EARLS COLLECTION, the Sydney-based clothing label founded by former pro rugby player Lewi “Sharky” Brown, is launching its first-ever sneaker collaboration. Teaming up with ASICS, the brand presents the GT-2160 “Ngāwari.”
Ngāwari, which translates to “tread softly,” pays homage to Brown’s Māori heritage. The shoe features earthy brown suede overlays and a natural-colored woven mesh upper inspired by harakeke (New Zealand hemp), a fiber that Māori traditionally used to weave into kete (baskets) and whāriki (mats). Pops of green are inspired by pounamu, a durable stone found in southern New Zealand that is valued for carving. Additionally, the insoles feature a print inspired by pāua, large sea snails that have served as a food source for Māori for generations.
Brown dedicates this collaboration to his father, who like his father before him, took his own life after a long battle with mental illness. The name EARLS COLLECTION actually comes from the middle name Earl that connects all three generations.
The EARLS x ASICS GT-2160 “Ngāwari” will launch via raffle on the EARLS website, open from Sunday, February 11th until Wednesday, February 13th. A global release will follow on February 23rd at select retailers: HBX, Nice Kicks, Bodega, SSENSE, Kith, and Packer. Grab a look below.
EARLS x ASICS GT-2160 “Ngāwari”
Release Date: February 14, 2024 (EARLS)
Release Date: February 23, 2024 (Global)
Price: $150 USD
