Regarding his most recent product release, which is sort of like a cross between socks and shoes, Kanye West has drawn criticism
This is West's first business endeavor following his widely reported split with big fashion retailer Adidas. But instead of making people excited about the brand, they've gone to social media to voice their dissatisfaction.
The shoe in question, known as the YZY POD, undeniably resembles a pair of large tube socks but is designed to be sturdy enough for regular wear.
Described as "foldable" and "travel-friendly," the shoes are currently available for pre-sale.
A statement said: “YEEZY debuts the foldable future of footwear, YZY POD.”
While the design choices have been debated, it is the price of the shoes that has garnered significant attention.
Some have expressed astonishment at the $200 price tag
"Who is willing to pay $200 for a pair of socks?" One person sarcastically questioned
Instead of a strange pair of shoes, like a sock, I would rather donate $200 to charity for children in need at Christmas. What a crazy pair of socks!!!! Another stated.
Spend $200 to buy a shoe like a sock?? Are you kidding me? Someone asked.
My mother will kill me when she sees me wearing "socks" on the street this winter, someone joked.
Kenneth Anand, a member of the YEEZY team, defended the high price tag, attributing it to the exceptional quality of materials used in manufacturing the shoes.
Anand explains, "Critics of the price may not understand the high cost associated with producing quality products, particularly for independent brands."
He further compared YEEZY's prices to those of luxury brands Vetements and Balenciaga, suggesting that YEEZY's models are more affordable, with a price difference of around $400 or more.
In addition to concerns about design and price, fans have been left confused by the limited sizing options available for the YZY POD
Instead of the usual range of sizes, the shoes are only offered in three sizes including one, two, and three. This has left consumers unsure about which size to order, as nobody wants shoes that are too loose or uncomfortably tight.
Kanye West released new shoes after being fired by Adidas for hate speech
Following a series of antisemitic remarks, Adidas fired West in October 2022. This is the first pair of shoes that West has announced since then.
Adidas stated, "Adidas does not tolerate anti-Semitism or any form of hate speech. Kanye's recent comments and actions have been unacceptable, hateful, and dangerous, violating our values of diversity, inclusion, mutual respect, and fairness."
