Isser Whitey James introduces the latest Encore design that bridges both Nike and Sole Mates together for the season. He talks about his favorite sneaker and how it's important to collaborate with local brands with Hypebeast.
Speaking about why he selected the Air Force 1 for the collaborative project, he tells Hypebeast "So the Air Force 1 Low "Encore" was made in 2004 for rapper Eminem, and Nike only made a mere 50 pairs. The rarity of these sneakers already makes them special in their own right, but they’re even more special given that they were released via auction and the proceeds were donated to those in need in the city of Detroit. In general, too, I just think that the Air Force 1 is one of Nike’s most classic silhouettes."
Lifestyle Collaborative Footwear
Isser Whitey James and Nike Drop the Air Force 1 Encore Design
Trend Themes
1. Collaborative Footwear Design - Opportunity for creating limited edition sneakers that bridge together local brands and global footwear companies for the season.
2. Rarity Appeal - Opportunity for creating small limited edition sneaker quantities that appeal to both the rarity and exclusivity of the design
3. Classic Silhouette Reimagined - Opportunity for infusing a new meaning to classic sneaker silhouettes by collaborating with niche designers.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion and Apparel - Fashion and apparel industry players can incorporate collaborative designs to make limited edition shoe designs across cultures and genres.
2. Streetwear - Streetwear industries can reach out to different local brands and designers for their innovative infusions into limited sneaker designs.
3. Charity and Social Causes - Charity and social causes can mobilize sneaker brands to make upscale, limited-edition shoes whose proceeds will be used for advancing wholesome causes in society.