Combining artisanal design with rugged functionality, the new sneaker balances modern street style with slow-paced adventure.
18 East, known for its thoughtful craftsmanship, has teamed up with French shoemaker Mephisto to launch a brand-new silhouette: the Break Spectrum. This unique low-top blends elements from two of Mephisto’s classics — the Rainbow and Break — into a versatile shoe designed for exploration, both urban and off-grid.
Launching on April 11, the collaboration captures 18 East’s ethos of “handmade gear for the natural world.” It also reflects the brand’s “Slow Fidelity” concept: a lifestyle that prioritizes intentionality over speed.
Made in France, the Break Spectrum features Italian full-grain leather and rough-out suede. Two colorways are available — a brown and green “Beef & Broc” palette and a clean summer-ready mix of white and grey.
Each pair includes Mephisto’s signature SOFT-AIR midsoles for shock absorption, paired with memory foam insoles for comfort. A deeply lugged outsole adds grip for trails and pavement alike. Functional details, such as brass D-ring speed lacing and co-branded midfoot tags, give the shoe both character and practicality.
Built for Adventure, Styled for the Everyday
Founder Antonio Ciongoli had long envisioned a refined low-top hiking shoe. “We’ve played with different iterations at 18 East,” he shared in a 2023 Hypebeast interview. “This one feels like a proper shoe — something polished, but still rugged.”
Whether worn in the city or on a trail, the Break Spectrum delivers on both aesthetics and performance. It’s a sneaker for those who value craftsmanship and take their time getting there.
Release Info
The 18 East x Mephisto Break Spectrum launches Friday, April 11 at 11 AM EST. You can shop it online at 18 East or in-store at their NYC flagship (146 Elizabeth St, NY 10012).
