Known for redefining streetwear with luxury sensibilities, Off-White, founded by the legendary Virgil Abloh, is set to make another impactful entry into the world of footwear. This time, it’s not a collaborative endeavor with Nike. Instead, an inline silhouette dubbed The Baller has made the rounds online due to its neck-breaking design.
The Baller basketball sneaker embodies Off-White's distinctive design ethos, drawing direct inspiration from the aesthetics of a traditional basketball. The sneaker features a pebbled orange leather upper that mimics the texture of a basketball, interspersed with black lines that delineate the panels, much like the segments on a basketball. This design is further accentuated with retro-style font and phrases that evoke a sense of nostalgia and a deep connection to the game. Phrases such as "AUTOGRAPH HERE" and "FOR ANKLE BREAKERS ONLY" add a playful element and pay tribute to basketball culture.
The sneaker's medial side features Off-White's iconic branding in a unique, patriotic blue with white stars embedded within the text, offering a visually striking contrast to the orange leather. A notable and whimsical detail is the inclusion of an inflation valve near the lateral toe, adding an authentic basketball touch to the design, albeit likely for aesthetic purposes only. The shoe is completed with a lockdown strap that ensures a snug fit, further embellished with Off-White's branding.
The Off-White The Baller will release as part of the Off-White Fall/Winter 2024 collection. As of this writing, the retail price has not been announced, though expect to pair the high prices Off-White charges for its products. Keep it locked to the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Off-White The Baller
Images via ibkamara
