Axel Arigato x GmbH's New Collab Shoe
Subculture and resistance.
Axel Arigato has teamed up with German fashion label GmbH to unveil an avant-garde sneaker that embodies both brands' dedication to cultural and creative experimentation. Debuting as part of GmbH’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection titled Resistance Through Rituals at Berlin Fashion Week, this sneaker collaboration dives into the intersection of music, subculture, and design that both labels celebrate.
Known for unexpected cultural collaborations, Axel Arigato found a natural partner in GmbH, a Berlin-based label founded by Benjamin A. Huseby and Serhat Isik. GmbH’s vision is deeply rooted in Berlin’s underground music scene, aiming to challenge societal norms through fashion, runway, and even a recent music album release. Together, the brands crafted a sneaker that combines a futuristic aesthetic with historical nods to medieval armor, exploring themes of protection and resilience.
The collaborative sneaker features two colorways—metallic silver and patent black—and reimagines chainmail with a sleek mesh, while leather panels evoke armor’s protective feel. GmbH and Axel Arigato have shaped a sneaker that makes a statement against racism and fascism, blending radical design with a message of resistance.
The sneaker’s release will coincide with a one-night event in Berlin, celebrating the city's revolutionary music and nightlife scenes that inspired the design. Jens Werner, Creative Director at Axel Arigato, expressed admiration for GmbH’s bold, confrontational approach, noting how their focus on music and Berlin’s rich culture aligned with Axel Arigato’s ethos. GmbH’s Creative Directors, Huseby and Isik, also highlighted the brands' shared values of quality, sustainability, and community.
Available globally starting October 31, 2024, the Axel Arigato x GmbH sneaker will retail at €320, £300, or $425, marking a bold addition to any wardrobe that bridges fashion, history, and subcultural style.