Unveiling their highly anticipated collaboration, featuring hybrid sneakers that pay homage to DC Shoes' OG skate styles and Needles' renowned craftsmanship.
Media Notes
- DC x Needles is available for purchase through select retailers and DCShoes.com across the globe on August 26th.
- See the written Q+A w/ Needles below.
- View + select DC Shoes x Needles Lifestyle Imagery
- View + select DC Shoes x Needles Product Imagery
DC Shoes and famed Japanese brand Needles join forces for an eagerly awaited collaboration, metamorphosizing a one-of-a-kind blend of skate and style. The exclusive DC x Needles collection delivers a new pair of hybrid sneakers that reference DC Shoes’ OG skate styles and Needles' iconic apparel styles.
Needles approached the DC team to collaborate on a collection that captures the essence of both brands. The result is an artfully crafted capsule that pays homage to DC's skate roots while effortlessly integrating the signature flair and attention to detail synonymous with Needles' signature apparel.
The collection debuts a never-before-seen hybrid footwear mash-up featuring the SPECTRE upper on the CLOCKER 2 outsole. The custom deco stitch pattern applied across all panels highlights the attention to detail and craftsmanship both brands are known for. The Needles Papillon logo is embroidered on the heel, and a TPR strap adds an extra heritage touch to this first-time release.
The capsule is complimented by a ripstop jacket and Needles' iconic track pants, offering skaters a seamless blend of style and performance. Lastly, a limited edition custom skate deck will be exclusively available through Needles' distribution channels.
NEEDLES Q&A
What is the meaning and reason for collaborating with DC?
I have always been interested in skateboard culture. It was an offer from a DC brand that has been active in the scene for a long time, so I wanted to make things together and challenge new creations in the sense of approaching skate culture more deeply.
Why did you choose SPECTRE (FOOTWEAR) for this collaboration?
After seeing the models so far, I thought the Spectre would be the most interesting for the NEEDLES collaboration. The image of a classic skate sneaker that is a little bulky and the back loop are impressive, and various ideas have come to my mind.
The concept behind the collaboration collection?
We didn't have a specific concept, but we created a design that brings out each other's strengths and individuality. We mashed up the logo designs, known as icons of both, and assembled the NEEDLES purple as an accent color. The items were selected with skateboarding in mind.
The DC x Needles collection is available for purchase through select retailers and DCShoes.com across the globe on August 26th.
About Needles
Established in 1995, designed by NEPENTHES CEO Keizo Shimizu. NEEDLES launched as a brand to project Shimizu's vision tracing back over 30 years of experience in visiting and introducing products from around the world. In 2010, a new label - REBUILD by NEEDLES – held the concept of clothes once mass-produced and left without purpose, then rebuilt (reconstructed), was added within the collection. @needles_tokyo_official @nepenthes.official
About DC Shoes
Since 1994, DC Shoes has been committed to progression—from game-changing skate shoe designs to supporting the most groundbreaking skateboarders, snowboarders, and artists in the world. DC helped shape modern collaboration culture by pioneering partnerships with the likes of Supreme, FTP, Shepard Fairey, Buscemi, Doublet, and Carrots. In 2023, DC continues to push the envelope with more exciting collaborations. dcshoes.com @dcshoes @dc_womens