Hybrid designs, historical nods, and bold reinventions, this spring is bursting with fashion and sneaker collaborations. From Dr. Martens to Adidas, via Salomon and Asics, these brands are teaming up with creative labels to craft pairs that tell a story far beyond fleeting trends. Here’s a closer look at five collaborations set to define the season.
Dr. Martens x Palace is a tribute to the 1980’s
This season, Palace is everywhere. The London-based label teams up with Italian brand C.P. Company for a capsule collection with military influences, inspired by classic menswear staples. At the same time, it’s reimagining another icon: the legendary Dr. Martens 1461. Available in three color ways: black, burgundy, and camouflage print, the pair stands out with a detail as unexpected as it is symbolic: a beer cap transformed into a pull tab. It’s a nod to the punks of the 1980s, who customized their Docs with Grolsch bottle caps. A collaboration rooted both in street culture… and in collective memory.
It is now available on the Dr. Marten’s website.
Bad Bunny x Adidas Ballerina: masculine ballet core
The “Ballerina” continues its rise. After two relatively understated versions, Bad Bunny’s signature sneaker returns in a vibrant shade dubbed “Bold Gold.” Inspired by dance shoes, it channels the ballet core aesthetic while being fronted by a masculine icon: a cultural twist that echoes the rapper’s Puerto Rican roots, where dance and music are part of daily life. With a quick-lacing system, you’re dance floor-ready in no time. Its sole, borrowed from Taekwondo shoes, offers comfort and agility. A bold, hybrid silhouette that suggests the Onitsuka Tigers worn by Uma Thurman in Kill Bill. Anything but a misstep.
Story mfg. x Asics: a collab that has us going green
A successful first collaboration for British ethical label Story mfg., which brings its conscious touch to the Asics Gel-Venture 6. Released in two color ways: lavender and brown. This gingham-patterned sneaker pays tribute to outdoor activities like walking and hiking. The accompanying campaign reflects the community-driven, compassionate ethos of founders Saeed and Katy Al-Rubeyi, spotlighting individuals rarely represented in mainstream fashion advertising. A bold statement that seems to be paying off: the pair is already sold out on Story mfg.’s website, ahead of its global release on April 18 via selected retail partners.
MM6 Maison Margiela and Salomon continue their hybrid exploration
Following the success of their previous collaborations, MM6 Maison Margiela and Salomon are back with a new capsule collection once again rooted in the spirit of outdoor exploration. The iconic XT-4 trail shoe returns in two color ways: one in neutral tones for everyday wear, and another bolder version with a punchy color combo. The standout feature of this hybrid sneaker? Its reinterpretation as a mule, combining groundbreaking design with comfort.
With Spectur 2, the brands take a minimalist approach, focusing solely on the material and color palette. This well-rounded collaboration also includes a line of running apparel, designed for both die-hard Salomon fans and fashion-forward performance seekers. The collection drops on April 17 on the MM6 Maison Margiela and Salomon websites.
Zomer in technicolor at Karhu
Finnish brand Karhu teams up with rising label Zomer, led by Imruh Asha and Danial Aitouganov, finalists of the LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers. Together, they reimagine the Mestari Kesä in a vibrant and unexpected palette, combining shades like red and fuchsia, as well as brown and green. A third version, in matte silver, taps into the broader trend of eye-catching footwear. The vintage-inspired aesthetic nods to bowling shoes, playfully reworked with a two-tone twist that perfectly captures the meeting of the two brands.
The campaign, shot by Dan Tobin Smith, features human mandalas. A striking blend of visual art and performance.
Available from April 10 on Karhu’s website.
