Aaron Hope 
There’s been much discussion on the steadily shrinking list of yet-to-be-Retroed OG Air Jordan colorways as we approach the ‘Obsidian’ XII’s first release in fifteen years, and while they’re not targeted at the same portion of the market, here’s a lifestyle design that also makes you wonder what’s left in sneaker designers’ collective tanks. In a world where new hybrid designs pop up with each passing day, it’s somewhat shocking that only Vans has gotten close to the maximum potential out of the classic European rope-soled style. But as we move through traditional styles like boat shoes, duck boots and wingtips, we’re bound to see more models like this United Arrows x adidas Originals Rod Laver. This model simply applies a veggie fiber weave to its timeless shape, and in remaking itself suggests that almost every mid-’80s-and-earlier model we’ve come to know and love could excel with this same style. Let us know how this Rod Laver espadrille turned out, which other models you might like to see with its distinctive sole style and stick with Sneaker News for updates on the May 2012 release.
