In 2018, Japanese fashion label NEEDLES helped revive Reebok’s Beatnik slide, transforming it into a beloved at-home style staple. The Beatnik slide, originally introduced as a hiking sandal for the 1993-94 fall/winter season, has become a cult classic and a staple in Reebok's lineup. For the Spring/Summer 2024 Collection, NEEDLES presents the Beatnik slide in two new subtle colorways: Canvas and Black. This release continues the successful partnership between Reebok and NEEDLES, following their recent collaboration on the Beatnik Moc in January 2023.
Each NEEDLES x Reebok Beatnik Slide features a soft suede upper, complete with the embroidered NEEDLES butterfly logo, and sits atop the signature shark-tooth rubber outsole. The campaign imagery for this collaboration captures the essence of the NEEDLES SS24 collection, evoking an “American West Coast” vibe that complements the Beatnik slide's relaxed aesthetic. In a nod to minimalist design, NEEDLES founder Keizo Shimizu decided to strip away one of the model’s traditional elements, the heel strap, giving the slide a more relaxed and versatile finish.
"By removing the heel straps from the popular slide, we’ve given it a more relaxed finish," explained Shimizu. "The result is a piece of footwear that not only blends into the NEEDLES collection but also seamlessly fits into both urban and natural environments."
The NEEDLES x Reebok Beatnik Slide Pack will release on May 25, 2024, through Reebok, NEEDLES, and select retailers online and in-store. Coming in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $120. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via Reebok
NEEDLES x Reebok Beatnik Slide Canvas
NEEDLES x Reebok Beatnik Slide Core Black
