Adidas Originals and the innovative Chinese designer Dingyun Zhang have unveiled a new collaboration that gives a fresh look to the iconic Samba sneaker, steering the classic sneaker model into new creative territories. Known for his fluid design philosophy, Zhang has reworked the Samba by integrating elements from football and skateboarding cultures, ensuring the sneaker remains relevant in both its historical and contemporary contexts.
The design process involved Zhang diving deep into the adidas archives in Beijing and Herzogenaurach. This journey allowed him to explore the evolution of the Samba and reinterpret its aesthetic with a bold, new approach. The result is a sneaker that honors its roots while simultaneously breaking traditional boundaries. Zhang’s dedication to innovation is evident in his choice of materials and the structural decisions he made, such as the patent leather upper with wave-like undulations and a suede toe box paired with a matte embossed gum rubber sole.
SNEAKERS
Culturally, the sneaker stands at the intersection of past and present, drawing inspiration from the 2006 adidas Predator Absolute cleat and the skate culture of the early 2000s. The design features an exaggerated cushioned heel and a low-cut silhouette that nods to the era’s skaters who modified their shoes for a more personalized fit. These elements highlight Zhang’s ability to merge different cultural influences into a cohesive design narrative.
In terms of functionality and aesthetics, the sneaker has details such as breathable holes strategically placed along the shoe’s stripes, a shortened tongue, and tonal branding. The monochromatic all-black finish serves as a personal touch from Zhang, reflecting his own experiences during his school years where he had to modify his Sambas to fit uniform standards.
The launch of the adidas Originals by Dingyun Zhang Samba is accompanied by a series of dynamic films that explore the transformation of textures and concepts through advanced technology. This campaign aims to illustrate the craftsmanship and thought process behind the sneaker. Available from May 10th at select retailers and via adidas CONFIRMED, the sign-ups started on May 4th.
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