If you work in an industry that requires you to go on rough terrains or if you live in an area where you normally go hiking or trekking, chances are you’ve owned a pair of CAT Footwear at one point or another. They’re one of the most popular brands when it comes to a pair of sturdy boots and they’re actually celebrating 100 years in the business. So how do you mark a century of making boots that last? By reaching for the stars!

CAT Footwear’s Centennial Collection Apollo 11 Boot is a celebration of adventure, innovation, and craftsmanship, wrapped up in a design that’s as cool as it is collectible. is inspired by the legendary moon landing in 1969. It’s a fitting tribute, especially since CAT’s parent company, Caterpillar, was involved in the building equipment for NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

Designer: CAT Footwear

The first thing you’ll notice is that stunning metallic silver upper! It’s bold, futuristic, and an unmistakable nod to the iconic suits worn by astronauts on the moon. The material gives the boot a modern, fashion-forward vibe that’s perfect for anyone who loves to make a statement. Whether you’re pairing them with jeans or putting them on display, they absolutely shine.

It also features embossed patches that pay tribute to the historic lunar landing, adding an extra layer of collectibility and depth to the design. There’s also a unique “moon crater” tread pattern on the sole—a clever touch that not only gives you grip, but also makes every step feel like you’re leaving your own mark on the moon.

The Apollo 11 Boot comes with bold, eye-catching laces that are high-contrast and chunky, just like the oversized pulls and fastenings you’d spot on a real space suit. The tongue and heel tabs are thoughtfully designed for easy on-and-off (because even astronauts need convenience!), and the overall silhouette blends classic CAT work-boot toughness with those playful, retro-futuristic details.

These boots pack all the comfort and durability that CAT Footwear is famous for. Expect a supportive footbed and a rugged outsole designed for real-world adventures (or, you know, just looking fabulous at your next collector’s meetup). The boots are as practical as they are stylish, making them wearable art.

If you’re the kind of person who likes rare things, then the fact that these boots are limited edition will entice you even more. Whether you’re a style lover, a space enthusiast, or a collector searching for your next prize, the CAT Centennial Collection Apollo 11 Boot is a head-turner from every angle. With its metallic finish, moon-inspired details, and tough construction, it’s a boot that’s truly out of this world.

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The Akairo Kozane-Oudoubyou-Hainou Gusoku has swagger that could make a manga protagonist jealous. No, it isn’t a specially crafted Katana by an ancient artisan, it’s a backpack. Conceived by Nagoya bag stalwart Murase Kabanko with leather artisan Noriki Okada, the backpack copies the tiered lamellae of sixteenth-century tosei-gusoku armor. Each slab of crimson leather is punched, lacquered, and stitched into position, then locked down with bulbous brass rivets that gleam like a rank of tsuba ready for battle. The result is sculpture masquerading as storage, equal parts museum piece and childhood power-up.

Empty, the pack tips the scale at roughly 2.1 kilograms, hefty yet believable given its steel-shod lineage. Price lands at ¥ 500,000, about $3,457 USD today, which feels almost fair considering the man-hours involved and the fact that every unit is built to order by a single craftsperson. Place the deposit, wait six months while Okada layers leather like a bonsai master prunes pine, then receive a tracking number that reads less like shipping info and more like an initiation scroll.

Designers: Murase Kabanko & Noriki Okada

Look closer, the “plates” are cut from off-cuts that would normally hit the scrap bin, a thrifty move that lets the studio indulge in outrageous detailing without guillotining entire hides. Those plates overlap along the lid and walls to build a scale-like shell, an echo of the laced kozane that once shrugged off arrows. Rivet heads keep the rhythm tight and provide useful contrast to the matte red topcoat. Down on the gusset, two snarling oni faces, embroidered in pitch-black silk, glare sideways as though daring anyone to steal your homework. It is maximalist, theatrical, even slightly ridiculous, and that is why it rules.

