Is all forgiven following Balenciaga‘s controversial campaign? While many Balenciaga products are readily available, it seems that one particular item from the House’s New York Stock Exchange-held Spring 2023 runway collection is causing a stir of its own — the $1,400 USD Balenciaga Steroid Boot, which has sold out globally.

For those who need reminding, Balenciaga recently came under fire for a number of reasons. First, it was associated with Ye, leading the brand to part ways with the rapper and fashion designer after his own bout of controversy surrounding the YZYSZN9 show. Following this, Balenciaga promoted a campaign that saw children clutching the denounced bondage-esque Teddy Bear Bags, with many deeming this inappropriate. It then sued the production company behind the campaign, and has since had its partnership with adidas put under review.

But can it find redemption?

Balenciaga’s Steroid Boot was one of the hottest items on its Spring 2023 runway. Many lauded Demna for his ability to take simplicity to the extreme, blowing the EVA boot up into almost comical proportions.

An extra-round toe, smooth monochromatic aesthetic, flat-to-the-touch design, and padding throughout create a boot that’s sterile with the touches of a pair of clown shoes.

Balenciaga’s irreverence often correlates to products (like the Lay’s pochette or Trash Bag), selling out and causing mass hysteria. Is the new Steroid Boot the perfect viral enhancer to an outfit, have they sold out because of pure love for the design, or is Balenciaga’s chokehold on the scene so strong that its clientele has moved on from the House’s controversy?

Either way, Balenciaga’s ability to sell out, coupled with how it tries to repair its image, will likely be worth monitoring over the course of 2023.