Yeezy 700: Style, History, and Hype Explained 2025

The Yeezy 700 isn’t just a shoe. It’s a story.

A story of bold choices, pop culture rebellion, and futuristic design that flipped the sneaker world upside down.

When Kanye West and Adidas first revealed the Yeezy Boost 700 “Wave Runner” in 2017, the internet didn’t know how to react. Some called it ugly. Some called it genius. But one thing was certain—it got attention. A lot of it.

Since then, the Yeezy 700 has become one of the most talked-about, worn, and reimagined sneakers of the last decade. From influencers to athletes, and from fashion shows to Instagram feeds, the 700 is a modern icon.

Let’s take a closer look at how this chunky, futuristic sneaker built a legacy from scratch—and why it still matters in 2025.

A New Chapter in Sneaker Design: Birth of the Yeezy 700

Before the Yeezy 700, the Yeezy brand was known for sleek, minimalist sneakers like the Yeezy Boost 350. But in 2017, that all changed with one runway show—Yeezy Season 5.

That’s when the Yeezy 700 “Wave Runner” made its debut.

Its chunky sole, layered textures, and mix of neon and earth tones stood in stark contrast to the minimalist design trends dominating the time. Kanye West had introduced something radically different: a sneaker that didn’t play it safe.

Instead of tight-fitting knit uppers, the 700 featured suede, mesh, and leather stacked together. Instead of a flat sole, it had a thick, curvy midsole packed with Boost cushioning.

People didn’t know whether to love it or hate it.
But they definitely talked about it—and that made all the difference.

Why the Yeezy 700 Was a Game Changer

Let’s break down what made the Yeezy 700 so different—and so influential.

1. Chunky Is Cool Again

The Yeezy 700 wasn’t just a shoe—it was the face of the “dad shoe” trend.
Kanye made retro, chunky sneakers not only acceptable but fashionable again. Nike, Balenciaga, and New Balance all followed the lead with their own chunky designs.

2. Texture Over Simplicity

Most shoes at the time used a single upper material. But the 700?
It combined mesh, suede, and leather. The layers gave it a 3D look that popped—especially in colorways like “Wave Runner” and “Inertia.”

3. Colors That Spoke

While most brands stuck to black-and-white, Kanye wasn’t afraid to go bold.
He used pops of neon, muted earth tones, and even Hi-Res Red later on to keep fans guessing.

4. Comfort Meets Design

With Boost cushioning inside most models, the Yeezy 700 delivered on comfort too. It wasn’t just a fashion sneaker—it was a wearable, all-day shoe.

The Yeezy 700 Evolution: From V1 to Hi-Res

Let’s explore how the Yeezy 700 family grew over the years—each version adding a new twist without losing its identity.

Yeezy Boost 700 V1: The Original

The Wave Runner launched in 2017 and changed the game.
It featured multi-material layers, reflective panels, and bold color blocking. Love it or hate it, it was unforgettable.

Key Colorways:

• Wave Runner
• Analog
• Inertia
• Mauve

Yeezy 700 V2: Sleeker and Sportier

Released in 2018, the V2 featured refined lines, better support, and more reflective elements. It felt slightly more athletic and futuristic.

Popular Picks:

• Static
• Tephra
• Geode

Yeezy 700 V3: Futuristic Overhaul

In 2019, Kanye dropped Boost for EVA foam and introduced a glow-in-the-dark RPU cage on the upper. The V3 felt like a sci-fi sneaker.

Memorable Colorways:

• Azael
• Alvah
• Safflower

Yeezy 700 MNVN: Simplified for Performance

Launched in 2020, this model featured a nylon upper and big, bold “700” text on the sides. It was lighter, easier to produce, and more futuristic.

Standouts:

• Orange
• Bone
• Triple Black

Yeezy 700 Hi-Res: Loud and Colorful

By 2022, Kanye took color to the extreme with the Hi-Res collection—red, blue, and vibrant hues shocked fans used to neutrals.

Bold Choices:

Hi-Res Blue

Hi-Res Red

Yeezy 700 in Pop Culture: More Than Just Footwear

The Yeezy 700 didn’t just stay in sneaker circles—it exploded into mainstream pop culture. From celebrity sightings to music videos, this sneaker became a symbol of influence and taste.

Kanye’s Personal Influence

Kanye West wore the Yeezy 700 consistently during high-profile appearances like his Sunday Service events and album launches. Every time he stepped out in them, the resale price surged, and fans took notice.

His role wasn’t just designer—he was the model, the marketer, and the hype machine all in one.

Celebrity Endorsements

Major celebrities embraced the 700.

