Diadora and Incorp[Her]ated have partnered for a second time on a sneaker designed by New York-bsed teens. Working off of Diadora’s N9002 model, the shoe was designed by Lucero Alvarez, Bianca Coller, Charles Johnson, Karina Quiridumbay, all of whom range from 14 to 16 years of age.
The latest project is part of Foot Locker and Incorp[HER]ated’s Studio Next program, which is designed to promote inclusivity and awareness of opportunities in the sneaker industry through hands-on activities and conversation.
Dubbed “Walk With,” the students highlighted the importance of the outdoors as a way to maintain mental health. According to press, “The shoe’s earth tone colorway represents soil, water, and grass – paying homage to New York’s outdoor spaces.”
Additionally, the team chose suede as the main material as part of a goal for the shoe to have a comforting feel. The embroidered sprout on the heel is a reminder that each step is an opportunity to grow. The shoe was designed during Incorp[HER]ated and Foot Locker’s three-week Studio Next program, hosted at Fashion Institute of Technology.
“We want to help teens understand that it’s okay to talk about your emotions and that there are tools out there to help you understand them and navigate them so that they’ll be even better at it in the future,” said teen designer Quiridumbay.
“Our whole team was beyond impressed with what our students put together; they put so much effort into thinking through all the details of their design and bringing intention into every decision,” said Incorp[HER]ated co-founder Khiana Lowe.
Priced at $130, the “Walk With” Diadora N9002 will be available in men’s sizes on December 17, 2022 at 10:00 AM EST at champssports.com and the Champs Sports Store in Time Square.
