Balenciaga and Under Armour have officially announced their highly anticipated collaboration, bringing together two seemingly disparate brands in a bold and unexpected move. This partnership marks a significant departure from Balenciaga’s previous endeavors, especially after the controversy surrounding their ad campaign last summer. The collaboration boasts a wide range of offerings, with footwear taking center stage. For sneaker enthusiasts, the 3XL Knit and Balenciaga Hyper are the main attractions, showcasing the perfect blend of Under Armour’s performance-driven design and Balenciaga’s high-fashion sensibilities.
The 3XL Knit is a reimagined version of the original 3XL, with Under Armour’s flat knit upper design taking precedence over traditional leather overlays. This fresh take on the classic silhouette is a welcome change, offering a more streamlined and minimalist aesthetic. Gone are the over-the-top details and bold logos, replaced by a sleek and understated design that is sure to appeal to fans of both brands. Two colorways are available, with the sleek black option exuding a sense of sophistication and the dotted white option evoking a more luxurious feel.
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One of the standout features of the 3XL Knit is its ultra chunky sole design, which has been a topic of discussion among sneaker enthusiasts. Love it or hate it, this bold design choice is sure to turn heads and spark conversation. Under Armour’s influence is evident in the sole design, which bears a striking resemblance to some of their performance-oriented footwear.
The Balenciaga Hyper, on the other hand, is an entirely new silhouette that showcases the best of both brands. The ribbed polyester slip-on upper is a masterclass in design, offering the perfect blend of comfort and style. The sheer height and shape of the shoe are reminiscent of Under Armour’s Speed Knit and Balenciaga’s Sock Sneaker, but the Hyper feels like a true original. The overall shape of the shoe is sleek and streamlined, with a nod to Under Armour’s performance apparel, particularly its football cleats. However, the texture and reflective accents underfoot are unmistakably Balenciaga, adding a touch of high fashion flair to the design.
In addition to the four sneaker styles, Under Armour and Balenciaga have also collaborated on a range of apparel options that will launch simultaneously. The shoes are available for pre-order now, with the 3XL Knit retailing at $1,190 and the Hyper at a more accessible $995. While the prices may be steep for some, the quality and craftsmanship of these shoes are undeniable.
