To celebrate the recently introduced Lexus UX series, the luxury brand has teamed up with none-other than CAFA Menswear designer of the year Christopher Bates. Together, they are bringing you a limited-edition sneaker, master-crafted in Italy from the finest materials with design cues from the sharp, sporty, and posh new Lexus UX crossover. This collaboration marks a first for Lexus, and we are excited to chat with Bob Tsang, Director of Lexus in Canada, and Christopher Bates about their launch.

1. What sparked the partnership between Lexus and Christopher Bates?

B.T: The Lexus brand has always been about a blend of style and craftsmanship. Last year, we launched our first-ever Lexus UX series. It’s our newest, nimblest crossover, and it’s perfect for carving through city streets with style and finesse – just like Christopher Bates’ sneakers. The collab just made perfect sense.

2. How excited are you about the launch of this limited-edition Lexus UX inspired sneaker?

B.T: We’re thrilled to launch this limited-edition sneaker. We’ve never done this before, and we love the idea of our Guests amping up their style game with a finely crafted, Canadian-designed sneaker inspired by the UX.

3. Can we expect more designs and releases inspired by the Lexus lineup?

B.T: We tend to keep future projects under wraps, but we are always looking to support emerging and established Canadian designers. We’re excited to see the response to our collaboration with Christopher Bates!

4. As a leader in style and craftsmanship, what are some ways the Lexus UX highlights the core values of Lexus?

B.T: The UX stands out from the crowd with its convention-shattering design. The bold spindle grille, dramatically flared fenders, and unique head and taillights round out UX’s innovative character and cutting-edge appeal. And on the inside, the UX wraps the driver in a precision-built cockpit finished in premium surfaces and vehicle controls that feel just right in your hands. It also keeps our Guests connected with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The UX even offers the ability to remotely start and stop the vehicle through the all-new Lexus App.

5. What are some of your favorite design elements for this new release?

B.T: When viewed from the back, the shoe mimics the Lexus Spindle grille shape. Also, the sneaker’s colorway is inspired by some of our signature colors – Ultra White and Obsidian Black paint and our eye-catching Circuit Red interior.

6. What can you tell us about the new collection?

C.B: Working with such an iconic global brand as Lexus has been a terrific experience. The sneaker design is inspired by the bold style of the new Lexus UX. They were produced in Italy at a cutting edge factory that specializes in high-end sneakers. Made from luxurious, supple leather, the sneakers feature signature details including Lexus circuit red trim, perforated leather, a black and white split rubber sole, a racing stripe down the center of the tongue, and tasteful Lexus branding.

Find the Lexus, Christopher Bates limited-edition sneakers across the country at Lexus Boutiques

For the latest in fashion, lifestyle and culture-follow us @HOLRMagazine.