Functionally, it is sized like a classic ‘randoseru’ (or a traditional Japanese backpack), meaning an A4 notebook slides in squarely, though the brand goes out of its way to warn that this ornate variant prefers display shelves to playgrounds. Rivets can snag uniforms, the weight may outclass small shoulders, and there is no six-year repair guarantee. Still, if I could rewind to sixth grade, I would risk the detention slips. Imagine clomping into class with this crimson cuirass on your back, swapping shoes at the genkan while brass rivets twinkle under fluorescent lights. The class jock hugging his polyester duffel suddenly discovers humility, the art kid scribbles concept art of you as a rising shogun, even the homeroom teacher stops mid-roll-call to ask where you park your horse.

Beyond the schoolyard fantasy lies clever commentary on modern bag culture. Minimalism remains the default aesthetic, especially in high-end EDC, where designers chase blank facades and hidden seams. Murase Kabanko rejects that orthodoxy by shouting through form and texture. The backpack glorifies detail, turning every stitch into narrative texture and every rivet into punctuation. It reminds us that utility can coexist with theatrical presence and that heritage techniques never went out of style.

Material honesty plays a supporting role. Brass is chosen because that is exactly what battlefield fittings used, its density creating reassuring heft and a warm patina over time. Full-grain cowhide carries natural grain that breaks in like a well-oiled kote and, unlike synthetic composites, will survive decades if kept nourished. Even the decision to leave the edge paint slightly exposed mirrors the raw hems on historical sode panels. These small purist touches keep the bag from slipping into costume territory; it is cosplay with academic footnotes.

Cultural potency matters too. Japanese schoolchildren already treat the randoseru as rite of passage, a leather shell that sees them through six formative years. Grafting samurai iconography onto that symbol folds two powerful narratives together: scholastic journey and martial valor. Tourists may see an edgy souvenir, parents may worry about playground practicality, and gaming enthusiasts like me see glimpses of Gosaku’s Armor from hit PlayStation game The Ghost Of Tsushima.

Will it increase your GPA? Probably not. Will it convince the vice-principal to overlook your untucked shirt? Unlikely. But throw this backpack on your shoulders and every corridor becomes an Edo castle hallway, every chime of the period bell becomes the clang of a temple gong summoning retainers. If backpacks earn social XP, this one is a legendary drop, proof that sometimes character counts more than payload capacity.

The post This Samurai Armor-inspired Backpack might just make you the Coolest Kid in School first appeared on Yanko Design.

Every once in a while, a piece of jewelry comes along that feels like it was plucked straight from a daydream. Studio GOGO’s playful rings are exactly that: a clever blend of grown-up style and childlike wonder, created in the heart of Berlin. These curious little treasures are not your typical rings. They bring together the gleam of precious metal and the snap-happy fun of those colorful building bricks we all know and love.

At first glance, Studio GOGO’s rings look every bit the part of fine jewelry. Crafted from sterling silver or swathed in a warm gold finish, each ring is smooth and polished on the inside, with a softly matte outer surface that catches the light just right. The feel is weighty and satisfying, a reminder that these are serious pieces of craftsmanship. But then, you spot the top—an unmistakable grid ready and waiting for a set of bright, interlocking toy bricks.

Designer: Studio GOGO

That’s where the magic happens. The rings are secretly engineered to let you snap on your favorite mini blocks, figures, or even a tiny flower or two. One moment it’s a sleek, minimalist band, and the next it’s a miniature sculpture showing off your mood, your favorite color, or that little character you’ve kept since you were five. It is a grown-up accessory that refuses to take itself too seriously.

There is something irresistible about the contrast. On the one hand, you have the careful artistry of Berlin’s jewelry makers, each piece lovingly crafted, each detail considered. On the other, you get the joyful unpredictability of play. The result is a ring that feels both precious and playful, as comfortable at a gallery opening as it is at a weekend picnic. It is the kind of jewelry that starts conversations, sparks smiles, and, if we are being honest, invites a little envy from anyone who ever spent an afternoon building castles and spaceships on the living room floor.

The real fun comes from the endless ways you can personalize your ring. Swap out colors to match your outfit, add a whimsical figure for a laugh, or keep it simple with a single bright block. There is no wrong way to wear it—only your way. For those who love a bit of tactile fidgeting, it is hard to resist the urge to snap, unsnap, and rebuild all day long.

