Web3 technology has been making waves in the fashion world. We've seen brands like Nike and adidas going in on the new digital forefront. Now, one independent label, NXTG3NZ, enters the space to create what they dub “Phygital” footwear, allowing for a digital and physical experience with their products. Teaming up with rapper Lil Durk, the duo is creating a new line of footwear that merges the physical and digital worlds.
The Lil Durk x NXTG3NZ footwear line features the Lil Durk 7220 silhouette that will (eventually) come in physical form. Once pairs are shipped out, an NFC chip will be embedded in the tongue, allowing wearers to connect to a digital experience using their smartphones. The digital experience includes exclusive content from Lil Durk and access to limited-edition merchandise and virtual events.
Each NFT features a unique design, though it isn’t entirely clear if the brand will create a 1:1 copy of this once pairs are produced in the real world. A chunky dad-shoe-like design is utilized, with NXTG3NZ branding placed on the midfoot and a significant “X” (somewhat resembling StockX’s typeface) finding a home on the lateral heel. On top of the NFC chip, the sneaker will come with “superior Italian leather,” “AAA suede,” and will take three months to produce before arriving. Digital renditions showcase vibrant colorways that include a green-based pair, a red one, and a creamy-shaded sneaker.
A road map is provided for those interested. Currently, you can purchase NFTs in the “7220” Collection, with the reveal going down one week after mint, which began on April 11th, 2023. Later on in Q2, NXTG3NZ will collect data for your sneaker, including shipping/billing and sizing info. A video game is also set to be in the works, which will allow you to wear your gear in the game. It is important to note that their site states, “NFT HOLDERS MAY HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY AND PRIORITY RIGHT TO CLAIM A PHYSICAL PAIR OF NXTG3NZ '7220' SNEAKERS AT A DATE NO LATER THAN 6 MONTHS FROM THE LAUNCH DATE (APRIL 11 2023).”
The Lil Durk x NXTG3NZ 7220 Collection is available now on the NXTG3NZ website. Each NFT retails for $520, though only for the first 5,000 purchased. Once this tier is sold out, the price will increase to $720 per NFT. Keep it locked to our Twitter and the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via NXTG3NZ
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com
