#17talks

DRAKE UNVEILS NEW NOCTA PROMO STARRING BRITISH RAPPER CENTRAL CEE

Central Cee for NOCTA. Drawing attention to some of the label’s latest promotional shots, Drake took to Instagram recently to spotlight British rapper Central Cee donning some of his new Nike backed brand’s campaign imagery. Appearing alongside a number of other gents in key garments from the newcomer’s collection, the likes of cosy outerwear, hoodies, technical vests and tracksuit bottoms all arrive in NOCTA’s preferred blacked-out palette with pops of yellow throughout.

NIKE AMONG BRANDS FACING BACKLASH IN CHINA OVER FORCED LABOR COMMENTS

Nike is among a number of brands being criticized for comments regarding reports of forced labor in China's Xinjiang province. The Oregon-based sportswear brand has issued a statement mentioning concerns regarding the reports of forced labor, going on to add that it would not source textiles from the region, all of which has led to backlash in China. “We are concerned about reports of forced labor in, and connected to, the Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region (XUAR),” Nike said. “Nike does not source products from the XUAR and we have confirmed with our contract suppliers that they are not using textiles or spun yarn from the region.” According to The Guardian, following the statement, multiple Chinese celebrities have severed ties with Nike due to the company's recent claims, including 23-year-old actor Wang Yibo. "I firmly oppose any act to smear China," he said. Fellow Chinese actor Tan Songyun also decided to end her contract with Nike following the brand's comments on forced labor. China’s biggest sneaker resale site, Dewu (known as Poizen in English) also announced it had removed all Nike products indefinitely from its platform. H&M is facing similar backlash after a year-old statement was circulated on Chinese social media sites, which indicated that the brand had decided to stop sourcing cotton from Xinjiang. The Swedish company also terminated its relationship with a Chinese yarn producer last year, citing forced labor accusations in the region. Since then, Chinese online shopping site Taobao has removed H&M products from its platform, while two well-known Chinese actors have cut ties with the brand as well. And Xinjiang’s largest shopping centre, Jiahui Shidai, in the region’s capital of Urumqi also announced on Weibo it would shutter its H&M store. H&M China responded to the controversy on Wednesday saying it “does not represent any political position” and that it remains committed to a long-term investment in China. Within the last year, many global brands have spoken out against sourcing from Xinjiang (which produces about a fifth of the world's cotton) following a UN report alleging human rights abuses in mass detention camps in the region. The UN estimates that there are at least one million Uyghurs, as well as members of other Muslim minority groups, that are forced into so-called “re-education programs” and forced labor, such as picking cotton. Some of the brands that previously took a public stance against Xinjiang cotton include adidas, New Balance, and Burberry and they're swiftly beginning to feel the backlash too. Notably, Honour of Kings, a hugely popular mobile game in China, announced it is canceling a highly-anticipated collaboration with Burberry. Then actors Zhou Dongyu and Song Weilong announced they would no longer appear as brand ambassadors for Burberry. Similarly, adidas also lost brand ambassadors Dilraba Dilmurat, Eason Chan, and Liu Yifen. Meanwhile, some international brands like Muji are choosing to go a different route. The Japanese lifestyle retailer announced on Thursday that its stores in China will continue to carry products made with Xinjiang cotton, but they will display a label reading “Xinjiang cotton.” It is unclear whether Muji will continue selling cotton from the region in other markets outside China. It's clear the political storm over Xinjiang cotton is only just kicking off. It remains to be seen whether more international companies and apparel brands will take a stance in the matter faced with the potential backlash and losing marketplaces in China.

