Mountain Research’s Reebok Alien Stomper Appears In Black_Sole Says It All

Founded in 1994 by Setsumasa Kobayashi, the Tokyo-based label Mountain Research hasn’t permeated mainstream audiences in the U.S.A. like other Japanese imprints. Yet, over the last several years, the outdoors-obsessed brand has cultivated a cult-like following stateside thanks to footwear collaborations with Reebok, which now include a predominantly black pair of the Alien Stomper silhouette that debuted over 30 years ago.

Back in May 2020, the Kobayashi-founded label reworked the once-movie-prop through an instructional theme, stamping messages like “Keep Strapped To Hold Firmly” across the sneaker’s high-quality leather upper. Mountain Research’s latest Reebok collaboration maintains the same design approach, but covers the high-top model in a pitch-dark color scheme that speaks to Japanese fashion sensibilities. The sneaker’s D.N.A., however, is easily recognizable given its overall shape, use of lockdown straps and 1980s sole unit. Mountain Research’s two-tone logo replaces the Massachusetts-based company’s standard branding on the tongue, adding yet another tally to the partnership’s catalog.

An official Reebok.com launch date hasn’t been confirmed by the brand, but that’s likely to change soon. In the meantime, enjoy product shots of the pair ahead.

In other sneaker news, the Yeezy 450 “Cinder” is expected to release during Spring 2022.