In a fusion of local creativity, culture, and community, Unheardof and Adidas have joined forces to unveil the Unheardof x Adidas Rivalry Low ‘Building Bridges.’ This release, limited to only 1,000 pairs, reflects the essence of Unheardof (the Cincinnati-based lifestyle boutique) and celebrates the city’s rich heritage. Each pair is housed in a custom-designed, briefcase-style box, making it more than just another collaboration but a statement of love to the community.
Unheardof: Cincinnati’s Culture Hub
Unheardof isn’t just another shoe store, it’s become a landmark for Cincinnati’s fashion-forward and culture-loving locals. Founded in 2008, the store opened in Downtown Cincinnati with a concept that was new to the city. Inspired by skateboarding, pop art, and Cincinnati’s storied past, Unheardof captivated visitors with graffiti-inspired art, original graphics, and nods to local landmarks. Unheardof quickly became a destination for both locals and tourists, as well as a hub for streetwear and sneaker culture.
Stepping into Unheardof is like stepping into Cincinnati’s story. The store’s design is steeped in local symbols: a suspended shoe wall represents the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, and its walls display artwork of city icons like Avril’s Meats, the Roebling Bridge, the Island Queen, and Riverfront Stadium. Even the bold mural adorning the wall is a tribute to the city, painted by local artist “the Devious.” Unheardof’s influence goes far beyond clothing, shaping Cincinnati’s identity as a center for urban culture, art, and history.
Building Bridges’: The Theme of Connection
The ‘Building Bridges’ theme runs deep in this collaboration, capturing Unheardof’s mission of connecting communities, generations, and cultures. Much like Cincinnati’s Roebling Suspension Bridge, the partnership between Unheardof and Adidas bridges the gap between local and global influence. The sneaker embodies this philosophy, with every design element carefully selected to represent the shared story.
From its refined brick details to the sleek, understated blue colour palette, the Unheardof x Adidas Rivalry Low ‘Building Bridges’ celebrates connection and collaboration in ways that are as symbolic as they are stylish.
The Special Briefcase Box: Packaging That Tells a Story
Limited releases often feature distinctive packaging, but the Unheardof x Adidas Rivalry Low ‘Building Bridges’ takes it to the next level. Each pair is presented in a custom briefcase box that elevates the entire experience. The briefcase is an homage to Cincinnati’s architectural heritage, evoking the city’s bridges and industrial history, and is designed to be as collectible as the sneakers it holds.
With branded lining, custom compartments, and a bold red design, the briefcase makes a statement about the importance of legacy and quality. Every pair is numbered, affirming its place in the exclusive 1,000-pair run and enhancing its status as a rare collector’s piece.
Unheardof’s Impact on Cincinnati’s Culture
Unheardof’s roots in Cincinnati’s art and fashion scene are reflected in every part of the store and every detail of the collaboration. Over the years, it has become a must-visit for sneakerheads and streetwear fans alike, a destination where Cincinnati’s culture is woven into the shopping experience. Unheardof’s famous pig logo is also featured, paying homage to Cincinnati’s heritage as “Porkopolis”, a city once famous for its pork industry.
The store’s interior captures Cincinnati’s industrial beauty with suspended shoe displays inspired by the Roebling Bridge, while its walls are a testament to Cincinnati’s icons and history. This careful integration of local culture, from fixtures to murals, reflects Unheardof’s commitment to embodying the spirit of the city and making it accessible to visitors from all over.
Availability: A Collector’s Dream
The Unheardof x Adidas Rivalry Low ‘Building Bridges’ is a release defined by its exclusivity. With only 1,000 pairs available, this limited sneaker is set to be a coveted piece for collectors and sneaker enthusiasts. The special briefcase box adds an extra layer of exclusivity, ensuring each pair is as memorable as it is valuable. While some pairs will be available at select flagship stores, pop-up events, and limited online releases, they are expected to sell out quickly.
Conclusion
The Unheardof x Adidas Rivalry Low ‘Building Bridges’ release is a milestone for both brands, bringing together the spirit of Cincinnati’s history and Adidas’s international influence. It isn’t just another release but a homage to Cincinnati’s story, a celebration of unity, and a testament to the power of collaboration. For those fortunate enough to own a pair, these sneakers are a tangible reminder of the bridges we build through shared passion and culture, one step at a time.