THE BEST NIKE DUNKS TO COP FOR UNDER $200

While Nike Dunks have always been a staple for skaters and sneakerheads, the last two years have seen an explosion in popularity for the silhouette. While you could put this down to a saga of wild collaborations, including co-signs with The Grateful Dead and Ben & Jerry’s, there are many contributing factors. Celebrity endorsement from names like Kyrie Irving and Travis Scott has also helped the Nike SB Dunk along into a full-blown resurgence almost twenty years after its 2002 launch. But with great popularity comes great prices, and we don’t mean great like great, we mean great like massive, astronomical price tags. Make a quick Nike SB Dunk search online and you’re likely to see pairs reaching four figures on the first page. Whether it’s a Swarovski-encrusted pair from Cactus plant Flea Market or a fur-covered Grateful Dead pair, the Nike Dunk has become something almost unimaginable for early ‘00s disciples. That said, it’s still possible to show your love for the legendary silhouette without breaking the bank. To prove it, we took to the net to round up the best Nike Dunks under 200 dollars. The market for Nike Dunks under $200 might be overshadowed by bigger releases, but it still exists and it rewards those willing to take the time to look around. We did the looking around for you. Shop the best Nike Dunks for under 200 dollars. The best Nike Dunk Highs for under $200 Nike Dunk High SP 'Iowa' Dunk High SP 'Iowa' 2020 $180 NIKE BUY AT GOAT We love varsity colorways and we also love reissues, so the Nike Dunk High SP ‘Iowa’ really resonated. While the colorway was perhaps most famous when it was adopted by the Wu-Tang Clan in 1999, this 2020 release is actually the return of the 1985 colorway which was part of the 'Be True to Your School' series. Nike Dunk High Premium 'Dark Curry' Dunk High Premium 'Dark Curry' $175 NIKE BUY AT GOAT With the ‘Medium Curry’ Dunk Low releasing just a few days ago, it was only right that we shone the light on the Nike Dunk High Premium ‘Dark Curry’. Velvet Brown suede uppers feature shaggy orange suede overlays and a rich orange Swoosh all built on a clean, white and off-white sole unit. Nike Dunk High 'Vast Grey' Dunk High 'Vast Grey' From $164 NIKE (Available at 2 Merchants) WHERE TO SHOP As vintage-style, minimal colorways slowly take over the sneaker game in opposition to the attention-grabbing palettes often used for the more hyped releases, the Nike Dunk High ‘Vast Grey’ stands out as a highlight. This two-tone silhouette is easy to style and as timeless as they come. Nike Dunk High Sail 'Team Red' Nike Dunk High Sail 'Team Red' $165 NIKE BUY AT STOCKX Sail combines majestically with Team Red for the Nike Dunk High ‘Team Red’. Leather uppers form the perfect backdrop for one of the most sophisticated colorways we’ve seen in a long time. Nike Dunk High 'Michigan' Dunk High Michigan (2020) From $183 NIKE (Available at 2 Merchants) WHERE TO SHOP The Nike Dunk High ‘Michigan’ also debuted in 1985 as part of the ‘Be True to Your School’ series, and it’s another super-simple, pared-back colorway which hasn’t aged a day since its first release. Contrasting Varsity Maize and Midnight Navy panels to the upper have left an indelible mark on Dunk history and at less than $200, this is a no-brainer. Nike Dunk High 'Pure Platinum' Dunk High 'Pure Platinum' From $140 NIKE (Available at 2 Merchants) WHERE TO SHOP You can't go wrong with a triple-white colorway. Not only is it super-clean and therefore up there with the most versatile in terms of styling, but it also emphasizes the classic silhouette of the Nike Dunk High. Nike Dunk Lows for under $200 Nike Dunk Low 'Hyper Cobalt' Dunk Low 'Hyper Cobalt' $170 NIKE BUY AT GOAT Some Nike colorways take on a life of their own and the Hyper Cobalt/Black combination is definitely one. While it’s not dressing an iconic Jordan 1 here, the palette still packs a punch on the Nike Dunk Low. Nike SB Dunk Low 'Wheat' Nike SB Dunk Low 'Wheat' $168 NIKE BUY AT STOCKX Returning for 2020, Nike’s Wheat suede colorway is a sneakerhead favorite and has seen its fair share of releases. A monochrome upper sits atop a black midsole and, the cherry on top (or bottom), a gum outsole to round out the classic aesthetic. Nike Dunk Low Retro Dunk Low Retro 'Varsity Red' $182 NIKE BUY AT STOCKX One of the best things about varsity colorways is their simplicity. Although this Varsity Red Nike Dunk Low dropped earlier this year, it could just as comfortably dropped in any year for the last 35 years.

NIKE'S NEW AIR MAX PRE-DAY IS CENTERED AROUND REDUCTIVE AND CIRCULAR DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Nike (NYSE:NKE -0.27%) has never been shy about touting the importance of Air Max to its brand ethos, even referring to it as the “embodiment of Nike design philosophy.” This bold statement is backed up by innovation after innovation, however — ranging from visible Air’s debut on the Air Max 1 in 1987 to the first full-length Air Max cushioning unit on the Air Max 97 in 1997 and the tremendous technological innovation of Air VaporMax in 2017. In 2021 Air Max is set to enter a new chapter centered around reductive and circular design principles, and the Air Max Pre-Day is here to serve as that chapter’s starting point. With a name inspired by the legendary Steve Prefontaine and the beginning of a new Air Max era, the Air Max Pre-Day fuses elements of late ’70s Nike classics with the current decade’s technical innovations and enhanced materials. Uppers blend finely-woven polyester mesh with ripstop, synthetics and smooth suedes while midsoles are cored out to show off the heel Air unit in full and decrease the shoe’s weight. This fully visible Air unit is the Air Max Pre-Day’s main example of “reductive design,” a practice that removes elements from an item to highlight its most vital component. The shoe’s circular nature is apparent in its construction: vamps and quarters are made of 100 percent recycled polyester, while each suede piece is fully recycled as well. From a looks standpoint, the Air Max Pre-Day’s inagural colorway mixes a volt-like shade with seafoam green and black. Upcoming makeups will be “washed-out versions of ’70s Nike Running styles,” according to the Swoosh. Look for the Nike Air Max Pre-Day to hit Nike SNKRS on Air Max Day, March 26. The MSRP is set at $130 USD.

