Ewing x Cope 2 "Redbird" Sport Lite

Born in 1968 as Fernando Carlo, Jr., the artist known as Cope 2 has a career that spans over 40 years. He is a self-taught graffiti artist who went from achieving "all city" status to being exhibited all over the globe. If you’re from New York, you’ve likely come across his signature tag at some point in your life, as he’s been throwing it up since the '80s. Even if you’re not from New York, Cope’s work has also appeared in countless publications, movies, and video games — prominently featured in Mark Ecko’s "Getting Up" and in GTA IV.

We are thrilled to unveil the second sneaker of our collaboration with Cope, but this time around we worked on a unique rendition of the Sport Lite. The sneakers feature an all-red upper as a callback to the 'Redbird' trains that were created as a cost-saving measure by the MTA to combat graffiti, which is why you will not find graffiti anywhere on this shoe. Additionally, the sneakers feature hits of black and reflective paneling to mimic the 'Redbird' train exterior. We've also created custom insoles that feature a reproduction of a subway map, along with a custom gold tongue logo designed by Cope—inspired by the NYC subway tokens that were retired in 2003. Lastly, the sneakers come in a special graffiti box designed by Cope.

The Ewing x Cope 33 HI “Redbird” is now available on ewingathletics.com in sizes 5-16 but don’t be a toy and get caught sleeping as this piece is only available in limited quantities.