The Story Behind the Design of the Yeezy 700
In the world of sneakers, a few silhouettes stand out as true game-changers, and the Yeezy 700 is undeniably one of them. Released in 2017, the Yeezy 700 not only broke new ground in sneaker aesthetics but also redefined what a designer sneaker could be. While many people recognize the shoe’s chunky shape and vibrant colorways, few know the remarkable story behind its design. From Kanye West’s vision to the intricate influences drawn from vintage runners, the Yeezy 700’s creation is a tale of risk-taking, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of originality. Let’s dive deep into the journey that birthed this modern icon.
Origins: Kanye West’s Vision for a New Sneaker Era
The Yeezy 700 was born out of Kanye West’s desire to disrupt the status quo. By 2016, West had already made waves with earlier Yeezy models, but he was unsatisfied with simply following sneaker trends. Instead, he wanted to craft footwear that would provoke conversation and challenge industry norms.
Collaborating with Adidas, West set out to create a sneaker that was both strikingly futuristic and nostalgically retro. He enlisted the help of designer Steven Smith, a legend in the footwear world known for his work on classic sneakers like the New Balance 1500 and Reebok Instapump Fury. Smith’s expertise in blending performance and style would prove essential.
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Kanye’s brief was clear: the shoe had to feel like nothing else on the market, yet evoke a sense of familiarity. The result was a sneaker that harkened back to 1990s “dad shoes,” yet felt unmistakably new.
Design Inspirations: From Dad Shoes to Futuristic Statements
The Yeezy 700’s design is a tapestry of references and inspirations. At its core, the shoe draws heavily from the “dad shoe” trend—chunky, oversized sneakers that were once considered unfashionable. Kanye and Steven Smith saw potential in these overlooked silhouettes, aiming to elevate them into high-fashion territory.
The distinctive multi-layered upper, constructed from suede, leather, and mesh, references classic runners like the Adidas Temper Run and the Nike Air Monarch. The thick, sculpted midsole is reminiscent of orthopedic shoes, yet the execution is far more daring. In fact, when the Yeezy 700 first appeared on Kanye’s feet in early 2017, it was met with confusion and even mockery online.
However, the sneaker’s bold color blocking, especially in the original “Wave Runner” colorway, set it apart from its inspirations. The vibrant pops of teal, orange, and black created a visual language that was at once nostalgic and refreshingly modern.
Development Process: From Concept to Reality
Translating Kanye’s vision into a physical product was no small feat. The Yeezy 700 underwent numerous iterations, with the design team experimenting with materials, shapes, and proportions. Early prototypes featured even bulkier soles and different panel arrangements, but the team eventually settled on a look that balanced wearability with avant-garde appeal.
One of the biggest challenges was achieving the right mix of comfort and stability. The Yeezy 700’s midsole incorporates Adidas’ BOOST cushioning technology, which had already become famous for its use in the Ultra Boost and NMD lines. BOOST consists of thousands of expanded TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) particles, offering superior energy return and shock absorption. This innovation made the chunky sneaker unexpectedly comfortable, helping it win over skeptics.
In terms of production, Adidas and the Yeezy team worked closely to ensure that materials met the highest standards. Each pair of Yeezy 700s is assembled from over 20 components, including premium suede overlays, breathable mesh, and reflective accents for night-time visibility.
The Cultural Impact: Redefining Sneaker Fashion
The Yeezy 700’s debut was a turning point for sneaker culture. Its initial release was exclusive and pricey—retailing at $300, which was significantly higher than the average sneaker at the time. Despite this, the shoe sold out instantly, and resale prices soared to over $1,000.
More importantly, the Yeezy 700 made chunky sneakers fashionable, effectively igniting the “dad shoe” revival. Major brands such as Balenciaga, Puma, and Nike quickly followed suit, releasing their own versions of oversized trainers. According to data from StockX, sales of “chunky” sneakers increased by 200% between 2017 and 2019, a trend largely attributed to the Yeezy 700’s influence.
Celebrities, athletes, and influencers embraced the sneaker, cementing its status as a must-have item. Even today, the Yeezy 700 continues to command attention with each new release and colorway.
Yeezy 700 vs. Other Yeezy Models: A Comparative Overview
What sets the Yeezy 700 apart from other models in the Yeezy lineup? The table below highlights key differences:
| Feature | Yeezy 700 | Yeezy Boost 350 | Yeezy 500 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2017 | 2015 | 2018 |
| Main Material | Suede, leather, mesh | Primeknit | Suede, mesh, leather |
| Cushioning | BOOST | BOOST | Adiprene+ |
| Silhouette Style | Chunky/dad shoe | Sleek, low-profile | Bulky, retro |
| Retail Price (USD) | 300 | 220 | 200 |
| Notable Colorways | Wave Runner, Mauve, Analog | Turtle Dove, Beluga, Zebra | Blush, Utility Black, Bone White |
This comparison shows how the Yeezy 700 carved its own niche—offering premium materials, bold design, and high comfort thanks to the BOOST sole, all at a price point that reflected its status.
Legacy and Evolution: How the Yeezy 700 Keeps Innovating
Since its launch, the Yeezy 700 has continued to evolve. Several updated versions have been released, including the Yeezy 700 V2, V3, and MNVN, each introducing tweaks in design, technology, and materials. For example, the Yeezy 700 V2 features sleeker paneling and more reflective elements, while the V3 swaps out BOOST for EVA foam to create a lighter, more affordable option.
In 2021, Adidas reported that the Yeezy brand (across all models) generated nearly $1.7 billion in annual revenue, with the 700 series remaining a major contributor. The ongoing popularity of the Yeezy 700 has even influenced sustainability initiatives, leading to the introduction of recycled materials and eco-friendly production methods in later versions.
Collectors and enthusiasts continue to anticipate each new release, and the secondary market remains robust. Some rare colorways regularly fetch over $800 on resale platforms, underscoring the model’s lasting appeal.
Conclusion
The story behind the design of the Yeezy 700 is one of vision, risk, and a reimagining of what makes a sneaker desirable. Kanye West and his collaborators took inspiration from the past, added cutting-edge technology, and weren’t afraid to defy convention. The result was a sneaker that didn’t just ride the wave of fashion—it created one. Today, the Yeezy 700 stands as a testament to the power of bold ideas and the enduring appeal of thoughtful design. Whether you’re a sneakerhead or a casual observer, the Yeezy 700’s journey offers a compelling glimpse into the fusion of art, culture, and innovation.
