Kenzo Launches Running-Inspired Sneaker, Its Second Under Nigo’s Creative Direction
Stephen Garner
Senior Editor
Kenzo has launched its second sneaker under the creative direction of Nigo, who joined the LVMH-owned brand as artistic director in 2021.
Dubbed the Kenzo-Pace sneaker, the running-inspired silhouette takes a “highly technical” and “aerodynamic” approach to the category, the brand said in a statement. Its name was chosen to highlight the notion of speed conveyed by its sporty look, Kenzo added.
To bring this sneaker to life, Kenzo worked with a specialist factory in Vietnam and created a technical polyurethane upper that’s mixed with various mesh combinations. The sneaker also features a maximalist outsole that’s shock-absorbing and lightweight, and is punctuated by reflective logo detailing, and contrasting graphics on the outsole that are a nod to the stripes of a tiger.
The style will be available for both men and women in a palette of all-white, all-black, and silver and white, as well as a combination of blue and black for men and pink and white for women.
The Kenzo-Pace sneaker, which retails for $470, is now available in Kenzo stores and at Kenzo.com.
The third drop of the Kenzo by Nigo debut sneaker series will be announced later this year.
This is the latest move for the brand since Nigo took over the creative helm. In May, Kenzo launched its first sneaker designed by its new artistic director. Dubbed the Kenzo-Dome sneaker, the minimalist cupsole shoe was inspired by skateboarding silhouettes that dominated the mid-1990s.
Last year, Saks Fifth Avenue became the first luxury retailer in the North American market to launch Kenzo by Nigo with its limited-edition spring drops. The limited-edition drops led up to the introduction of Nigo’s first full collection for the fall 2022 season that Saks will carry across 10 doors and online.
