y-3 | Aphrodite

y-3

November 26, 2021

Latest Arrival : Y-3 Kaiwa Trainers

Y-3 Kaiwa trainer brings sport-style to the street.

The Y-3 collection first hit the streets in 2002, with the idea of redefining streetwear. Blurring the line between sports and streetwear by fusing both together. Y-3’s signature style combines the excellence of German-engineered garments with the creativity of Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto who is well known for his avant-garde tailoring featuring Japanese design aesthetics. Resulting in modern pieces of Japanese and German streetwear which have inspired people around the globe, gaining a large following in their almost 20-year existence.

The Y-3 Kaiwa trainer is part of the exclusive Y-3 collection available at Aphrodite, which takes inspiration from the past. Taking designs that were released in the 70s, 80s and the 90s producing a contemporary twist on classic designs. The unique idea of redesigning old silhouettes by taking inspiration from today’s styles and trends has led to a thread of classic designs which all have a uniqueness shaped by the decade when they were crafted.

Y-3 kaiwa trainers have a minimalist design of a running shoe silhouette. The Kaiwa is the first-ever Y-3 shoe to feature pieces directly from the archives of both collaborators. The silhouette was originally designed by Yamamoto and Adidas and now has been updated with a contemporary touch, infused with modern technology. A woven upper offers enhanced comfort with a lightweight EVA midsole that gives extra cushioning to support your feet throughout the day.

A lace closure helps give a secure fit to the trainer, allowing the shoe to be worn as both a sports trainer made for exercise or a fashion trainer crafted to make a bold statement on the street. Stylish detailing of geometric shapes in leather creates a modern and striking exterior. The Y-3 KAIWA shoe is finalised with a suede Y3 logo tab to the heel of the shoe completing the symmetrical look of the updated trainer.

The Y-3 Kaiwa trainer is available at Aphrodite.

October 14, 2021

The Y-3 Runner 4D IOW Arrives in White

Making use of boundary-pushing technology, the Yohji Yamamoto and adidas collaboration delivers yet another innovative offering via the Y-3 Runner 4D IOW. Made with freedom in mind, the design is poised to redefine the running market; comprising two removable neoprene sock inserts that allow for either a low or mid-profile finish, the Runner 4D IOW is a shoe like no other.

Following the release of a black iteration that landed a couple months back, this pure white version promises to turn heads with its complex construction which can be altered at a moment’s notice. Almost like getting two shoes for the price of one, this hybrid design can be worn with or without the neoprene sock liners. Wearing the Y-3 Runner 4D IOW with these in would not only keep your feet feeling fairly toasty but it would also add an extra foundation of comfort to the foot with its supple base while wearing the shoe solo means that you’ll benefit from the breathable mesh fabric situated in the upper.

Underfoot, stability and impact absorption are promoted through precisely coded performance zones. These zones are expressed in the adidas 4D midsole and articulated on the outer with cutout detailing at the forefoot. You’ll also reap the rewards of exceptional traction thanks to the sportswear heavyweight’s Continental™ Rubber outsole.

Sturdy, striking, and on-style, what more could you want from the Y-3 Runner 4D IOW?

Grab yourself a pair when the silhouette launches 15/10/2021 @ 9am at Aphrodite in-store and online.

March 8, 2021

Y-3 Latest Footwear Arrivals

Once upon a time, the fusion of sportswear and high-fashion was unheard of; a complete juxtaposition. Now though, thanks to Y-3’s disruptive agenda and its efforts to set the pace between those two realms, the fierce combination is considered normal. It’s the reason why the term athleisure was coined and how streetwear even exists as the huge global market it is today.

The boundary-pushing Yohji Yamamoto and adidas collaboration centres on design and craftmanship while embedding elements of Japanese culture deep into the roots of its sporty, street-approved lineup. For years Y-3’s ‘Sprint’ and ‘Boxing’ silhouettes have dominated the footwear scene with their understated but slick profiles and the iconic Y-3 duo return for the SS21 season with a spalsh of colour underfoot. For the lowdown on the latest releases, keep reading…

Y-3 Sprint Trainers

The Y-3 Sprint is a fully-fledged classic. Since the brand’s inception in 2002, this silhouette has circulated across the globe to mass appeal. Renowned for its streamline aesthetic and supple leather structure, the shoe is reimagined this season in a bright shade of ‘core white’, featuring grey 3-Stripes, co-branding and sweet swatches of pastel pink and yellow underfoot – reminiscent of rhubarb and custard candies.

