From NikeTalk to Facebook groups to Discord, community-centered forums have been at the heart of the sneaker game since the dawn of the internet age.
Collegium, known for its premium sneakers, has teamed up with Discord for a one-of-a-kind sneaker rooted in community. The Discord x Collegium sneaker is made from premium materials in Italy. The sleek and timeless design mixes Discord’s iconic hues of Blurple and grey.
Inspired by Discord’s Wumpus character, the purple shade of its fur is pulled through in the quarter panel, while its green leaf is highlighted within the sneaker’s heel. An embossed Wumpus logo can also be found on the heel counter, and the company’s new tagline, “Imagine a Place,” is inscribed within the vibrant insole alongside both Wumpus and Clyde, Discord’s famous mascot.
We spoke to Collegium founder Nick Sisombath to learn more about the significance of the collab, what the sneaker means for the community, and more alongside the shoe’s giveaway, which ends on January 28. More information on the giveaway can be found here.
SoleSavy: When did the conversations for the project begin?
Nick Sisombath: In 2021, a mutual friend introduced me to the Discord team, and that’s when these conversations started. What made those conversations so genuine and meaningful was the amazing Discord team we were so lucky to work with. The team shared a very similar journey into sneakers, and we found that those experiences translated into some of the core values we express in our companies today.
One of those important values was a community-first mindset. With our community at the forefront of our minds, we knew we had to create something dedicated to them. That goal then led to the exclusive Collegium x Discord collaboration, which brings the online sneakerhead culture into the physical world.
SS: What’s the hope giveaway winners will feel/admire the most once they receive the shoe?
NS: Again, it goes back to the community. Growing up, collecting sneakers, and being a part of “sneaker groups” gave me a sense of belonging, and I hope that those who receive this shoe walk away with that same feeling.
The project featured subtle nods to Discord— from the images of Wumpus and Clyde to Discord’s iconic purple colorway– so our winners will notice the sleek design we’re known for, as well as the elements that make it uniquely Discord.
SS: Can we expect more from Discord, Collegium, and maybe others down the road?
NS: Collegium and Discord share a similar mission of inclusivity and fostering community. While we have no future plans to announce at this time, make sure to join the Collegium Discord server at Discord.gg/Collegium to hear new updates.
Stay tuned to SoleSavy for more sneaker-related news across the industry, from Collegium to Discord and others.
