Adidas and renowned designer Yohji Yamamoto
First time that Y-3 hits the run performance line, with four custom models
Available now for $330-$400
Adidas just teamed up with designer Yohji Yamamoto to highlight the performance running line, and damn– some of these may be the best versions yet of the shoe.
The footwear brings the Japanese designer’s avant garde spirit to running, featuring distinct takes on the classic three stripes look, with Y-3 details strategically placed on each model.
This spring drop is part of the Y-3 staggered capsule collection and features four unique silhouettes: the Y-3 Boston 11, Y-3 Takumi Sen 9, Y-3 Ultraboost Light, and the Y-3 Runner 4D FWD.
If you are looking to pick one up, you will pay the price for owning a piece from a master tailor and renowned designer– the most affordable model is the Ultraboost Light at $330, while the Takumi Sen 9 (one of our favorite running shoes of the year) is over double the price of the standard version at $400.
Check out all the Y-3 offerings in the run performance line.
FOR SPEED
One of our favorite shoes of 2023 for its versatility and speed on the run, the Takumi Sen 9 gets murdered out with a signature triple black base. The lateral side of the left shoe features Yohji Yamamoto’s signature, while the lateral side of the right shoe gets a stitched-in Y-3 marking. A paint-style three stripes branding marks the side of the right shoe as well.
FOR EVERYDAY USE
Like the Takumi Sen, the Boston 11 gets the triple-black midsole/outsole treatment and Yamamoto signature on the lateral side of the left shoe. A woven Adidas x Y-3 label extends from the back of the shoe on the heel counter. The Boston 11 is a daily trainer meant to chew up miles, featuring Lightstrike midsole and Energyrods. Spit them out in style.
FOR LIFESTYLE
The pricing of the Y-3 models doesn’t totally make sense. The standard Ultraboost Light is typically one of the pricier models at $190, while the Y-3 version is “just” $140 more. While this isn’t our favorite running shoe from Adidas, it is a very nice lifestyle review with a great upper and big stack of Boost Light midsole material. Painted three stripes and Yamamoto’s signature finish out the look of this shoe.
FOR THE FUTURE
Designed to keep you running forward, 3D-printed lattice midsole compresses with each step in an effort to propel you into the next step. Is this a running shoe? Maybe for a mile or two, but the whole 3D printing thing isn’t quite there just yet. However, it is a really comfortable walking shoe and the Primeknit upper hugs the foot with a nice lockdown. Also, it’s kind of just a cool conversation piece.
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Robbe is the senior editor of Believe in the Run. He loves going on weird routes through Baltimore, finding trash on the ground, and running with the Faster Bastards. At home in the city, but country at heart. Loves his two boys more than anything. Has the weakest ankles in the game.
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