Image via Complex Original
If you took an L on some of the latest hyped sneaker releases, Northern Soles host Andy Dang (a.k.a @certified) has got you covered on some hot pairs you might still be able to cop in Canada. From a Nike Air Force 1 that started out with a potential lawsuit and turned into a partnership, to a collaboration between PUMA and everyone’s favourite German candy brand, there are plenty of slept-on pickups worthy of your feet.
Check out the latest episode of Northern Soles below and keep scrolling to see Andy’s full list.
Reebok x NERF Kamikaze II
Price: $190 CAD
Where to buy: Reebok.ca, Footlocker.ca, Sportchek.ca
The Reebok Kamikaze II is a basketball sneaker that debuted in 1995. The kicks were originally designed for Seattle Supersonics power forward Shawn Kemp. Now a classic, this pair is known for its bold design, and coupled with NERF’s colourful splash, it makes for a really eye-popping kick. A collaboration made for those who aren’t afraid to stand out, they are still available online at Reebok Canada, Foot Locker, and Sportchek.
Reebok x Bronze 56K Answer IV
Price: $220 CAD
Where to buy: Reebok.ca, deadstock.ca
New York-based kkate brand Bronze 56K and Reebok collaborate once again for this clean take on Iverson’s Answer IV. The creamy off-white uppers are made with a soft tumble leather. Joint branding can be found on the tongue and sole of the shoes. Originally a basketball-focused sneaker, it’s now optimized for casual wear and comfort. Most sizes are still available at Reebok Canada and Livestock.
adidas Originals Superstar x LEGO
Price: $110 CAD (LEGO version), $180 CAD (sneaker version)
Where to buy: adidas.ca, lego.com
You can now own one of the most iconic sneakers of all time in LEGO form. The adidas Original Superstar LEGO collaboration allows you to construct and personalize your own Lego Superstar for display. This detailed LEGO sneaker features all the adidas Superstar graphics, shell toe shape, trefoil logo, and three tripes. There’s also an actual sneaker version that you can rock—playfully reconstructing the Superstar silhouette with the LEGO brick pattern. You might still be able to grab both versions early on the LEGO website, but they are also releasing on the adidas website on July 30th.
USPS x Nike Air Force 1 Low Experimental
Price: $130 USD
Where to buy: Nike.com
After the United States Postal Service (USPS) threatened legal action against Nike due to its upcoming shoe’s resemblance to the agency’s shipping boxes, both sides reached a resolution. The mail-themed Air Force 1 Experimental is now officially a USPS-licensed product. The pair draws obvious inspiration from the USPS Priority Mail slip and box. Due to the controversy surrounding this pair, the release was pushed back from May 28 to July 14. The most noticeable styling cues are the toggle fastener over laces and tongue, the vacuum seal-inspired uppers, and label-inspired overlay on the rear. If you’re lucky, you might still be able to grab a pair on Nike.com but if you have to look to the aftermarket, use the Sole Collector app to find the best prices.
Space Jam x Nike Air Force 1 'Hare'
Price: $120 USD
Where to buy: Nike.com, select retailers
Originally unveiled on June 8, Space Jam x Nike Air Force 1 “Hare” was very positively received by the sneaker and basketball community. Made with tumble leather uppers, which will be a key selling point, this colourway is made to match the Tune Squad’s new uniforms. You can find Lola and Bugs Bunny on the tongue of the sneaker, as well as stitched-on patches directly on the swoosh. Although this pair is anticipated to sell out quickly, you can always find the best prices on the aftermarket with the Sole Collector app.
adidas D.O.N. Issue #3
Price: $140 CAD
Where to buy: adidas.ca
Donovan Mitchell’s latest signature sneaker made its debut during this season’s playoffs. The D.O.N. Issue #3 is Utah Jazz-friendly colourway, featuring purple uppers with a white midsole decorated with a vibrant pattern. Moving away from Mitchell’s more clunky Issue #2, this is a much sleeker silhouette with bold styling. The tongue features Spider-Man-inspired branding. The sole swaps our adidas’ BOUNCE cushioning for their LIGHTSTRIKE technology. If you’d a pair for yourself, you might be able to grab one on the adidas Canada website.
PUMA x Haribo RS-X³
Price: $150 CAD
Where to buy: Puma.ca, Footlocker.ca
This juicy collaboration between PUMA and Haribo gives the German brands’ signature running shoe a saccharine makeover. A gummy bear chain detail is included with every pair and you can also see very pronounced branding from Haribo with the gummies showing up on the tongue, rear, insole and shoe box. This lightweight and cushion-filled shoe is a must-have for all candy lovers. You should be able to grab a pair on the Puma Canada website.
New Balance KAWHI ‘New Money’
Price: $210 CAD
Where to buy: Newbalance.ca
The KAWHI by New Balance is built for positionless play. Worn by the self-proclaimed “fun guy” on and off the court, this “New Money” colourway might just be the easiest to rock with tones that compliment each other extremely well. The $100 bill-inspired tongue design pays tribute to Kawhi Leonard both as a player and businessman. The midsole is made with New Balance’s FuelCell technology, which provides support and energy return for explosive in-game play. If you’d like a pair to add to your rotation, you should still be able to grab one directly from New Balance on their website.