In the world of fashion, Balenciaga has built a reputation for unpredictable moves, and its latest collaboration proves that statement true once again. Following a tumultuous year marked by controversies and a temporary pause on partnerships, Balenciaga has resurfaced with a headline-grabbing team-up: a collaboration with Under Armour. After months of teasers at various Fashion Weeks, this intriguing pairing is ready for its full reveal, featuring two innovative sneaker models and an array of co-branded apparel.
Footwear Focus: The 3XL Knit
The centerpiece of this collaboration is the revamped Balenciaga 3XL Knit. Under Armour's input is evident in the knit upper design, inspired by their mainline running shoes. This marks a departure from the original 3XL, which featured leather overlays integrated into mesh, and embraces a sleeker, performance-oriented aesthetic. One noticeable change is the removal of the signature pre-distressed details that defined previous 3XL releases, replaced by a more streamlined, clean look that blends high fashion with Under Armour’s athletic identity.
Despite the updates, the 3XL Knit retains its hallmark ultra-chunky sole, a polarizing feature that contributed to the internet’s fascination and laid the groundwork for the subsequent 6XL. This collaboration will offer the 3XL Knit in two contrasting colorways: one with understated black hues and another in elegant, stippled white.
Introducing the Balenciaga Hyper
The second sneaker in the lineup is the Balenciaga Hyper, a new silhouette jointly developed by both brands. Featuring a ribbed slip-on polyester upper, the Hyper calls to mind both the Speed Knit and the Sock Sneaker, but with a modern twist that merges Under Armour’s focus on performance with Balenciaga’s bold design ethos. The shape evokes Under Armour’s sportswear range, particularly their soccer cleats, while the textured upper and reflective accents push it firmly into high-fashion territory.
Apparel and Availability
Beyond footwear, the collaboration extends to a collection of co-branded apparel that will launch alongside the sneakers. Each pair of shoes is now available for pre-order, with the 3XL Knit priced at $1,190 and the Hyper retailing at a slightly lower $995. For a closer look at all four sneaker styles, check out the images provided and secure your pre-orders through the corresponding links.
This unexpected pairing of Under Armour and Balenciaga showcases the blending of high fashion and functional sportswear, offering a new perspective on what collaborations can achieve in the fashion-sneaker landscape.
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