COURT STYLE MEETS SUSTAINABILITY: BARCELONA-BASED FOOTWEAR BRAND SAYE INTRODUCES THE M89 ICON SIGNATURE, A REFINED NEW INTERPRETATION OF ITS MOST RECOGNISABLE SILHOUETTE. INSPIRED BY THE ELEGANCE OF TENNIS AND CRAFTED THROUGH A MODERN, RESPONSIBLE APPROACH, THE NEW DESIGN MERGES RETRO SPORTSWEAR REFERENCES WITH MATERIAL INNOVATION AND TIMELESS EVERYDAY STYLE.
Where sport becomes a design reference point: the M89 Icon Signature draws its inspiration from the visual language of tennis — its discipline, its simplicity, and its unmistakable aesthetic codes. A predominantly white colour palette sets the tone, echoing the purity associated with traditional court style, while subtle tonal shifts reference the contrast between clay and grass surfaces.
The silhouette remains grounded in the original M89 identity, yet feels noticeably more elevated in execution. Clean construction, softened proportions, and a restrained design approach give the sneaker a quieter, more mature presence — one that moves easily between casual wear and more considered styling.
At the centre of this evolution is material innovation. The upper is crafted from corn-based napa, chosen for its smooth hand feel and durability, while reinforcing Saye’s ongoing focus on lower-impact alternatives. Across the design, recycled and responsibly sourced components are integrated with intention, reflecting a commitment to reducing environmental impact through better material choices rather than visual excess.
Inside, the sneaker continues this responsible approach with an organic cotton lining and a breathable interior blend made from bamboo fibres and recycled PET derived from post-consumer waste. The insole is developed using recycled polyurethane recovered from discarded mattress production, while the laces are made from certified organic cotton. Even the packaging follows the same logic: fully recycled, recyclable, and designed with a reusable, plastic-free bag.
Produced ethically in Portugal under certified manufacturing standards, the M89 Icon Signature is designed as a long-lasting everyday companion — one that prioritises wearability, comfort, and longevity over seasonal trends.
Beyond the product itself, Saye extends its impact through its ongoing environmental commitment. In collaboration with Greenspark, every pair sold contributes to reforestation and mangrove restoration initiatives in Kenya. These ecosystems are essential in strengthening biodiversity, protecting coastlines, and capturing carbon, while also supporting local communities through more resilient and sustainable livelihoods.
The result is a sneaker that translates tennis-inspired minimalism into a contemporary object: calm in expression, thoughtful in construction, and rooted in a broader responsibility beyond design.
Photos: © Saye
