When it comes to noteworthy sneaker collaborations as of late, a central theme is a nostalgic nod to times past.
We’ve seen it most recently in the youthful Adidas LEGO sneakers.
Now, a beloved childhood treat reappears with the Jolly Ranger X New Balance KAWHI Collection.
NBA superstar and former Toronto Raptor Kawhi Leonard teamed up with New Balance and his favourite (apparently) childhood candy company to produce the colourful sneaker and apparel collection inspired by a punchy bag of Jolly Ranchers. The Jolly Rancher brand is reflected in the two vibrant colourways, “Blue Raspberry’ and “Original Flavor.”
The signature New Balance KAWHI sneakers are the stars of the show in the new collection. They are accompanied by a pair of 327s, 480s, sport slides, and t-shirts.
The “Blue Raspberry” colourway appears in the 327 slide, while KAWHI and 480 boast the “Original Flavor.”
The KAWHI features nods to the basketball player, with design elements like his accolades on the tongue, cornrow-inspired embossing on the collar strap, an “M” on the heel, and both eyelets and a quilted heel tab that reference his 1964 classic car. The Jolly Rancher touch appears in translucent and glossy materials throughout.
Prices range from $35.00 USD for the slide sandal and $160 USD for the KAWHI kicks. The collection will drop in late October. We can also expect a Jolly Rancher-themed Kawhi collection, thanks to a partnership of New Balance and Hershey.
