In a landscape often dominated by loud men-led collaborations, Mizuno Sportstyle’s partnership with SLY stands out. Marking Mizuno’s first female-led collaboration, the project reinterprets the brand’s iconic Wave Rider 10 through a distinctive feminine lens, a collaboration where form is preferred over flashiness.
SLY: From Tokyo to Global Influence
Founded in 2001 as a sister brand to MOUSSY, SLY built a reputation as one of Japan’s most progressive womenswear labels, the brand follows a clear youthful spirit, SLY is a brand that is self-aware, irreverent and grounded. The brand is very in touch with the rhythms of Japanese street culture. SLY has shaped a movement amongst women who see fashion as a form of identity rather than a way to consume. They value the same as Mizuno and both brands know that design is part of the storytelling.
The Collaboration: Rework of a Classic
To bring this collaboration to life, SLY has reimagined the Wave Rider 10 with multiple subtle, yet impactful changes. Traditional laces are replaced with a quick-lace system, secured by a cord buckle mechanism, while metal hardware substitutes the standard eyelets, adding durability and industrial vibes. The upper is reimagined with synthetic leather and open mesh alongside reflective accents and a custom dual branding on the heel. The reinterpretation still keeps the essence and style of the Wave Rider 10 tho.
A Bridge Between Japanese Design and Culture
This partnership stands as a testimony to the strength of Japanese design culture, a place where innovation, craftmanship, and fashion can coexist. For Mizuno’s Sportstyle division it is yet another entry into the lifestyle and fashion scene. For SLY it is a way to extend its creativity into the sneakerworld.