Y-3 Boxing Trainers

Drawing from the low, flat-to-the-surface silhouette of a standard boxing boot, Y-3’s aptly named ‘Boxing’ trainer contends with a mixture of materials, including leather in the upper, suede at the tongue and canvas in its lining. Based in glossy black with tonal, grosgrain 3-Stripes, this iconic sneaker sits on a Poron® performance cushioning sockliner, a shock-absorbing EVA midsole and a sturdy rubber sole. Finished too with pastel illumination underfoot.

Check out the latest Y-3 Sprint trainer and Y-3 Boxing sneaker online now at Aphrodite, while stocks last.

February 19, 2020

Archival Anatomy: Y-3 Take On The adidas Superstar

To celebrate over half a century of the adidas Superstar Y-3 present their own take on the heavy hitting low top sneaker. Dubbed the YOHJI STAR you can take a closer look at exactly what’s on offer below:

Possibly one of the most culturally significant sneakers to come from the depths of the three striped archives, the adidas Superstar has been on nothing short of a footwear focused rampage since its initial introduction in 1969. Adopted by any number of style tribes and one of the first silhouettes to find stardom with our American neighbours across the pond, its icon status is as solidified as they come, having embedded itself in the global sneaker zeitgeist for now over 50 years.

A focal point for countless collections, the Superstar has provided the basis for countless genre spanning collaborations to flourish. From see through to laceless, the sneaker this time finds itself accepted into the world of high-fashion, allowing its basketball-ready proportions to be transformed by the expectantly avant garde design direction of Y-3.

A self proclaimed favourite of non-other than Yohji Yamamoto himself, the brand utilise a selection of meticulous detailing, monochromatic conformity and clever shaping to deliver a fresh interpretation of the heritage style whilst ensuring its historically prominent DNA remains firml intact.

Renamed the YOHJI STAR the sneakers aim to add fresh interpretations to the Superstar’s already impressive back catalogue. Keeping the heel portion largely unchanged, the sneakers find their place against the grain of atypical footwear tropes, widening the forefoot in a premeditated move that serves to enhance the bulky nature of the sneakers debut form. Flanked by the inclusion of premium suede overlays for increased textural depth, the trainers boast branding to both the tongue and heel as well as Yamamoto’s signature inscribed finish.

Keeping the traditional rubber shell toe box and three stripe detailing on-hand for a healthy amount of nostalgic benefits, the STAR slots effortlessly into Y-3’s greyscale ranks, a testament to not only the universally loved appeal of the source material but, a homage to the brand’s fiercely refined thematic styling.

The YOHJI STAR are available online at Aphrodite 00:01, 20/02/20.

August 12, 2019

Y-3 Take Sportswear To The Next Level

Since 2003, when adidas and avant garde designer Yohji Yamamoto put their heads together in the pursuit of more unique ventures, Y-3 has always been an interesting one to watch. Established well before the days when the word Athleisure was even coined, let alone unblinkingly accepted onto some of the biggest runways in the world, the brand not only carved a reputation for challenging the pre-conceived conceptions that surround sportswear silhouettes as a whole, but set the bar when it came to how collaborations can and should be done.

Perhaps one of the most alluring qualities Y-3 possess is their sense of identity. Inspired by the contrast between smart and casual outfitting and fuelled by a growing disinterest with making, ‘fancy clothing’ the brand combines Y3 founder Yohji Yamamoto’s more left-field approach with that of adidas’ performance-driven sensibilities, balancing, twisting and combining iconic elements from both sides into something that feels wholly Y-3.

Uniting the majority of their offering under a monochromatic banner, Y-3’s decision to remove colour from their designs allows more emphasis to be placed upon shape, form and function giving way for a selection of technical nuance and interesting use of fabrics to find their way to the surface.

Take for example this seasons interpretation of the classic track pants. Placing the bold contrasting three stripes to the inside leg for a slight spin on a quintessential trait, the pants are imbued with masterful modern tailoring with a relaxed fit through the thigh, slight taper to the ankles and a cropped length. Finished with inner zip cuffs, four pockets and an elasticated drawstring waist, the track pants give way to a tonal Y-3 logo for a hit of subtle branding.

Track tops have also been given some love with asymmetrical details and subtle alterations aligning the somewhat everyday garment with the other quality bits up for grabs. Featuring a contrasting varsity style applique YOHJI callout to the back, the jacket also comes with adjustable cuffs, a fleece lined interior and two front concealed zip pockets, the track top comes complete with tonal stripes and Y-3 logo to the left side only.

Unsurprisingly some of the main talking points found throughout the collection are the accessories, most notably Y-3’s fresh interpretation of the cross-body bag. Constructed in a sling design, the bags come with the ability to be customised to suit the wearers desired needs with straps and storage compartments easily added or removed.

Staple pieces have also been given a precise update with t-shirts, hoodies and hats boasting an array of enviable qualities which include sleek one piece constructions, juxtaposed monikers and signature Yohji cuts.