Studio GOGO’s rings are more than just a fashion statement. They are a wearable wink at nostalgia, a reminder that even as adults, we do not have to leave our sense of play behind. With every click and snap, these rings invite you to carry a little piece of childhood on your finger, wrapped in the glow of silver or gold. When living in a world that sometimes feels a little too serious, it’s nice to have a ring that invites you to play.

The post Buildable Bling Rings Turn Childhood Fun into Wearable Treasure first appeared on Yanko Design.

I’m pretty “conservative” when it comes to shoes. Most of the time I wear sneakers and even they sport the common and usual kind of designs. So if you ask me if I would be willing to wear a rock or boulder, my answer would probably be not. But if you’re the type of person who likes that specific brand of footwear that most people don’t like, then you may be interested in this “daring” kind of shoe that would definitely get people talking when they see you.

In a daring fusion of sculpture and footwear, artist CANYOAN and Bravest Studios have unveiled the Rock Shoe, a surreal slipper that looks like you’re cushioning your stride atop a mossy boulder. Bravest Studios is actually known for fearless collaborations like their “Toe Slides,” and this time they dive deeper into the interplay of sculpture and utility. The design thrives on contrast: solid stone appearance, yet lightweight and soft to the touch which is actually a visual paradox that challenges our understanding of what footwear can be.

Designers: CANYOAN and Bravest Studios

These shoes are molded from lightweight, closed-cell EVA foam, which provides a soft, pillowy sensation and spring-back resilience that mimics real rocks compressing under weight but returning to shape afterward. In fact, each pair of these unique shoes are hand-painted with layered, realistic moss patches as if you were actually wearing rocks that have moss growing on them. The rock-like shell is formed through panel joins that enhance the rough, naturalistic silhouette. While visually cozy, these closed shoes may be less breathable for summer wear but may be ideal for colder seasons.

Even though they appear hefty and clunky—like chunks of solid rock strapped to your feet—these shoes are surprisingly soft and lightweight, thanks to their high-quality foam-like material. Because of EVA foam, the Rock Shoes provide a cushiony, almost cloud-like feel when worn, offering comfort that sharply contrasts their rugged exterior. The closed-cell structure also gives the material excellent resilience; it compresses gently under pressure but immediately rebounds, allowing the shoes to retain their original form even after extended use. This not only enhances durability but also ensures that the unique sculptural silhouette of each pair remains intact over time, making them as practical as they are visually striking.

The Rock Shoe is not just footwear but also an artistic statement. They invite wearers to explore the gray area between practicality and imagination. These shoes preserve the playful spirit of wearable art, if you’re the adventurous type who’s willing to wear not just shoes but “rocks”.

The post Rock Shoes lets you wear boulders (with moss!) on your feet first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Puzzle bag by Loewe is iconic for its groundbreaking design, which blends architectural precision with everyday functionality. Introduced in 2015 by creative director Jonathan Anderson, it was the first major handbag he developed for the house and instantly stood out for its cuboid silhouette made from meticulously cut and assembled leather panels. Its origami-like structure allows it to fold flat, an innovation that marries artistry with practicality. Beyond its clever construction, the Puzzle bag symbolizes Loewe’s revival under Anderson’s direction—celebrated for its craftsmanship, versatility, and instantly recognizable shape, making it a modern classic in luxury fashion.

Loewe is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its iconic Puzzle bag with a vibrant pop-up installation at Harrods in London, showcasing the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. Introduced in 2015 by then-creative director Jonathan Anderson, the Puzzle bag quickly became a symbol of Loewe’s modern approach to luxury. Its distinctive cuboid shape, crafted from precisely cut leather panels, reflects the brand’s dedication to artisanal techniques. The bag’s unique design allows it to fold flat, combining practicality with avant-garde aesthetics.

Designer: Loewe

To commemorate this milestone, Loewe has unveiled the ‘Puzzle 10’ collection, featuring 19 reimagined versions of the original bag and one new design. Highlights include the ‘Confetti’ bag, adorned with colorful leather and metal sequins, and collaborations with artists like William Morris and Joe Brainard, showcasing the brand’s fusion of fashion and art. The Harrods pop-up offers an immersive experience, displaying the diverse iterations of the Puzzle bag in an exhibition-like setting. The installation not only celebrates the bag’s evolution but also pays homage to Anderson’s transformative impact on Loewe, blending fashion with cultural and artistic elements.

