Fusion of design and performance. A fashion designer talks about the hidden potential of zigkinetica.Vol.02 | feature

Fusion of design and performance. A Fashion Designer Talks about the Hidden Potential of Zigkinetica Vol.02

In order to maximize the performance of athletes, sports brands are applying various technologies to their products. The ZIG KINETICA CONCEPT TYPE 1 released by Reebok is one such product. The ZIG KINETICA CONCEPT TYPE 1 is the successor to the ZIG TECH, which boasted such high performance that it was banned from being worn in certain marathon competitions. The design was created by Ian Paley of Garbstore, who has a close relationship with this brand. We asked fashion designers who have collaborated with Reebok in the past to inspect this new model, which combines performance and stylish design. Joining us this time is Kohei Ohkita of "VINL ARCHIVE".

Photo_Kazumasa Takeuchi [STUH].

Text_Yuichiro Tsuji

Edit_Hiroshi Yamamoto

This kind of product will remain forever. I want to make it someday.

Mr. Ohkita says, "Basically, I only wear black shoes. On this day, he chose "Black/Alloy/Rose Dust" color.

You are wearing Reebok's new "Zigkinetica Concept Type 1" this time.

Great North:This is nice. I like the shape.

Please tell us your first impression when you saw these shoes.

Great North:I thought it was a bit of a skip (laughs). I still have an image of the old "Jig Tech" in my mind, but this is a very sophisticated design.

ZIG KINETICA CONCEPT TYPE 1
Each ¥18,000+TAX

The sole is equipped with the ZIG Energy System. It reduces energy loss when walking or running. The color scheme of the midsole, with layers of gray, white, and orange, is also noteworthy.

The upper is intricately constructed with colorful fabrics. The minimal use of stitching work and the use of a crimp technique instead is also a key feature of this minimalist finish. The guidance band on the upper is removable.

This is not an item for the fashion market, but rather a performance shoe. However, Ian Paley of "Garbstore" designed these shoes, and they were made with fashion in mind.

Great North:I like the design. I think the use of mesh has a nostalgic feel to it. It's somewhat "Kamikaze" like, and I think it's an interesting sneaker. I also like that it's not Reebok-like in a good way.

How do you feel about the comfort of the shoes?

Great North:They are fine. Before I put them on, I was concerned about the fact that the kakato was raised, but when I actually put them on, I don't feel uncomfortable at all.

How important is function when choosing shoes?

Great North:I wish I had some. I wear high-tech shoes like these, but I also like low-tech, vulcanized sneakers. In those cases, I almost never think about functionality. But these look amazing.

Vinyl Archive has released collaborative models with Reebok Classic, but do you have any desire to work on performance line shoes as well?

Great North:I would like to try it, I am interested. These shoes probably take 2 to 3 years to develop. I think it is just like building a car. On the other hand, in the fashion world, where we work, we have to design at a much faster pace. That is why I admire the act of thinking about a concept and taking time to create a satisfying item. These products will last forever. That is why I envy them.