• Travis Scott and Kylie Jenner wore them publicly.
• LeBron James was spotted rocking the Wave Runners courtside.
• Influencers and streetwear YouTubers constantly featured them in lookbooks.

This type of organic celebrity visibility made the Yeezy 700 a “cool must-have,” without traditional advertising.

Social Media Explosion

On Instagram and TikTok, the Yeezy 700 became a flex-worthy post.
Unboxings, fit checks, and styling reels poured in by the thousands. Even fashion bloggers who didn’t normally wear streetwear found themselves making exceptions.

The Adidas x Kanye Split: What Happened Next?

In 2022, everything changed.
Adidas officially ended its partnership with Kanye West following a series of public controversies. The move sent shockwaves across fashion, business, and sneaker culture.

Who Owns What?

• Adidas kept the designs, including the Yeezy 700 silhouettes.
• Kanye kept the Yeezy brand name.
• This meant Adidas could keep selling 700s—just not under the Yeezy name.

Rebranded Models Hit the Market

Adidas tried to re-release the V1 and V2 under new branding, but the response was lukewarm. Without Kanye’s vision and influence, the sneakers felt disconnected from their origin.

Some sneakerheads refused to buy them. Others hoarded older pairs, driving up resale prices.

Resale Market and Yeezy 700 Value

The resale market for Yeezys has always been active, but post-2022, it saw major spikes—especially for rare or original releases.

Collectors now treat the Yeezy 700 as a limited resource—especially since official Yeezy branding may never return.

Should You Buy Yeezy 700 in 2025?

Still debating if the Yeezy 700 deserves a spot in your rotation or collection? Here’s a breakdown to help decide:

Why You Should Buy

• Timeless Design: It’s still bold, futuristic, and fashionable
• Comfort: Boost cushioning makes V1 and V2 models super wearable
• Cultural Significance: A piece of sneaker and fashion history
• Resale Value: Certain colorways appreciate over time

Why You Might Wait

• High Resale Prices: OG colorways can be expensive now
• Brand Confusion: Adidas’ re-releases lack Yeezy branding
• New Tech Exists: Other brands are innovating with lighter, better tech

How to Style the Yeezy 700

Despite its chunky build, the Yeezy 700 is surprisingly versatile. Here’s how people are styling it in 2025:

1. Streetwear Casual

• Look: Oversized hoodie, joggers, crossbody bag
• Best Colorways: Wave Runner, Mauve, Tephra

2. Techwear/Futuristic

• Look: Monochrome palette, nylon cargos, reflective accents
• Best Colorways: Alvah, Azael (V3)

3. Neutral Minimalist

• Look: Beige trench, wide trousers, plain knitwear
• Best Colorways: Analog, Salt

4. Sport Luxe

• Look: Slim tracksuit, baseball cap, bomber jacket
• Best Colorways: MNVN Bone, Static V2

Yeezy 700: A Cultural Artifact, Not Just Footwear

Even years after its first release, the Yeezy 700 continues to spark conversations.

It’s not just about fashion or hype—it’s about pushing boundaries.
The 700 taught us that sneakers could be loud and wearable, bold and functional. It wasn’t afraid to be different—and that’s exactly why it became iconic.

Even without Kanye’s direct involvement, the ripple effect of the Yeezy 700 will be felt for years in sneaker culture, design philosophy, and the resale economy.

FAQs: Everything You Should Know About Yeezy 700

Q1: What is the Yeezy 700 and why is it iconic?

It’s a chunky sneaker designed by Kanye West with Adidas. Known for bold styling, mixed materials, and ushering in the “dad shoe” trend.

Q2: What’s the difference between V1, V2, V3, and MNVN?

• V1: Original bulky design with Boost
• V2: Streamlined with more reflectivity
• V3: Futuristic cage, no Boost
• MNVN: Nylon upper, oversized “700” text

Q3: Do Yeezy 700s run true to size?

Most buyers size half a size up, especially on V1 and V2. V3 fits narrow—go one full size up if needed.

Q4: Can you still buy Yeezy 700s in 2025?

Yes, but mostly on resale platforms. Adidas may re-release unbranded versions.

Q5: Are they worth it in 2025?

Absolutely, if you value comfort, style, collectibility, and history.

Conclusion: The Yeezy 700 Legacy Lives On

From the Wave Runner’s explosive debut to the futuristic redesigns of the V3, the Yeezy 700 redefined what sneakers could be. It wasn’t just a fashion moment—it was a movement.

In 2025, the Yeezy 700 remains a symbol of fearless design, of how taking a chance on bold ideas can reshape an entire industry. Whether you wear them or collect them, one thing is certain:

The Yeezy 700 is no longer just a sneaker. It’s a legacy.