[Update 17 Oct 2022] Exciting news! Official photos and release dates have landed for KAWS’ second collaboration with The North Face. Available from 25 October on The North Face’s website, the apparel collection includes the brand’s iconic ’95 Denali Jacket and ‘94 Himalayan Parka, which are both part of the TNF’s Expedition System that has withstood even the harshest conditions on Earth’s peaks. 

The padded ThermoBall Traction V Mule also makes an appearance. This footwear option, available in four tonal shades of black and white, comes with KAWS’ Xes on the toe and co-branding on the insole. Completing the full KAWS x The North Face fit is a collaborative barrel duffel. For more images, check out the top slider!
While “xx” might mean kisses to the general public, streetwear enthusiasts like ourselves are more inclined to think of KAWS when we see double crosses. KAWS’ simple markings, though rooted in “subvertising”, is ironically an instantly recognisable element that helps to market collaborations even if KAWS’ name isn’t blatantly slapped onto the release.

This tradition continues on in this newly leaked KAWS x The North Face collection, which bears the XX symbols subtly alongside two-tone detailing. A complete 180 from their previous archival collection, which saw TNF’s iconic puffer jackets dressed in blocks of vibrant colors, this latest collection reverts back to the outdoor brand’s incognito status.

Black, white and grays are the color triad of choice. Utilised in patchwork-like colorblocking, this minimalistic design will be featured across a line of zipper jackets and joggers. On the jacket, which seems to be the hero product, KAWS and The North Face branding are printed in white atop breast pockets. The bottom half of the outerwear, as well as the sleeves, see black/gray “camo” waves. The matching pants, too, feature this design but with black panels at the knee area. A white/gray iteration of the camo is also available in jogger pant form.

No concrete news of the collection has attached to these pictures, which are courtesy of @le.syndrome. However, given the Fall-appropriate collection, we’re sure more details will drop soon.

In the meantime, why not check out this crunchy KAWS x General Mills’ Monsters that just landed?