Spurred by a mutual interest in Egyptian archeology, ritual and symbol the Concepts x Nike Kyrie 7 “Horus” is the latest in our long-standing collaboration with Kyrie Irving and his sister, Asia.
Our relationship with NBA star Kyrie Irving was built from a shared fondness for skateboard culture. Initially, that allowed us to marry our famous Lobster theme with his Nike signature footwear line. Since, our ongoing Concepts’ collaboration has evolved through work on the Kyrie 5, 6 and, now, 7, and advanced an ethos spurred by a mutual interest in Egyptian archeology, ritual and symbol.
To complement the footwear, the “Feather of Maat” Collection allows us to take our story further; it’s a natural starting point for a new beginning for our in-house line.
Made in the USA, the color palates and graphics of the “Feather of Maat” collection pull in rich turquoises and teals, mirroring Egyptian Faience, and contrast with a range of orange tones to convey the desert sands fading into the sky before nightfall. Symbols like the Ankh and Lotus flower — each reflecting the cycle of life — appear on crewnecks, hoodies, sweatpants, socks and T-shirts.
“With this collection, we really bring the story full circle. With graphics including elements like the ‘Winged Sun’ carry not just ideas about flight and basketball, but also ritual and belief,” says Deon Point, Concepts’ Creative Director.
Each of the new garments shares our studied approach to fit and fabrication. The Concepts Icon hoodie has a subtle drop shoulder in ode to ‘90s skate style, and pairs with classic fit sweatpants. Both are built of 19.5oz cotton and garment washed to get the Concepts’ exclusive colors. The new T-shirts are made with a 10.5oz cotton body and contemporary relaxed fit. Nylon shorts, complete with a mesh liner, add versatility to any wardrobe. The inclusion of custom silver hardware commemorates our 25th anniversary.
“This collection represents an evolution of the Concepts’ brand. The Ankh Crewneck is a piece we’re really proud of — there are over 100,000 stitches in the embroidery — and its evidence of how we’ll continue to explore fabrication as we grow,” says Point.
Dedication to quality also comes through in a suite of “Feather of Maat” ceramics made in collaboration with New York-based Demetria Chappo. The hand-sculpted pieces carry icons from the Concepts x Nike Kyrie 7 Horus. Each one creates an organic synergy between the collection’s underlying ethos and supporting daily spiritual practice.
A trio of New Era 5950 fitted caps produced with our friend Set Free Richardson’s COMPOUND completes the collection. Each hat features a bold numerical “7” on the front, as well as symbols from the KYRIE 7 Horus embroidered on side panels. The graphic integration symbolizes spirituality, intuition, exploration, freethinking, and creativity — characteristics that drive Set Free’s multi-dimensional art practice and our approach to work with Kyrie.
The mysteries of ancient Egypt are a source of endless fascination for Kyrie. Partnering with Nike, the Kyrie 7 "Horus" is inspired by glazed ceramics from ancient Egypt. Blue hues throughout the multidimensional upper draw from the colors of the artifacts, and Egyptian symbols are worked into the forefoot bands, heel, and Swoosh designs. The sneakers come in specially-designed Concepts box and are available in Men’s U.S. Sizes 7-12. Retail price is 699AED.
The “Feather of Maat” collection releases Friday, May 7 at 11AM GMT+4 in-store at Concepts City Walk & online at www.cncpts.ae
