Study De Stijl in the Graphpaper x Mizuno Wave Rider β
are continuing to roll out collaborative efforts using their latest β, aka Wave Rider Beta, this time with fellow Japanese brand Graphpaper. While the union is made possible thanks to neighbouring entities, the inspiration for this edition is truly global.
Before getting into that, here’s a quick breakdown of the new Wave Rider β. Mizuno have duly added it to the Wave Rider series, but it’s also the first of its kind in the brand’s Sportstyle category. If the sole unit looks familiar, it’s because it comes via the Wave Rider 26, the current top-of-the-line offering in the running line. The β’s upper also has plenty to identify as it grabs cues from 2000s archive Wave Riders – namely versions 8 to 11 – which will keep running shoe nerds occupied.
As for Graphpaper, the niche Japanese label has always maintained IYKYK vibes, especially when it comes to their collaborations. The β is their third effort with Mizuno and carries on a spiritual tradition of their studied approach of paying tribute to design icons.
The inspiration becomes clear when observing the colourful strips added as accents to the Graphpaper x Wave Rider β. Hits of yellow, red and blue – essential colours of De Stijl aesthetics pioneered in the 1920s – appear among the greyed-out upper of the β. For further minimalism, the ‘hotmelt’ overlays usually found on the mesh underlays are eschewed here, resulting in a clean look. Like Graphpaper’s previous work with Mizuno, they opt to stay out of the limelight and simply brand their contribution on the insoles.
Graphpaper x Mizuno collaborations have so far rewarded those who go on the chase for them. The most dedicated fans will already have picked up the Wave Rider β in Japan, but a second chance can be had on May 27 when the colab arrives at select Mizuno stockists globally. Don’t miss out!