When the Yeezy Boost 700 “Wave Runner” was released, it was a game-changer in the sneaker world. The design took risks, embracing a chunky, retro-inspired aesthetic that Kanye West and Adidas predicted would resonate with sneakerheads and fashion-forward individuals alike. Over time, the 700 became a cornerstone of the Yeezy line, evolving with each new iteration, from the Wave Runner to the V2 and ultimately the Yeezy 700 V3.
The original Wave Runner set the stage with its vibrant color palette and mixture of premium materials. Its color-blocking was bold, with splashes of teal, orange, and yellow that stood out from the monochromatic designs dominating sneaker culture at the time. The materials used—suede, leather, mesh—created a rich, textured appearance that made the shoe feel substantial both on hand and on foot. Underneath all that design was Adidas’ Boost cushioning, known for its comfort and responsiveness, giving the shoe a high-performance edge.
Following the success of the Wave Runner, Adidas and Kanye released the Yeezy 700 V2, a sleeker, more refined version of the original. While the V2 retained the chunky shape, its design leaned toward more subtle colorways and a streamlined upper, losing some of the boldness of the Wave Runner’s palette. The V2 introduced changes in the paneling, with reflective 3M detailing adding a futuristic touch. While some missed the wild color-blocking of the original, the V2’s versatility made it an easy addition to any sneaker rotation.
But the real evolution came with the Yeezy 700 V3. Stripping away the Boost cushioning entirely, the V3 introduced a brand-new look and feel to the Yeezy 700 line. Its design was more aggressive, with a futuristic exoskeleton overlay and angular lines that gave it a space-age vibe. The V3’s unique silhouette proved that the Yeezy 700 wasn’t just a one-trick pony—it could evolve and push the boundaries of what a chunky sneaker could look like. The absence of Boost made it more affordable, bringing the Yeezy 700 into a new price bracket and making it accessible to a broader audience.
While each iteration of the Yeezy 700 has brought something different to the table, they all share Kanye’s commitment to design innovation. From the eye-catching colorways of the original Wave Runner to the futuristic styling of the V3, the Yeezy 700 line has consistently pushed sneaker culture forward. It’s a testament to Kanye’s ability to foresee trends and challenge conventions, ensuring that the Yeezy 700 remains a key player in the sneaker world.