K-Swiss and McLaren Racing are launching their second collaboration of the year, as Formula 1 driver Lando Norris stars in the campaign.
Both the K-Swiss Si-18 Premier and Aero-Active sneakers take on a white, red, black and grey color scheme with branding for the McLaren’s most successful F1 car in its history. The former, a tennis sneaker that made its debut in 1989, features a mix of suede leather and mesh and MP4/4 marks on the tongue and near the lateral collar calling out one of the most successful cars in the history of the sport. The car won 15 of the 16 races it was driven in for the 1988 season and enjoyed the highest winning percentage for a season until 2023. Having led for 97.3 percent of the laps, the MP4/4 still holds the record for percentage of laps led in a season.
The Aero-Active is a model made specifically for the McLaren Racing team through an engineered mesh upper with seam-free construction, sculpted EVA foam cushioning and an anti-slip outsole. First appearing in white-and-orange and black-and-orange colorways earlier this year, the shoe now takes on the new scheme to match that of the MP4/4. Branding for the car is limited only to the tongue.
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K-Swiss and McLaren announced the formation of their new partnership in 2022. The multi-year deal came after a massive spike in interest for the sport and is the first of its kind for both parties. For their first footwear launch, the partners launched the Tubes silhouette a year ago in May. 2024 will later see a third collection for the year launch.
The McLaren x K-Swiss Si-18 Premier and Aero-Active will release Friday, May 10, through the two brands’ websites, as well as select third-party retailers. Pricing for the Si-18 Premier is set at $140 and the Aero-Active $120.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