Making their welcome return both the Y-3 Ren and Kaiwa can be found amongst the greyscale ranks. With updated colourways applied and notable characteristics preserved the sneakers make use of adidas’ affinity for footwear to ensure their staunch looks are matched with plenty of practical utility. Sat alongside the decisively geometric Y-3 Yuuto, which revives one of the first sneakers ever released by Y-3, and the ultra-contemporary Yohji Courts the brand once again prove they are not to be crossed when it comes to on-foot craftsmanship.

Shop the full Y-3 line-up online or in store now.

July 10, 2019

Y-3 FYW S-97: Yohji Yamamoto Remixes An adidas Icon

Y-3 Transforms The Iconic FYW S-97 Sneaker

After more than 16 years of fruitful partnership, adidas and Yohji Yamamoto are working on forging an even stronger alliance; with the Three Stripes label offering Y-3 exclusive access to the FYW S-97 sneaker.

The revolutionary design first debuted in ’97 during a time when the footwear industry hadn’t really got off the ground yet. Trainer technology was still in its inception stage and sneaker styles were delivered through narrowminded visions. Cue the trailblazing tactics of adidas…

In-house experts at the sportswear label instilled fresh energy into the industry when they launched their ‘Feet You Wear’ technology. The science behind FYW technology, to which the shoe takes its name, was ambitious in every way. Previous designs had led the way for square-shaped soles, while this runner chose to hone in on the natural contours of the foot. Though more rounded trainers like this were virtually unheard of at the time, the masses embraced them full-force. Thus, setting the wheels in motion for boundless interpretations to come.

Now, in today’s age, where luxury and athleisure often collide – as the Y-3 partnership has so often proved, the FYW S-97 trainer is to take a premium turn. More streamlined than the original, Y-3’s FYW S-97 boasts a strictly angled design at the toe. However, its sharper silhouette still imbues referential flair for the past. These retro details unfold in the wavy lines showcased on the midsole and caging system.

Layers of Primeknit can be found across the uppers of both the black and white pairs, something FYW S-97 fans will be used to. Closer up, suede and leather overlays fall in all the usual spots, while a sock-like fit around the ankle provides superlative flexibility.

Perhaps the most distinctive element of this iteration is the Yohji Yamamoto sign off. Etched in white on the black colourway and vice versa, the emblazoned script is truly symbolic of status. A signal from the Japanese designer that these sneakers are wholly Y-3. Finally, dual density Boost™ cushioning propels the foot from the ground upwards. As a result, wearers can expect the smoothest ride ever and unbeatable comfort.

Set to get the streets and the sneaker scene talking, this luxe Y-3 FYW S-97 remix is a game changer. Cop both colourways at Aphrodite in-store or online when the sneakers launch July 18th, 2019.

June 18, 2019

Y-3 AW19 Collection: First Look

The first drop of the Y-3 AW19 Collection Has Arrived! Take a look what is up for grabs below…

After 16 years working in partnership as the driving force behind now world-renowned brand Y-3, adidas and Yohji Yamamoto present the next evolutionary step in their collaborative efforts using their AW19 collection to take a look back into not only the defining historical moments that have shaped both collaborators staunch sensibilities but, the unique intricacies that have fuelled their success.

Focusing in on the ‘70s. ‘80s and ‘90s Y-3 present a collection that for the first time since its inception makes use of archival pieces both from Yamamoto and adidas. Using these select few pieces as a basis to shape an expectantly avant-garde design direction around, AW’19 sees essential adidas garments infused with the designers strong stylistic character and inherently Yamamoto pieces loaded up on generous helpings of three stripe innovation.

Through years spent understanding their counterparts craft and the forward-thinking approach of their dynamic relationship, both adidas and Yamamoto have manged to pave the way when it comes to challenging the preconceived notions surrounding sportwear, crafting line-ups with immense depth, personality and unmatched quality.

Channelling the collection around a multitude of themes including BUILD – whereby the craftsmanship of a garment is paid particular attention to – and SPECTATE – which makes reference to the movement and unity of sports culture – the collection encompasses everything from outerwear to accessories and represents a fresh interpretation on the signature Y-3 aesthetic.

Influenced by the branding found on sports teams, the collection sees an athletically styled YOHJI callout displayed across a varied and expectantly monochromatic line-up which culminates, most notably, with a traditional collegiate varsity jacket. A contrasting feast for the eyes the jacket features embroidered patch branding to the sleeve and chest and comes quilted with primaloft for exceptional levels of insulation. Cut slightly short in the body for added shape the jacket is complete with an array of quintessential detailing including a ribbed collar, cuffs and hem and a plethora of sporty striping.

