(2 of) 10 Ronnie Fieg Designs That Shifted Sneaker Culture

Before an influencer, brand, etc., commands a level of cache based on their name alone, it’s their narrative that consumers align with.

The statement is apropos when discussing cultural luminary, designer, and KITH’s founder, Ronnie Fieg.

Born and raised in Queens, NY, Fieg’s upbringing in the Big Apple greatly influences the lens from which he creates. But it’s his understanding that true marketing power lies in directing the narrative that his present-day success hedges on.

He understood early in his career, as he grew from a 13-year-old stock boy to the main buyer and consigliere at NYC-based shoe retailer David Z.

David Z was known primarily for their boot selection; Fieg saw an opportunity to usher in a new regime via relationships he’d forged with brands and a natural penchant for understanding what determines cool. In parlaying these relationships, David Z, as direct beneficiary, housed early Ronnie Fieg collabs like the Converse Star Player 75 and more famously, his early work with ASICS.

Fieg’s star rose with each new collaboration, and naturally, how he envisioned his career began to change after he and David Z began to have creative differences; the idea of stepping out on his own grew more appealing.

Soon he, along with Atrium owner Sam Ben-Avraham decided to embark on a business partnership, and with that KITH was born.

Fieg’s profile has only risen since he opened the retail space in 2011. Since the, KITH has been the central hub for his increasingly large portfolio of collaborative projects with brands like ASICS, adidas, New Balance, and most recently Nike.

We revisit 2 of the 10 sneakers designed by Fieg that shifted sneaker culture.

KITH x adidas ACE 16+ Purecontrol Ultra Boost

Link: KITH x adidas ACE 16+ Purecontrol Ultra Boost

KITH-sponsored soccer clubs, the KITH Cobras (located in New York City) and the KITH Flamingos (located in Miami), inspired the early 2017 collaborative adidas Soccer Collection.

Featuring six new KITH-branded models, the highlight is this vibrant edition of the ACE 16+ Purecontrol Ultra Boost, constructed in a vibrant Primeknit colorway inspired by the Flamingos' home base.

Most sneakers in the collection deviate from their typical designs; however, this soccer model maintains its original DNA, with the breathable knit construction. Hits of premium suede appear on the tongue and heel tabs. Full-length Boost cushioning completes the look.

KITH x adidas Consortium Ultra Boost Mid "Aspen"

Link: KITH x adidas Consortium Ultra Boost Mid "Aspen"

After a stellar run of collaborative efforts, Ronnie Fieg concluded 2016 with a bang; and by bang, we mean the KITH x adidas Consortium Ultra Boost Mid "Aspen."

It introduced the mid-top version of the Ultra Boost silhouette with an altered Primeknit construction. The upper is the most dense we've seen on the model as the wool-blend fabric ensures warmth. The normal cage overlay is noticeably missing in action; instead taped panels featuring Three Stripes branding blends seamlessly into the multi-color design.

Fieg and adidas also made security a priority when designing this sneaker. That includes the sock-like ankle and additional padding, which work in conjuncture to keep the wearer's foot secure. The clean white heel cage matches the Boost midsole and pull tab on the heel to round out the release.