by Brandon Richard

It's a bit of a slight to reduce the latest offering from Yohji Yamamoto's Y3 line to a comparison. After all, a sizable portion of the footwear industry has spent the past few years pulling cues from the designer's footwear. But it's hard to look at the Hayworth Guard High and not see 1) a Batman boot and 2) Kobe Bryant's last two Elite Nike high-tops.

With that said, the fashionable hoop sneaker may be one of the year's most interesting silhouettes. The sleek, but sporty aesthetic is executed with air net mesh construction, complemented by premium leather details. TPU flanks secure the fit and give the shoe a high-tech identity, while waxed laces maintain its upscale appeal.

The Hayworth Guard High retails for $560 at select boutiques like KITH.