GXFR and Saucony are back with another statement-making collaboration. Following the success of their previous projects, the latest release introduces the GXFR x Saucony Grid Jazz 9 “Awesome Gods”, a bold interpretation of one of the brand’s most beloved silhouettes.
Created in partnership with Westside Gunn and his GXFR (Griselda by Fashion Rebels) universe, the collaboration continues the Buffalo rapper’s growing influence within the footwear space. Known for approaching fashion with the same artistic mindset that has defined his music, Westside Gunn once again transforms a heritage performance sneaker into something that feels like art.
First revealed during Paris Fashion Week, the sneaker became one of the most talked about Saucony collaborations of the year. Its use of colour, texture and pattern perfectly reflects the creative direction that became synonymous with GXFR and Westside Gunn.
The Grid Jazz 9 Becomes a Canvas for Creative Storytelling
The “Awesome Gods” colourway embraces maximalism from every angle. Multiple animal-inspired textures collide across the upper, including cow, zebra and cheetah patterns, deer-inspired details and vibrant faux-fur accents sitting alongside one another in these sneakers.
The upper brings together cow prints across the toe bumper and side panels, leopard-inspired details through the structural overlays, and zebra stripping around the toe, heel and tongue branding. A deer-inspired pattern also enters the mix, adding an extra layer to the already deliberately chaotic composition. Each animal reference is separated across different sections of the upper.
Deep burgundy and wine tones form the foundation of the design before bursts of bright pink, electric blue and earthy neutrals inject some contrast throughout the pair.
The material story becomes even more expressive through the use of hairy, fur-like panels, including prominent sections of pink-tinted fur that contrast against the black-and-white zebra and brown cow and leopard patterns. Horse-hair-style textures can also be found on the more structured panels.
Perhaps the most recognisable feature is the replacement of Saucony’s traditional side logo with oversized embroidered scorpion patches, directly referencing Westside Gunn’s own creative universe. The collaboration demonstrates Westside Gunn’s increasingly recognisable design language.
Revisiting One of Saucony’s Most Underrated Silhouettes
While recent collaborations have often centred around models such as the ProGrid Triumph 4 and ProGrid Omni 9, the return of the Grid Jazz 9 feels significant. This silhouette was originally developed as a performance running silhouette, the model has steadily become of Saucony Originals’ strongest lifestyle offerings thanks to its combination of its heritage and versatility.
The sneaker keeps the DNA that made it a favourite, including Saucony’s signature GRID cushioning system, lightweight EVA construction and breathable layered upper. That performance foundation continues to provide comfort decades afthe silhouette first appeared, while its streamlined proportions have helped it transition into a streetwear staple.
Release Information
The GXFR X Saucony Grid Jazz 9 “Awesome Gods” is expected to release on 28 August 2026, following its debut at Paris Fashion Week earlier this summer. The collaboration will launch through selected Saucony retailers and GXFR release channels.
