In a follow-up to the release of its CENTRE 0.1 and Varick 0.1 sneakers, STAPLE takes on its next challenge as it collaborates with Vibram on a fresh slide silhouette.
The new arrival expertly harnesses the technical StratX compound to reimagine the Jeff Staple-founded label’s pigeon emblem in a wingspan-inspired upper, making it the first exclusive release of StratX in the US. First used for a Slam Jam collaboration and later showcased at Pitti Uomo, the Vibram-engineered material – molded from rubber sheet and engineered through vacuum-forming – helps shape the sculptural, feathered form while giving the slide a supple yet durable quality similar to leather.
“We could’ve used printing, embroidery, or laser etching – but we asked ourselves, what if it was shaped and molded?” Staple reflects on the minimalist design. “Vibram’s innovative new StratX compound was the answer. Instead of adding design to a surface, we wanted to shape the surface itself.”
In addition to the undulating upper, the sole also adopts the material to achieve an ergonomic curved shape, defined by a split black and white colorway. Not taking away from the innovation appearing across the slide, for the finishing touch, STAPLE’s logo is etched subtly alongside Vibram’s signature branding.
Limited to 50 pairs, the upcoming drop will be available tomorrow from STAPLE’s recently opened flagship store on Mercer Street, New York.
Head to Vibram’s website to learn more about how Vibram StratX is shaping the future of footwear design.
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