Keen have really taken 2024 by storm, known for their rugged yet stylish outdoor footwear, they’ve teamed up with the esteemed Highsnobiety for an exclusive collaboration that highlights the best of both brands: the Keen Jasper x Highsnobiety. This exclusive release forms part of Highsnobiety’s latest Not In New York (NINY) collection, paying homage to the urban landscapes and lifestyles of the Big Apple. The collaboration naturally blends the city’s dynamic spirit, seamlessly with a hint of uptown sophistication and downtown Lower Manhattan cool.
A Tale of Two Boroughs: Design Inspiration
New York City is often characterised by its contrast between uptown and downtown, and Highsnobiety captures this duality through a clever use of materials and textures, reflecting the distinct vibes of these two iconic areas.
- Uptown Elegance: Crafted in a sleek, glossy black leather this pair symbolises the polished and sophisticated style associated with uptown “Business” Manhattan. It’s the kind of shoe that could easily fit into the refined streets lined with high-end boutiques and historic brownstones. This material choice brings a juxtaposition of urban luxury to Keen’s otherwise rugged and outdoor-oriented aesthetic.
- Downtown Vibes: In contrast, the downtown-inspired version embraces a more playful and creative aesthetic with its fuzzy pink suede upper. This softer, more daring material choice mirrors the eclectic and artistic energy found in neighborhoods like SoHo and the Lower East Side, where street fashion, art galleries, and underground culture thrive. The bold pink is an eye-catching nod to the more experimental, fashion-forward side of the city.
The Unifying Gum Sole
Despite these distinct styles, both versions of the Jasper x Highsnobiety sneaker are unified by a key feature: Keen’s signature gum sole. This classic element not only provides a practical, grippy foundation for walking the busy streets of New York but also serves as a visual link between the contrasting designs. Whether you’re navigating the polished sidewalks of Madison Avenue or the gritty cobblestones of the Meatpacking District, the gum sole offers comfort and durability for any weather.
Highsnobiety Branding: A Statement of Modern Streetwear
The collaboration is unmistakably a product of Highsnobiety’s influence on contemporary street culture. The sneaker features Highsnobiety branding on both the tongue and insole, broadcasting its exclusivity and reinforcing its streetwear credibility. For collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike, these subtle but striking touches make the Keen Jasper x Highsnobiety a statement piece, standing at the intersection of high fashion and everyday footwear.
Not In New York (NINY) Collection
This sneaker release is part of Highsnobiety’s Not In New York collection, a concept that explores the cultural and fashion-driven identity of New York City through the lens of those who might not physically be in the city, but are still influenced by its style and spirit. The Keen Jasper x Highsnobiety sneaker perfectly encapsulates this idea, allowing wearers to carry a piece of New York’s essence with them, no matter where they are.
Function Meets Fashion
The Keen Jasper x Highsnobiety collaboration is a marriage of function and high fashion, drawing inspiration from the duality of New York City’s uptown refinement and downtown edge. With high-quality materials, distinct colourways and practical design, this limited sneaker reflects both the rugged durability that Keen is famous for and the cutting-edge streetwear influence of Highsnobiety. Whether you’re a native New Yorker or simply a fan of something iconic, this sneaker is a a curve ball for those who gravitate to functional footwear.
