We always enjoy a well-executed collaboration, especially when that collaboration pays homage to a brand’s healthy legacy from decades prior. Converse’s Auckland Modern is one such collaboration with Nike and the HTM design collective – which consists of Fragment founder Hiroshi Fujiwara, Nike design legend Tinker Hatfield, and Nike CEO and designer Mark Parker.
Specifically, the Auckland takes its inspiration from the Converse’s previous collaborations with runners and their coaches in the ‘70s and ‘80s. In turn, it features a vintage design wrapped in modern charm. The new construction takes into account contemporary sport-inspired innovations with a noticeably clean look. There’s a knit upper with TPU overlays that increase comfort and resilience to wear and it also features Nike’s lightweight Hyperfuse construction for support. Thanks to the Auckland’s Pylon outsole, wearers will enjoy lightweight cushioning and its deep flex grooves facilitate natural motion, a monumental advantage that runners look for in a quality shoe. All in all, it’s a brilliant collaboration perfect for both seasoned and novice runners. Available now for $130. [Purchase]
