Mizuno’s recent collaboration with One Block Down marks a significant moment in the company’s history, fusing traditional craftsmanship with contemporary streetwear culture. The “Flame Wave,” a sneaker born from this partnership, serves as a tribute to Mizuno’s century-long history, highlighting its enduring influence on subcultures worldwide. One Block Down, a powerhouse in the streetwear scene, brings its unique perspective and deep-rooted connection to various subcultures, adding a fresh layer of relevance and authenticity to the collaboration.
Founded at the turn of the 20th century in Osaka, Japan, Mizuno quickly established itself as a leader in the world of high-performance sporting goods. The brand’s journey has been marked by an unwavering commitment to innovation, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology. Mizuno’s products found favor with athletes and sports enthusiasts, but in the 2000s, the brand’s appeal broadened to capture the imagination of a broader audience. The fusion of style and functionality in Mizuno’s offerings resonated with global subcultures, solidifying its place as an icon in both the sports and fashion worlds.
Today, Mizuno stands as a testament to unwavering quality and innovation. The brand’s commitment to excellence has inspired athletes and fans around the world and continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in footwear design.
The “Flame Wave” collaboration brings forth a new sneaker model available in three striking colors: black, red and green. Drawing inspiration from Mizuno’s rich archives, the shoe features a reimagined upper adorned with flame-shaped details made of anodized material that seamlessly blends with the classic Wave Rider 10 sole. This intricate design can be seen from every angle, highlighting the brand’s attention to detail.
The shoe is not the only highlight of this collaboration. An exclusive capsule collection accompanies the release of the sneaker, offering a range of apparel and accessories that complement the “Flame Wave” theme. The collection includes a black tracksuit made in Italy, featuring both One Block Down and Mizuno branding and accented with flame-shaped reflective piping details. A red tank top, black running shorts and a black hat, all featuring distinctive branding and themed prints, complete the collection. In addition, a Breath Thermo Balaclava, a technical balaclava with reflective branding prints, adds a functional yet stylish touch to the capsule.
The campaign for the “Flame Wave” collaboration was shot on three continents, celebrating the global influence and heritage of both Mizuno and One Block Down. The locations – Italy, Brazil and Japan – were carefully chosen to represent One Block Down’s headquarters, the birthplace of Mizuno, and Brazil’s significant adoption of the Mizuno brand, particularly within the sportlife subculture.
For those interested in owning a piece of this unique collaboration, the “Flame Wave” sneakers and accompanying capsule collection are available for purchase on the One Block Down website, as well as in their physical stores in Milan, Rome and Paris.
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© Photos: Mizuno
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