The final drop of Kendrick Lamar‘s collaboration with Reebok Classic in 2016 has arrived and we get an exclusive view of the sneaker. Reebok Classic has slowly (but surely) been making it’s presence evident in the sneaker scene with earlier Kendrick collaborations and then re-issues like the Furylite and Instapump Fury. And they have managed to grab enough attention with each subsequent drop I would think.

For this edition Kendrick worked on the Leather Lux Classic, that has an all premium leather upper in Olive Green (the brand calls it Olive Night) and a gum outsole. If you don’t already know, Red and Blue signifies the Bloods and the Crips which are clashing gangs in Compton. And there is a saying in Compton that when Blue and Red mix, you get the colour Green. Which is what Kendrick is calling for through this (and his earlier) pair of sneakers. It is a call for unity and neutrality.

Here is a quick unboxing video of the sneaker:

I was interviewed by Little Black Book and Reebok India before the sneakers dropped, about what I made of them. Here is a quick snippet.

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The minimal sneaker has embossed accents on the heel which have the text Red and Blue on either pair which signifies the divide between the gangs. The Reebok Classic Starcrest logo has been embossed on the tongue, retaining the overall minimal theme of this pair. The only place where the colors pop out, is in the in-soles of the sneakers which are Red and Blue respectively and have Kendrick’s TDE (Top Dawg Entertainment) logo printed along with his signature. The gum theme follows through on the sock liner, in leather. The insides of the sneaker, except the insole, is leather as well. That is pretty much all there is to say, the sneaker being minimal. I like the fact that they did not go over the top and kept all the detailing subtle. Oh yes, the flat laces have a crisp wax finish to them which is my first. The ride and comfort on them is what you would expect from a retro classic sneaker. It does the job, being a lifestyle shoe. This collaboration is yet another reminder of how Kendrick stays true to his roots in Compton and continues to push for unity and is using his brand to further the cause.

The sizing on these kicks run true, you don’t need to size up unless you have broad feet. The fit is pretty snug so go up half a size if you must and you have the option.

The sneakers drop globally today, the 25th of November 2016, across select Reebok Classic retail outlets and online.

Outfit Deets:
Coach Jacket – 5THEWAY Vietnam
Snapback – New Era

Shot by Vishal Dey for Bowties and Bones

And for those that don’t know who Kendrick Lamar is, maybe this track will help you fall in love. Because you shouldn’t be buying a sneaker without knowing the story (or the man) behind it.

Shout out to the folks at Reebok India for sending through these kicks to me. I appreciate the love, as much as I do these sneakers.