SUPREME & NIKE SPRING/SUMMER 2021 COLLECTION

SS21' @ Supreme x Nike. Spotlighting their latest collaborative offering, New York based Supreme and fellow stateside based label Nike recently debuted their spring/summer 2021 collection for your consideration. Unveiling the drop via a series of lookbook shots and product-centric images, the concise selection of pieces includes a Reversible Puffy Jacket, Track Jacket, Shirt, Hooded Sweatshirt, Track Pant, Sweatpant, two Beanies, Neck Warmer and Belt – with the majority of each available in a variety of colour options. Check out some shots of what’s available below and shop the collection online starting from March 11th. View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger View Larger

PAUSE PICKS: 5 SNEAKER RELEASES OF THE WEEK

Nike Air Force 1/1 An essential in any wardrobe, the classic white Air Force 1 is given customisable patches so that you can switch between styles. BUY New Balance 991 Part of the brand’s Made in the UK series, this 991 release marries autumnal red and brown hues in suede and leather. BUY Craig Green X Adidas Rivalry Polta AKH Cult British designer Craig Green has added a translucent layer to the upper of this sneaker, made as part of his partnership with Adidas. BUY Converse X Undefeated Chuck 70 Streetwear label Undefeated has taken on the classic Chuck 70 for its collaboration with Converse, including blue detailing on the sneaker. BUY Reebok Zig Kinetica II A running-inspired shoe for the streets, this lightweight sneaker from Reebok will keep you light on your feet on all occasions. BUY

OFFICIAL LOOK AT THE KITH X NIKE AIR FORCE 1 LOW "PARIS"

Following the launch of its Miyashita Park flagship in Tokyo for Summer 2020, KITH is expected to expand upon its real estate portfolio and open up doors to a new space in Paris. And in a similar vein to the Japan opening, Ronnie Fieg and his camp are yet again partnering up with Nike (NYSE:NKE -1.13%) to release a collaborative Air Force 1 Low inspired by the “City of Light”. Three tones including white, navy and red are pronounced on this lifestyle-ready proposition, all of which are ripped directly from France’s flag. Swooshes, as well as the forefoot and back ends of the base are smoothened out in texture and lent a colorless aesthetic, while the quarter paneling brings back the streetwear retailer’s signature monogram pattern that was also spotted on the KITH x Nike Air Force 1 Low “Tokyo”. From there, French accents take over by evenly distributing the flag’s colors atop the remixed tongue logos and embroidered forefoot checks, in addition the heel’s KITH Air logo which is seen solely dyed in dark navy. Sliding down just below is the standard AF1 low midsole and outsole, both areas being identically wrapped with a sail hue to channel an aged aesthetic. No release date has been uncovered yet, but it’s likely that these will drop exclusively at the KITH Paris opening which could occur in the coming months. The MSRP will also likely be $140 USD.

GIVE YOUR SNEAKER ROTATION A JOLT WITH THE NIKE AIR FOAMPOSITE PRO "VOLT"

Nike‘s Air Foamposite line has never been for the faint of heart, and now the Air Foamposite Pro is going full maximalist with a new “Volt” colorway. Covered from front to rear in the hi-vis tone, the “Volt” is a masterfully monochromatic sneaker, made to delight expressive sneakerheads and boisterous Nike Sportswear lovers alike. Signature beetle-inspired synthetic shells and large midfoot Swooshes are done up entirely in a signature “Volt” shade, as are the pebbled leather eyestays and collar trim. Mesh tongues and throats largely continue down the same path, although they do feature touches of black detailing running up the lace keeper as well as on the tongue badge and pull tab. The heel’s pull tab is equipped with a Foamposite spellout and sits above an embroidered black Swoosh. Down below, a checkered black and volt pattern appears on the midfoot’s carbon fiber plate and semi-translucent volt outsoles round off the look. Expect the Nike Air Foamposite Pro “Volt” to release via the Nike webstore and retailers like Nice Kicks on February 12, priced at $230 USD.

