The second half of 2023 looks like some pretty exciting releases are coming up. Let’s look at some of the best sneaker stories from last month.
  
  
  
Chris Paul x Air Jordan 1 Low OG 
  
From the courts to the streets, Chris Paul has consistently showcased an affinity for sneakers that reflects his versatile personality and dynamic playing style. From the early days of his signature CP3 line to the modern interpretations that showcase his evolving style, each Jordan x CP3 release tells a unique story. Right from his Hornets days, CP3 has an extensive collection of PEs from the “Mint” Air Jordan 11s to the “Clippers” Air Jordan 4s making this collaboration a cornerstone in the sneaker landscape. Now ‘The Point God’ is releasing his own Air Jordan 1 Low OG. Seemingly named the "Give Them Flowers”, Chris Paul's new Air Jordan 1 Low wears an attractive printed silver upper that immediately calls to mind the various Air Force 1 and Nike Dunk Low sneakers created by CLOT. CP3’s AJ1 Low wears an impressively textural design atop its metallic upper, with swirling paisley-like floral patterns. The sneaker also reads a "Give Them Flowers" text printed behind the furry suede tongue and icy, flower-printed outsole.
  
  
  
  

New Balance ‘Warped Runner’ 


This chunky New Balance silhouette which was first revealed by way of an AURALEE collaboration during Paris Fashion Week is set to land later this month. First releasing in New Balance’s trusty fresh “Sea Salt” colourway, the WRPD Runner pushes the boundaries of what a traditional New Balance lifestyle silhouette embodies, with an innovative and futuristic aesthetic that distorts and warps familiarity. The WRPD Runner is both contemporary and futuristic in equal measure. This new silhouette certainly hits the mark when it comes to contemporary and comfortable fashion.
  
  
  
  
DJ Khaled Teases New Jordan Project
  

“I can’t give you the full details, but I will tell you that I am working on something new”


-said Khaled, while promoting his We The Best concept store with Snipes. 


“Just know that my next move is going to be special.”


In 2017, DJ Khaled unveiled his first collaboration with Jordan Brand, the "Grateful" Air Jordan 3. With its vibrant red colourway, luxurious leather upper, and personalised details, this release set the tone for Khaled's future collaborations. Beyond its striking aesthetics, the "Grateful" AJ3 was a symbolic representation of Khaled's gratitude for his achievements and the unwavering support of his fan base. 

He then went on the release pairs such as the DJ Khaled x Air Jordan 3 “Another One” and the DJ Khaled x Air Jordan 3 “Father of Asahd”. 

Additionally, Khaled’s recent obsession with golf has aligned with Jordan Brand’s golf initiatives with the recent We the Best x Jordan Golf tournament. 

It remains unclear whether Khaled’s upcoming Jordan project is another sneaker collab, apparel, or something else entirely.

  

  

  

  

Yuto Horigome x Nike SB Dunk

 

Yuto Horigome's story begins on the vibrant streets of Tokyo, where a young boy's curiosity and fascination with skateboarding ignited a lifelong passion. From his first tentative steps on a board to mastering complex tricks, Horigome's journey was marked by unwavering determination and an innate ability to turn the urban landscape into his playground.

 

Working on top of a creamy all-white leather base, Yuto’s take on these ever-popular skating sneakers keeps things very neutral, with light grey overlays and chocolatey brown suede throughout. A cement grey Swoosh is used while additional Nike branding can be found stitched on both the tongue tag and heel badge.

Horigome's signature cross-feather logo is embroidered around the back, and across the insoles, and the custom graphics are made up of hundreds of pink cherry blossom petals, nodding to the national flower of Japan. These pairs are expected to release sometime towards the end of August 2023.

  

  

  

  

La Flame’s first signature sneaker model is set to release later this year.

 

Travis Scott cannot stay out of the news even if he tries. Just off the back of Utopia’s release date, Travis Scott is utilising his time in the spotlight to showcase not only new music but new pieces as well. Leading up to his latest music video with Bad Bunny and The Weeknd, Laflame was pictured with his upcoming signature shoe the Jordan Cut the Check.  Now, with the video’s release, Scott has offered a better look at what to expect from the much-anticipated sneaker. In addition to the signature backwards Swoosh, the silhouette affixes a branded strap over top a construction ostensibly inspired by existing Swoosh icons.

 

2023 looks to be turning out to be an exciting year for sneakers and streetwear.

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Levi Niekerk