Francesca Taylor introduces us to a sneaker oxymoron in the form of the wonderful new adidas by Rick Owens collaboration sneakers.

Rick Owens offers us another fashion oxymoron with the new adidas by Rick Owens trainers, if you can call this Rick Owens adidas runner a trainer that is. The Los Angeles / Paris designer takes us in instantly. These are perhaps the most innovative and minimalistic of sneakers. For his SS14 collaboration with adidas, Owens combines his hard won, distinguished vision with a forward-thinking fitness incentive.

Owens has taken a step away from his usual basketball style hi-top, instead opting for a bold low-top design. The silhouette of these leather and nylon crafted sneakers is refreshingly contemporary. Particularly innovative is the curved, block-constructed heel and broad leather ankle collar which act as an intelligent reminder of Owens’ architectural inspirations.

These sneakers are progressive, not only aesthetically, but technologically. They are produced in collaboration with adidas and take inspiration from their trainer brand’s long and successful history in sports-wear know-how. And yet the subtle perforated three–stripe detail is the only visual hint of adidas branding.

A fitness fanatic himself, Owens has been inspired by his own need for fitness-driven style and these sneakers are made for anyone with an obligation to high fashion and high powered fitness. As always, Owens has managed to convey a restrained extravagance with this futuristic footwear. Although the overall aesthetic of these sneakers breathes an avant-garde, Rick Owens vibe, they are like nothing we’ve seen before.

For more information on adidas by rick owens click here. Available in 6 different understated colour combinations.