Converse x A-COLD-WALL*: Asymmetry and material exploration

After debuting on the catwalk during the presentation of SS20 A-COLD-WALL*, the coveted collection – consisting of two unique collaborations of Converse footwear – will be available worldwide for the first time.

Samuel Ross, founder of A-COLD-WALL*, while working on the project with Converse asked, “How does a collaboration convey intention?

The nylon track suit is inspired by Ross’s teenage years playing basketball. “You see several areas of the garment that open up and extrapolate the pattern to allow for greater perspiration. It’s a focus on the development of a modern warm-up track suit with influences from the late 1990s and early 2000s basketball,” says Ross.

The second track suit, in contrast, allows Ross to push an experimental asymmetry. He says, “It offers a purist view of A-COLD-WALL*.

“There is a focus on technical fabrics, such as ripstop nylon, in the clothing we present. This broadens the idea of functionality and exploration that interests us,” says Ross. “In this collection, I also wanted to add organic shades of taupe, browns and interacting slates. That reflects the development of A-COLD-WALL*.

The designs follow the ACW‘s hallmark: Asymmetry, material exploration and subdued coloring. Exploration drives Ross’ practice, and so the shades of the top, stitching and closure of the Chuck Taylor All Star Lugged reflect a shift toward functionality.

This also equates to a modernization of the ERX. The texture of the suede and the embossed elements give the silhouette an avant-garde look. “On the one hand it looks incredibly designed, but on the other hand it feels so human. It picks up the feel of pale greys and slates,” says Ross.

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The Converse x A-COLD-WALL* footwear and apparel collection will be launched at a-cold-wall.com on September 14, and at Converse.com and specific stores on September 17, three days later.