Next year, Adidas continues its rich tradition of collaborations with the revered Japanese streetwear brand Bape, delivering two new versions of the iconic Adidas Superstar alongside a matching apparel collection. Scheduled for release in March 2025, this much-anticipated drop promises to merge the classic appeal of Adidas with Bape's distinct style. Here’s a comprehensive look at what you can expect from this exciting collaboration, based on internal documents viewed by Complex.
The Sneakers: A Fusion of Legacy and Innovation
The upcoming Bape x Adidas Superstars will be available in two striking colorways:
- White/Black (JR2701)
- Blue/White (JR2702)
These will retail at £140 for adults, while the white/black pair will also be available in infant sizes for £70.
Distinctive Design Elements:
Embossed Camouflage Pattern:
Bape’s signature camo is tastefully embossed into the leather, offering a tactile and visual depth to the sneaker.
Gold Ape Head Logo:
A small but impactful detail, the Bape ape head logo in gold graces the heels, adding a touch of luxury.
Dual-Branded Lacelock:
The lacelocks feature the logos of both Adidas and Bape, symbolizing the collaboration and enhancing the sneaker’s uniqueness.
Asymmetrical Branding:
The left shoe has Adidas’ iconic three stripes on the lateral side and the Bape star on the medial. Conversely, the right shoe flips this design, providing a dynamic and unconventional look.
Colorway Breakdown:
- White/Black:
This pair features a clean white base with contrasting black stripes, complemented by gold accents on the tongue and heel. Available in both adult and infant sizes.
- Blue/White:
The blue/white variant boasts a vibrant blue with white stripes, also adorned with gold detailing on the laces and logo.
Apparel and Accessories: A Complete Streetwear Package
To complement the sneakers, the Bape x Adidas collaboration extends to a full line of apparel and accessories:
- Apparel: Expect track suits, tees, and full-zip hoodies that seamlessly integrate Bape’s bold streetwear aesthetic with Adidas’ athletic heritage.
- Accessories: The collection includes a cap, a side bag, and socks, designed to match the sneaker’s style and elevate your streetwear game.
Historical Context and Significance
This collaboration is far from the first between Adidas and Bape. The partnership has previously yielded popular iterations of the Superstar, reinforcing both brands' positions in sneaker and streetwear culture. The Superstar, which debuted in 1969, has become one of Adidas' most influential models. As Adidas CEO Bjorn Gulden highlighted, the Superstar is considered “the hottest and biggest shoe that Adidas has ever had.” This collaboration aims to reignite interest in the Superstar, tapping into its legacy while infusing it with Bape's contemporary edge.
Release Date and Availability
According to the internal rollout plan, the Bape x Adidas Superstars and the accompanying apparel are set to launch in March 2025. However, as with all major releases, the exact date may shift, so staying tuned for official updates is crucial.