As Loewe looks to the future, the 10th anniversary of the Puzzle bag is more than just a milestone—it’s a celebration of bold creativity, expert craftsmanship, and a design that has defined a generation of modern luxury. Over the past decade, the Puzzle bag has transcended seasonal trends to become a true design icon, admired not only for its distinctive geometric structure but also for its versatility and wearability. From Harrods to high fashion runways, it has made its mark as a piece that seamlessly bridges function and form, admired by fashion insiders, collectors, and everyday style enthusiasts alike.

The anniversary collection and immersive Harrods installation highlight how the bag has evolved while staying true to its core identity: an object of beauty, precision, and cultural relevance. As Loewe continues to push boundaries and explore new frontiers in fashion, the enduring legacy of the Puzzle bag stands as a powerful symbol of what happens when heritage meets innovation.

The post Loewe celebrates 10 years of the Puzzle bag with exhibit first appeared on Yanko Design.

The world of footwear has evolved beyond mere function, now embodying innovation, identity, and the integration of technology. Today’s most captivating shoes push boundaries and challenge expectations, inviting enthusiasts to explore bold designs and unexpected features. From collaborations that merge classic comfort with digital displays to AI-crafted silhouettes and energy-returning soles, each design represents a leap into the future of style and performance.

For collectors and everyday wearers alike, these sneakers and slides are more than accessories—they are statements, conversation starters, and experiences. The current era of footwear is defined by creativity and experimentation, where every new release offers a fresh perspective on what shoes can be. As technology and artistry converge, footwear enthusiasts have the opportunity to embrace designs that support movement and also inspire excitement and curiosity with every step.

1. G-Shock x Crocs Echo Wave

The G-Shock x Crocs Echo Wave brings together two giants in their respective fields for a collaboration that feels both playful and purposeful. These clogs glow in the dark and integrate a time display into the strap, a feature that immediately sets them apart from any other pair in your closet. For sneakerheads and collectors, the combination of G-Shock’s deep-rooted identity in timekeeping and Crocs’ comfort-driven design is irresistible, offering a fresh way to express personality and function.

Footwear enthusiasts will appreciate how the Echo Wave turns a simple slip-on into a conversation piece. The glowing upper captures attention on night walks or at festivals, while the digital time display brings unexpected utility. This is a shoe for those who want their footwear to stand out and do more than just cover their feet. It’s a unique statement, merging nostalgia, technology, and comfort in a single pair.

What we like

• Integrated time display is a unique, wearable tech feature.
• Glow-in-the-dark material adds visual flair and nighttime usefulness.

What we dislike

• The digital display could be prone to wear in harsh conditions.
• The daring design may not appeal to those who prefer classic styles.

2. Syntilay Slides

The Syntilay slides are the result of AI-powered design and 3D printing, offering a glimpse into the future of how shoes are imagined and manufactured. Each pair is produced with a striking, almost sculptural silhouette that feels more like wearable art than typical slides. For fashion-forward footwear enthusiasts, these slides promise not just comfort but a visual experience that pushes the boundaries of what slides can be.

Fans of innovation will appreciate how these slides reimagine the process of footwear creation, moving away from mass production into the realm of digital customization. The 3D-printed structure ensures a precise fit and unique tactile sensation, making every step feel intentional.

What we like

• 3D printing allows for custom fit and avant-garde design.
• AI-driven process leads to truly unique silhouettes.

What we dislike

• May lack the durability of traditional, time-tested materials.
• The bold, futuristic look might not suit every wardrobe.

3. Nike’s Gyakusou Zoom Fly SP

Nike’s Gyakusou Zoom Fly SP is built for performance, blending speed-focused technology with the style sensibilities of Undercover’s Jun Takahashi. The result is a lightweight sneaker with a translucent upper and bold accents, designed for runners who want to stand out as much as they want to go fast. Footwear enthusiasts will find the combination of Nike’s running innovation and fashion-forward design especially appealing.