JORDAN BRAND HONORS NBA ALL-STAR WEEKEND WITH THIS TWO-TONED AIR JORDAN 1 LOW SE

There’s still some sorting out to do for NBA All-Star Weekend 2021 such as securing a date and a venue, but one thing that is for certain is that Jordan Brand has intentions to celebrate the hoops-filled weekend with a commemorative Air Jordan 1 Low SE. While presented with a darker-toned theme, the offering possesses interesting details found throughout its upper half. The primary hue here is a stark black as it colors in the base layer’s main components such as the underlays and overlays, the former seeing through to smooth leathers while the latter is more playful and arrives with glossy finishes. White trimming is also highlighted on these kicks through the exposed stitchings that border the Swooshes, the circular Jumpman embellishments on the tongues, as well as the rear end’s ball-and-wings logo embroidery. Another detail to point out includes the medial side’s Swooshes which have been decorated with tonal diagonal dotted patterns that run its length. To accompany this layer, the Jumpman design team welcomes in a clean white midsole and pairs it above an outsole that is swamped in all black. If you’re looking to cop, these will be releasing come January 31 for ¥849 (approx. $131 USD) via Nike China. A stateside drop has not been confirmed yet.

NIKE IS DROPPING A PAINT-SPLATTERED BLAZER MID ’77

Continuing with its fondness for soft colors on Blazer Mid ’77, Nike (NYSE:NKE -1.78%) has just dropped a new artisitc colorway. The “Paint Splatter” colorway is wrapped in white leather with overlays of grey suede on the mudguard, piping and heel patch. The sneaker’s colorway is defined by paint splatters in black, blue, red, and yellow across the side panels, toe box, and heel. A key detail can be found in the exposed foam tongue which references the early days of tennis shoes. Aside from the bright colors, a faded-black Swoosh further contrasts the white silhouette. Priced at $100 USD, Nike Blazer Mid ’77 is set to arrive in the coming months.

DRAKE'S NEXT NIKE X NOCTA DROP LOOKS ... JUST LIKE THE FIRST ONE

Brand: NOCTA Season: FW 2021 Key Pieces: It's the tracksuit for me. With its high neckline and loose fit, the nylon tracksuit in black and yellow is reminiscent of 90s athletic fits. Release Date: January 19 Buy: Nike Editor's Notes: When Drake released his debut NOCTA collection with Nike it instantly sold out. So it's no surprise fans are feverishly waiting for his follow-up collection. And for those who caught an L with the last drop, good news: the second collection looks almost exactly the same. In our first look at the upcoming assortment, which is scheduled to arrive in February 2021, it's hard not to notice that the style cues from the first collection to the second are one and the same. The black and yellow color pairing, Drizzy's pointed stars symbol, and mysterious printed text “C.L.” and “A.W.R.” The similarities suggest this might be a Japan-exclusive extension of NOCTA's debut collection, however, neither Nike nor Drake have confirmed this. The apparel line is another concise collection comprising only five pieces: a black track jacket, matching pants, mock neck shirt, and two monochrome T-shirts. According to Nike Japan’s official release page, the new collection will launch on the Nike SNKRS app on January 19. Retail prices have been provided in Japanese Yen thus far. For now, it's unclear whether this is a Japan-exclusive drop.

THE TRAVIS SCOTT-INSPIRED AIR JORDAN 4 "TAUPE HAZE" IS RELEASING SOON

A sizable selection of footwear offerings from the Jumpman team are scheduled to roll out over the course of the Spring semester, one being the Air Jordan 4 “Taupe Haze”. Its design is closely associated with a friends and family Air Jordan 4 colorway of Travis Scott, so by nature, many folks within the sneaker community have been eyeing this release. To start off, the upper is primarily hued with a duo of neutral tones. Its titular hue purloins most of the attention here by wrapping the buttery suede mudguards, cracked leather paneling that make up the toe tip overlays, mid-foot and collars, as well as the traditional netting. On top of that, solid black accents hit the eye stays, cages, netted underlays, sock liners and heel counters. From there, “Infrared 23” notes apply to the Jordan logo on the tongues in addition to the not-as-favored Jumpman insignia placed on the heels. Moving downwards to the sole unit, the midsole splits down the middle by covering the forefoot section in stark black while the rear section that hosts an exposed Air unit is surrounded by a clean white tone. It’s reported that these La Flame-inspired kicks will be dropping via Nike and select stockists come January 28 for $200 USD.

Discover

Dans La Legende