was founded by Kenzo Takada, who moved from Paris to Japan in 1970 and is best known for incorporating Asian design influences into European fashion. The brand is now owned by luxury conglomerate LVMH, which appointed Nigo as creative director of KENZO in 2021.
NIGO is a designer, record producer, and founder of the streetwear label A Bathing Ape. NIGO’s appointment at the fashion house represents streetwear and luxury fashion’s symbiotic relationship, where logoed hoodies demand as much respect as traditional men’s and womenswear offerings. This can be seen in KENZO’s recent collections where baseball caps are paired with tailoring.
Kenzo has been worn by celebrities including JAY-Z, Beyoncé and Rihanna. The celebrity appeal shows no signs of slowing down, with the KENZO-Pace sneakers already receiving the Pharrell nod of approval, as images surfaced of him sporting a pink and white pair in an off-duty look earlier this week.
The KENZO-Pace is available for men and women in a palette of all-white, all-black, silver and white, blue and black for men and pink and white for women. They are available to shop now in KENZO stores and KENZO.COM for £355.
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