We’re used to seeing McLaren tear it up on the track, but it’s generally not the running track. As unlikely as it might be, McLaren has linked with Athletic Propulsion Labs (ALP) in a collaboration of limited edition sneaker colourways called the HySpeed collection.
As you’d expect from anything that McLaren is involved in, the slick kicks are aerodynamically shaped and look great as a versatile all-round running trainer. They’re also packed with more than a couple of technical elements designed to make you run faster, as well as offering no less than five different colourways that are White/McLaren Orange, White/Black/Ombre, Rose Dust/Creme, Energy/Metallic Silver and McLaren Orange.
Where ALP comes to the fore is in the design of the midsole and upper, both of which have been optimised for speed without sacrificing comfort. The signature midsole features a 3-piece segmented construction of APL FutureFoam pods in the front and back, which are connected by a full-length carbon fibre bridge for maximum energy economy with each stride.
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The sock-like upper is set to be extremely comfortable thanks to its non-stretch ALP TechLoom material, reinforced in high-stress areas for durability and comfort during your workout. If that wasn’t enough, the heel also boasts a trio of mesh pods that essentially act as tiny pillows for your Achilles, and were directly inspired by McLaren Senna seats.
“APL has developed new technologies specifically for this shoe – inspired by our ground-breaking work using lightweight materials – which also maximises the wearer’s comfort and experience. Like stepping into a McLaren, it is all about optimising performance, agility and speed,” explained the Acting Design Director, McLaren Automotive, Goran Ozbolt.
The McLaren x ALP HySpeed sneaker collaboration is currently available from the ALP site, with an RRP of $747. They aren’t exactly affordable, but they’re certainly more accessible than anything else with a McLaren badge on it.