Re-imagined with streamlined minimalism, this first snippet of the collection also gives way to a number of classic Y-3 footwear silhouettes given new life through subtle alterations. A staple of the Y-3 sneaker line-up the Kaiwa with its towering proportions and premium mix of suede and leather uppers sees a triple black overhaul whilst the Ren is given an alternating colour mix, utilising harsh distinctions to enhance its recognisably modern appearance.

Of course, technical nuance features heavily throughout the duos new body of work, no more so evident in accessories such as the side bag. Boasting a number of compartments and wearing capabilities the bag comes fully customisable allowing the user to detach and re-attach straps and sections as they see fit. Coming in both white and black the bags feature numerous storage options guaranteed to add functional flair to even the most basic of outfits. Headwear is also high on the agenda within the accessory ranks, with a baseball cap complete with aforementioned YOHJI branding alternatively placed to the side found amongst the impressive assembly.

Harboured from years spent working with one another this collection showcases the harmonious understanding and mutual appreciation both adidas and Yamamoto share for one another. Through a deep respect for individual craft and the natural fluidity of ideas Y-3 manage to effortlessly blend the worlds of thematic clothing and utility driven sportswear, forging an unshakeable legacy one collection at a time.

The Y-3 Autumn Winter ’19 collection launches both in store and online at Aphrodite 20/06/19.

January 8, 2019

Y-3 Spring/Summer ’19: First Footwear Drop

After the success of last year’s celebratory 15-year anniversary collection, Y-3 are right back at it for 2019 with a slew of new footwear models.

The key piece from the first drop is the all-new Raito Racer. Japanese for ‘light’, the Raito takes its name seriously, building on a thickly-cushioned wedge of Boost with ultra-light Primeknit uppers for a breathable, supportive fit. Yohji Yamamoto’s typical flair for design detail is on full display here, with topstitched lacing sections that also serve to add extra support and structure to the inner of the shoe, along with an eyecatching ‘mosaic’ outsole and minimal branding for a sleek and thoroughly modern look.

Meanwhile, the popular Harigane sneaker from last season is getting a refreshed look for the new year. Keeping the scuptural, geometric sole unit and sharktooth outsole from the original, the Harigane II is upgraded with monochrome Primeknit uppers and topstitched detailing for a more streamlined look than its predecessor. Keeping with the rest of the season, the finishing touch comes with hand-stitched zigzag detailing to the tongues.

Finally, the imprint resurrects the adidas ZX Flux silhouette for its own version, the ZX Run. Building on the original’s Torsion-equipped sole unit, the ZX Run boasts uppers in a textured mixture of premium leather, suede and nylon. Perforated detailing and a panelled design calls to mind classic Y-3 styles but with contemporary branding and tooling for an all-day comfortable ride.

Find all three styles instore and online at Aphrodite now, and keep an eye on our social media feeds for more Y-3 SS19 news.

August 23, 2018

A Five Star Sequel: Y-3 Kusari II

It’s rare a sequel eclipses the original, but sometimes the formula is just rejigged enough to create a better, unique experience than before. The Godfather 2, The Dark Knit, Toy Story 2, all setting the bar higher just like Y-3’s rapid-fire sequel.

This season of Y-3 has been a rapid-fire display of new styles from Yohji Yamamoto and co, showcasing a juxtaposition of designs from the slimline to the bulbous. Following up the initial Kusari release just 7 months ago, we have the sequel to their ultra modernist design in form of the Kursari II.

One of only a handful of Y-3 models to utilise a full length boost sole unit, the eye-catching lines of shoe truly provide one of the most unique silhouettes in Y-3 history.

With a material mix of rubber, leather, suede, patent leather, neoprene and repurposed shoelaces and stitched elasticated eyelets the shoe is an experience in footwear tailoring. Harnassing an all in one neoprene upper, the shoe follows similar design cues to the recently released Kaiwa in it’s unusually stitched toe box. The eyelets are held in place with a heavily stitched in elasticated rope, adding a contemporary spin intrinsic with the current Y-3 design ethos.

The suede heel rap offers a tonal and textual variation with a supple trim that mixes with a red patent leather heel piece and a leather stitched strap that is vaguely reminiscent to a certain rival’s 90’s runner (rhymes with apache). Re-purposed red laces make up the upper eye stays and heel tab, matching tonally with the stitched tongue branding and heel piece.

The sole is made up of a 3 piece bonded unit, starting with a rubber midsole and sole sandwiching a boost sole unit to maximize comfort over performance.

With the overall theme of luxury permeating through on this Y-3 release, don’t miss out on a premium sequel.

Shop Brand New Y-3 Now

Older Posts