[Update 21 Sep] Aside from the release of some campaign images below, the Mountain Research x Reebok Beatnik will be available earlier exclusively on Mountain Research from 23rd September, before getting a wider global release on 27th September on Reebok.com.

For the unacquainted, Japanese label Mountain Research is the brainchild of Kobayashi Setsumasa and has a focus in outdoor utility wear. The brand’s draw largely stems from Kobayashi’s visionary mind and designs rooted in nature. His philosophy is also distinctively eccentric — blending mountain wear with ideas of “Anarchism or individualism, and Henry D. Thoreau’s Civil Disobedience”, the fashion designer has a retreat on the Chichibu mountain where he goes to draft and test his collections. If that doesn’t sound like a modern refraction of Thoreau, we don’t know what does. Beyond his lofty ideas, the actual pieces that spawn from his collection are imbued with classic functionality. Kobayashi, though a trendsetter, is not one to partake in trends and instead prefers utility in his works.

Reebok has been a consistent supporter of Mountain Research’s unique approach to outdoor wear and has invited the brand to collaborate on their sneaker silhouettes on more than one occasion. The next model on the Mountain Research overhaul-agenda is the Reebok Beatnik, a slip-on sandal that gained popularity over the pandemic.

In this collaborative edition, the usually-canvas upper of the Beatnik has been replaced with a full-leather construction. This channels the aesthetic of hiking boots that have started to pick up speed in the FW2022 fashion trends. The smooth tan leather is embroidered with flames in white and yellow stitching on the lateral sides. Padded black straps that end in Mountain Research-branded buckles round out the upper while the sole takes on its usual toothy ripples.

This leather Mountain Research x Reebok Beatnik is set to drop on 5 September on select retailers like SSENSE and likely on Reebok.com. It retails for US$130.

Looking for more versatile slip-ons? Bodega just outfitted the Suicoke Kaw Sandal with washed denim.