​In search of a new pair of trainers with a difference? Skechers has collaborated with kansaïyamamoto to create four new styles of fashion sneakers that guarantee comfort and bold design. Here’s everything you need to know and how to get your hands on a pair…

A celebration of high fashion and avant-garde imagery arrives at Skechers, the comfort technology company, in an exciting new footwear collaboration inspired by the late iconic Japanese designer Kansai Yamamoto. The limited-edition Skechers x kansaïyamamoto collection of four fashion sneakers for men and women embrace Kansai’s aesthetic and will launch on the one-year anniversary of his passing, July 21, in Japan, North America and Europe.

“Kansai was a legend not only in fashion circles throughout his entire career, but as an inspiration to so many artists that followed. Skechers was incredibly fortunate for the chance to work on this collaboration influenced by the master before he passed away,” said Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers.

“Kansai’s creative vision follows that progression with the iconic design fused with our Skechers Max Cushioning Premier and D’Lites styles that offer incredible comfort.”

The launch spans a range of Max Cushioning Premier fashion sneakers. The men’s KY Kabuki Paint and women’s KY Nadeshiko styles feature iconic kansaïyamamoto designs inspired by traditional kabuki theater and beauty. The men’s KY Sol and women’s KY Luna feature ombre colour designs that convey the notion of sun and moon.

Classic Skechers D’Lites fashion sneakers (Men’s KY Carnival and Women’s KY Hanabi) follow on August 21, with a vivid multi-coloured premium leather upper in celebratory festival hues, plus kansaïyamamoto logo

Kansai Yamamoto broke boundaries in the fashion world with his avant-garde designs that adorned musicians in the 1970s. He was the first Japanese designer to present a fashion show in London, and later participated in numerous Tokyo, New York and Paris fashion week events.

More recently, he extended the reach of his style collaborating with other designers, fashion houses and global brands. His aesthetic remains a favourite among celebrities. Kansai Yamamoto passed away in July 2020, but his vision lives on through his timeless designs and namesake brand.

A sneak peak at the collection

KY Luna
KY Luna

£159, skechers.co.uk

Kabuki Paint
Kabuki Paint

£159, skechers.co.uk

Ky Nadeshiko
KY Nadeshiko

£159, skechers.co.uk

KY Sol
KY Sol

£159, skechers.co.uk

Styles in the Skechers x kansaïyamamoto collection will be available at select Skechers flagship stores the United Kingdom, as well as online at skechers.co.uk