KITH, ASICS, and Marvel Comics: Ronnie Fieg’s Reimagining of Iconic Villains and The Infinity Gauntlet
Kith and Marvel have joined forces once again to celebrate Marvel’s 85th anniversary, creating a unique collection of apparel, accessories, and collectibles that reimagine some of the most iconic villains in the Marvel Universe. This collaboration isn’t just about celebrating Marvel’s rich history; it’s about merging two culturally influential brands to create something truly special. Kith, under the creative direction of its founder Ronnie Fieg, has always been known for its innovative approach to fashion and streetwear. This time, they have taken on the challenge of reimagining Marvel’s legendary villains through their unique lens, resulting in a collection that pays homage to the characters we love to hate.
Marvel’s villains have been an integral part of the company’s 85-year history, captivating audiences across various media, from comic books to blockbuster movies and TV shows. These antagonists have not only challenged the heroes but have also added depth and complexity to the stories, making them unforgettable. By collaborating with Kith, Marvel aims to bring these villains into the modern, fashion-forward world, offering fans a new way to engage with their favorite characters. Ronnie Fieg, who has a deep appreciation for Marvel’s rich archive, found great joy in reimagining these iconic artworks, resulting in a collection that is both nostalgic and contemporary.
The collaboration between Kith and Marvel extends beyond apparel, encompassing a wide range of product categories, including accessories and home goods. This expansion allows fans to incorporate their love for Marvel into various aspects of their lives. From jackets, tees, crewnecks, hoodies, and sweaters to headwear, pin sets, chairs, surfboards, posters, clocks, and rugs, the collection offers something for everyone. Paul Gitter, executive vice president at Disney, highlighted the shared ethos between Marvel and Kith as driving forces in the lifestyle space, making this collaboration a natural fit.
One of the standout elements of this collaboration is the partnership with Asics, where Ronnie Fieg has designed five custom models inspired by Marvel characters. These include Spider-Man, Venom, Green Goblin, Silver Surfer, and Magneto. Each model features unique color-blocking and material execution, reflecting the distinct characteristics of the respective villains. The Spider-Man and Venom models will be sold as a double-boxed set, emphasizing their iconic rivalry, while the others will be available individually. This collaboration not only showcases the creativity of Kith and Asics but also celebrates the enduring appeal of Marvel’s characters.
In addition to the footwear, the collection includes a new comic book featuring Marvel villains facing a mysterious threat. Each comic book will come with the purchase of a custom Asics shoe, adding an extra layer of excitement for collectors. Some of these comics will be officially authenticated for the first time in PSA’s history, making them highly coveted items. This innovative approach to merging fashion, footwear, and comic book culture highlights the unique vision of Ronnie Fieg and his ability to create products that resonate with fans on multiple levels.
Another notable aspect of the collaboration is the partnership with luxury home brand Modernica. Together, they have created a custom version of Modernica’s iconic fiberglass shell chair, featuring archival Marvel artwork and a co-branded logo. This piece is not just a functional item but a work of art that celebrates Marvel’s legacy. Additionally, Kith and Marvel have worked with surfboard brand Haydenshapes to create a limited-edition custom board in honor of the Silver Surfer. These collaborations demonstrate the versatility of the Kith x Marvel collection, offering fans unique and high-quality products that transcend traditional merchandise.
The release of this collection is set to coincide with Marvel’s 85th anniversary, making it a significant milestone for both brands. The collection will be available exclusively at Kith stores worldwide, both in-store and online, starting on August 9th. Fans can expect an array of unique and highly coveted items, from thematic t-shirts, character caps, and knitwear to exclusive sneakers and collectible comic books. This release adds to the buzz and excitement surrounding other highly anticipated releases, showcasing the ongoing partnership between Kith and Marvel.
Ronnie Fieg’s passion for both sneakers and comic books is evident in the meticulous design and attention to detail in this collection. His favorite Marvel cinematic universe film is Iron Man, but his overall favorite is Logan, which offered a new perspective on well-known characters. Fieg’s enthusiasm for Marvel’s storytelling and character development is reflected in the thoughtful reimagining of the villains in this collection. This collaboration marks the third time Kith and Marvel have joined forces, with previous collections focusing on Spider-Man and the X-Men.
The Infinity Gauntlet replica is another highlight of this collaboration. Created to celebrate Marvel’s 85th anniversary, this limited-edition paperweight is not just a fancy collectible but also includes infinity stones made of Swarovski crystals. Only 100 gauntlets have been made, with 30 of them coming equipped with the stones. Shipped in a blind box, buyers won’t know if they have the stones until they open the box, adding an element of surprise and exclusivity. This replica, along with other collectibles like anniversary varsity jackets, offers fans a tangible connection to Marvel’s iconic stories and characters.
The Kith x Marvel collection is more than just a celebration of Marvel’s 85th anniversary; it is a testament to the power of collaboration and the ability to create culturally relevant work. By reimagining Marvel’s villains through the Kith lens, Ronnie Fieg has brought a fresh perspective to these beloved characters, making them accessible to a new generation of fans. This collection not only honors Marvel’s legacy but also pushes the boundaries of what is possible in the world of fashion and collectibles.
As the collection launches, fans and collectors alike will have the opportunity to own a piece of this unique collaboration. Whether it’s through the exclusive sneakers, the custom Modernica chair, or the limited-edition Infinity Gauntlet replica, there is something for everyone in this diverse and thoughtfully curated collection. The Kith x Marvel collaboration is a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the enduring appeal of Marvel’s characters, making it a must-have for any fan.
In conclusion, the Kith x Marvel collaboration for Marvel’s 85th anniversary is a groundbreaking collection that reimagines iconic villains through the creative vision of Ronnie Fieg. With a wide range of products, from apparel and accessories to home goods and collectibles, this collection offers fans a new way to engage with their favorite characters. The partnership with Asics, Modernica, and Haydenshapes further enhances the collection’s appeal, showcasing the versatility and cultural influence of both Kith and Marvel. As fans eagerly await the release, this collaboration stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, creativity, and the enduring legacy of Marvel Comics.