Car maker McLaren turns to shoes in bid to stay 'culturally relevant'

The HySpeed is McLaren’s latest move in fashion to sell clothing and accessories that drum up hype for the supercar brand. Photo: Athletic Propulsion Labs

McLaren Group Ltd is getting into sneakers for the first time as the British luxury carmaker looks to reach more consumers through fashion and streetwear partnerships. The automaker worked with shoe label Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) on its footwear debut.

The limited-edition line, called HySpeed, are running trainers in five colours infused with design elements from McLaren’s supercars like its seats and aerodynamics, with a carbon fibre plate and nitrogen-infused cushioning.