The Zoom Fly SP’s responsive cushioning and aerodynamic form make it a favorite among those who value both aesthetics and athletic achievement. The shoe’s construction supports long-distance runs, while its design cues nod to streetwear and fashion culture. For anyone who finds inspiration at the intersection of sport and style, the Gyakusou Zoom Fly SP is a must-have, delivering performance and personality in equal measure.

What we like

• Lightweight and supportive for high-performance running.
• Eye-catching design bridges athletic and streetwear influences.

What we dislike

• The translucent upper may show wear or discoloration over time.
• Premium pricing limits accessibility for some enthusiasts.

4. NASA x Crocs Concept Shoes

Vadim Sadovski’s AI-generated NASA x Crocs concept shoes take inspiration from the lunar surface, reinterpreting the iconic Crocs silhouette with crater-like textures and anti-gravity sole forms. While these shoes remain conceptual, they ignite the imagination of collectors and design lovers who dream of footwear that pushes far beyond convention. The rocky, mottled upper and innovative sole design showcase how AI can stretch creativity in unexpected directions.

Footwear enthusiasts who love to speculate about the future of design will find these Crocs captivating. The cratered surface invites tactile exploration and sparks conversation, while the idea of anti-gravity inspired soles teases what could be possible in years to come. For those who see shoes as canvases for exploration and artistry, Sadovski’s concepts are a fascinating study in the merging of AI, space-age inspiration, and familiar comfort.

What we like

• Visually stunning concept that reimagines a classic silhouette.
• AI-driven design brings new textures and forms to footwear.

What we dislike

• Conceptual status means they are not available for purchase.
• Unconventional aesthetics may not transition easily to everyday wear.

5. Mizuno Energy Shoes

The Mizuno Enerzy sneakers bring a bold, bubbly aesthetic to the world of high-performance footwear. Debuting in all-black for Osaka Expo 2025, these sneakers feature a distinctive, energy-returning midsole with oversized, undulating bubbles that promise a unique sensation with every step. For those who love to collect or wear statement sneakers, the Mizuno Enerzy offers a clear departure from the ordinary.

Enthusiasts will appreciate how the Enerzy line blends Mizuno’s technical expertise with a willingness to experiment visually. The sneaker’s design is as much about feel as it is about looks, inviting wearers to experience the bounce and softness of the innovative midsole. Whether on display or in use, these shoes offer a tactile and visual journey, catering to those who want their footwear to be as progressive as their lifestyle.

What we like

• Unique midsole construction delivers a distinct, cushioned ride.
• All-black colorway offers versatility with futuristic design elements.

What we dislike

• The exaggerated silhouette may not appeal to minimalists.
• Limited availability tied to special events or releases.

The post 5 Best Futuristic Footwear Designs Of May 2025 Blending Technology, Innovation, & Style first appeared on Yanko Design.

From the mind of the ever-creative David Delahunty, this MS Paint make-up kit is ridiculous in all the right ways. It comes with a canvas that also functions as a mirror, a literal paintbrush, and a few paint swatches that let you brush away on your skin, looking like your best self for a night out.

The MS Paint make-up kit, although entirely conceptual, would be perfect for graphic designers! It’s quirky yet functional, and translates one of the most iconic interfaces of our time into a regular daily object in a way that’s brilliantly tongue-in-cheek. This is absolutely the kind of quirky craziness you could expect from Delahunty, given that he’s also given us gems like this Apple beach-ball-themed Wilson tennis ball.

Designer: David Delahunty

Now I’m no make-up enthusiast, so every bit of appreciation from me is purely for Delahunty’s creativity. The makeup kit comes with a lid featuring a mirror, as well as as a faux toolbar, menu bar, and even those Windows 95-style minimize, maximize, and close program buttons. The words ‘untitled – Paint’ on the top left are a signature part of every new project, and feel like a nice homage here.

