L’Art de L’Automobile and Salomon Announce Collaboration

L’Art, the lifestyle brand extension of L’Art de L’Automobile, is partnering with Salomon on a unique sneaker collection. The collaboration features two models – the S/Lab Phantasm 3 and the ACS Pro – both inspired by the aerodynamic principles common to running and car design.

Aerodynamics as a Design Influence

The partnership stems from a shared interest in how air interacts with form. Both automobiles and running shoes benefit from optimized aerodynamics. The sneakers utilize colorways based on aero mapping, a visual representation of airflow around an object.

Visualizing Airflow with Color

Warm colors on the sneakers indicate areas of high air resistance, while cooler colors represent more aerodynamic regions. This concept is directly applied to the S/Lab Phantasm 3, which boasts a 30% drag reduction compared to its previous version, thanks to features like its shroud.

Sneaker Details: S/Lab Phantasm 3 and ACS Pro

The S/Lab Phantasm 3 features red markings at the toe, where the shoe first encounters air, transitioning to blues and greens further back. The ACS Pro, a lifestyle model previously featured in L’Art collaborations, showcases more liberal gradients of these same colors.

Arthur Kar on the Collaboration

Arthur Kar, founder of L’Art de L’Automobile, expressed his surprise at entering the running space. “I didn’t want to touch running, but now I’m touching running,” he stated. He emphasized the connection between aerodynamic design in cars and shoes, noting the similar treatment given to runners and Formula One cars.

Marathon Connection and Release Dates

The number 42, representing the kilometers in a marathon, appears on both shoes. The release of the sneakers and accompanying apparel and accessories will coincide with the Paris Marathon in April.

Release Schedule

  • April 8: L’Art’s website
  • April 11: Salomon Paris Champs-Élysées and La Marais stores
  • April 14: Salomon’s website and select retailers

Pricing information has not yet been announced.