Kanye West (@Ye) announced a new YZY product drop on Instagram this week, amid teasers for his upcoming album "BULLY". The release features a clothing collection designed by Gosha Rubchinskiy and introduces a new footwear model called the SL-01. West emphasized in his post that the shoe was developed independently, without collaboration from other brands.
The SL-01 continues the design direction seen in last year's Pods release. The shoe consists of a single-piece construction that fits like a sock, with no added decorative elements. The all-black design appears to be made from rubber, though specific material details haven't been confirmed by the brand.
The collection's pricing stands out in today's footwear market, with the SL-01 retailing at $19.95. It's available online in multiple sizes. This price point marks a departure from West's previous footwear ventures, including his collections with adidas, which typically sold at premium prices.
This release follows West's split from adidas in 2022. The SL-01 appears to reflect his stated goal of creating more accessible fashion, while maintaining control over design and pricing decisions. The launch also showcases his continued focus on minimal aesthetics in footwear design.
The broader YZY drop includes various clothing pieces designed in collaboration with Gosha Rubchinskiy, marking a new creative partnership for the brand. This release represents West's first independent footwear launch since establishing his new business structure.
Eric Grischott
Born in Groningen in 1991, Eric Grischott is a linguist with a deep-rooted passion for art, music, and fashion. His academic journey led him to graduate in languages, further enriching his linguistic prowess. His thirst for knowledge and cultural immersion took him abroad, where he gained invaluable experience and insights. Eric’s linguistic expertise is not confined to just theory. He has honed his skills in French and German through specialized DELF and DELE courses, demonstrating his commitment to mastering these languages. His passions extend beyond languages, encompassing the creative realms of art, the rhythmic world of music, and the dynamic sphere of fashion.