Move down, however, and you’ve got the actual makeup shades, including 8 light skin-colored swatches, an applicator brush, and a few other fake swatches that look like the default colors you’d see on the bottom of the program. They’re there just as an illusion, obviously, but it would probably be fun if you could use those too, maybe for highlights or as an eyeliner.

The MS Paint make-up kit is obviously not real, but I really wish it were, because I know at least 20 designers who would absolutely LOVE to own something as beautifully quirky as this. If you’re reading this, Delahunty, take it as a sign to make a limited set now and watch as the money flows in… before Temu or AliExpress beat you to the punch.

The post Quirky MS Paint make-up kit totally plays on the idea of a color ‘palette’ first appeared on Yanko Design.

There’s something undeniably charming about a watch that refuses to blend in with the crowd. Smartwatches are handy, sure, but their uniform screens and familiar shapes tend to drain away any hope of real personality. That’s why so many watch collectors and design fans keep turning to mechanical and digital timepieces, where creativity can run wild and a little flair is always welcome. If you’ve ever wanted a wrist accessory that sparks a smile or a conversation, the PROTO X Retro Future Digital Watch could be exactly what your collection needs.

This quirky digital watch tosses out the rulebook when it comes to traditional watchmaking. The whole thing looks like it could’ve been ripped straight from the golden era of vintage tech, or maybe even the props department of a 1980s sci-fi movie. Its square case and boldly exposed electronics give it a “circuit board chic” vibe, while the transparent design lets you peek at the heart of the machine. There’s something playfully subversive about wrapping visible tech around your wrist in a way that feels both nostalgic and unexpected.

Designer: 830 Watch Store (Hachisanmaru)

The display is a throwback in the best possible way, relying on a 7-segment LCD for pure, old-school digital charm. No fancy animations or color screens here, just crisp, straightforward numbers that call back to the gadgets of decades past. With a simple quartz crystal oscillator at its core, the watch keeps accurate time, displaying hours in a 24-hour LED format. All it takes is a press of the left button to light up the time, and a quick push on the right to set it, making daily operation as intuitive as it gets.

Customization is another reason the Proto X stands out in a sea of cookie-cutter wearables. The bands come in a mix of monochrome and colored retro designs, each one echoing the quirky patterns and colored components that defined vintage electronics. Whether you want something subdued or a mix of colors, there’s a strap to match your mood and your wardrobe. It’s a welcome nod to the days when tech wasn’t afraid to experiment with personality.

Of course, the exposed electronics mean you’ll want to treat this watch with a bit more care than your average digital piece. It’s splash-resistant, so everyday encounters with water droplets won’t be a problem, but serious submersion is off the table. This slight fragility is part of its charm, though, making it feel like a genuine artifact from a wilder era of design.

Produced in small batches, the Proto X Retro Futuristic Digital Watch isn’t for everyone. Its appeal is deeply rooted in nostalgia and the playful spirit of retro-futurism. It’s less about packing in features and more about projecting a sense of individuality and fun. If you’re a collector, a lover of quirky accessories, or simply someone who enjoys the intersection of tech and imagination, this watch is a bold little statement that proves style can be just as important as substance.

The post PROTO X Retro Future Digital Watch Channels Vintage Tech With Playful Style first appeared on Yanko Design.

Sneaker designs are becoming bolder now with a lot of designers looking to break out of the mold in order to stand out of a competitive market. No longer confined to the standard silhouettes and materials, today’s sneaker landscape is witnessing a surge of innovation—where the line between fashion, art, and functionality blurs. Even established brands are embracing this evolution, introducing designs like ballerina-inspired sneakers, and experimenting with unconventional materials such as mesh, metallic finishes, textured leathers, and even automotive-grade surfaces, like one pair reportedly inspired by the Tesla Cybertruck. While most will probably still stick to the more traditional (and comfortable) sneaker designs and just experiment with colors and prints, there are still the more fashion adventurous people that would look for something out of the ordinary.

EXOSKYN emerges as a bold manifesto—an experimental sneaker that challenges everything we know about footwear. This debut design from emerging brand KORUX, created by Lyon-based designer Mahdi Naim, is not just a shoe — it’s an architectural exploration, a sculptural statement, and a seamless fusion of technology, design, and the human form. At first glance, it will get your attention because of its otherworldly silhouette. Look closer, and its intricacies reveal a deeper narrative. Drawing direct inspiration from the skeletal structure of the human foot, the sneaker’s design is more than aesthetic, it’s anatomical. Fluid, organic, and radically sculptural, its lattice-like architecture, composed of dynamic ribbing and continuous lines, mimics the interplay of bones and connective tissue. The result is a form that feels less like a shoe and more like an extension of the body.

Designer: Mahdi Naim

What truly sets EXOSKYN apart is how it’s made. Using cutting-edge 3D-printing technology, each pair is printed as a single piece, eliminating seams, reducing waste, and enhancing structural integrity. The material—both flexible and durable—is engineered for real-world comfort and movement, offering surprising walkability for such a bold concept shoe. It’s industrial design meets fashion tech, with every contour calibrated for a body-responsive fit.

This is part of the limited-edition Print Step collection, a series that pushes the boundaries of on-demand manufacturing and digital craftsmanship. Rather than following traditional sneaker conventions, it deconstructs them, exploring new narratives of form and fabrication. There are no logos or loud branding—just form, function, and futurism. Each pair is made to order, emphasizing individuality over mass production.

With a background steeped in industrial design and advanced 3D printing, Mahdi Naim brings a sharp, avant-garde perspective to footwear. EXOSKYN reflects his deep understanding of how technology and the body can coalesce into wearable design. This is not fashion for fashion’s sake; it’s a visionary edge that asks: What happens when you write code, and it becomes something you can walk in?

EXOSKYN is indeed a radical departure—a conceptual leap that opens the door to entirely new possibilities in design, production, and wearability. It’s a sneaker for those who see fashion as a canvas for innovation, for those who want to move not just with style, but with purpose.

The post 3D-printed sneaker is inspired from the skeletal structure of the foot first appeared on Yanko Design.

It is not out of the ordinary to find Lego builders tinkering with their fantasy and creating Nike sneakers out of LEGO pieces alone. You would remember the Hungarian builder Tamás Borján, who created a Nike Air Jordan 11 using nothing but our beloved plastic building blocks. It is the creations like these that have always left us fans yearning for an official partnership between our two loves – LEGO and Nike – to come together for an official shoe that you and I can flaunt.

Our wish was granted last year when the two brands tied the knot; coming together to “inspire a world where sport and creative play always win.” Leaving us bearded out of the fun, the partnership is directed at promoting ‘sports and creative play’ for all kids. If it doesn’t bother you, and you want to appreciate what the two stalwarts in their own ways are creating, check out the LEGO x Nike Air Max Dn: the first fruit of their merriment sprouting out in pictures on the internet.

Designer: Nike

It’s darn yellow for a shoe, but that’s probably the color kids need to walk the streets in 2025. The playful outing in LEGO’s signature yellow, is fun and fantastic for Nike, and that love for this collaboration shows vividly on the sneaker. The Swoosh brand has not shied away from sharing the branding and overlaying the upper with tactile rubber studs that mimic the plastic bricks.

Nike takes the Swoosh from the lateral setting and slaps it on the back of the heel counter and under the foot. The sides of the shoe instead have the rubber studs, while the usual Air Max Dn on the tongue label is replaced with the LEGO logo. For more nuances, the Air Bubbles in the sole feature logos and minifigures. And because it’s dear, the sneaker is not coming out without a matching package. A special packaging has therefore been prepared for the collaborative silhouette.

While you’d expect the LEGO x Nike Air Max Dn to land as soon as possible, there is no definite release date yet. Speculation is, the sneaker could release in kids’ sizing in August this year, starting at $160. Both Nike and LEGO have chosen to stay silent on this for now. But, back in 2024 when they sealed the multi-year collaboration deal, a line-up of co-branded products was assured to be released this year. The LEGO x Nike Air Max Dn could be the start of a long list of Nike products with LEGO treatment we are going to see in the coming days. So are you game for this cool pair of shoes?

The post LEGO x Nike Air Max Dn bright yellow sneaker likely to drop in August, starting $160 first appeared on Yanko Design.