In the name of sports: adidas x UNDEFEATED Collection
The adidas x UNDEFEATED collection continues to drop designs that are indicative of both brands’ ethos. This year, we get yet another taste of why these two names go so very well together. 2018’s installment seems to be focusing on a common theme with adidas: progressive, practical urban design.
This is likely to go down as one of the more comprehensive releases of the year, comprising of both clothing and footwear options. Though there are plenty of highlights to go over, the most noteworthy in the apparel offering would have to be the Gore-Tex jacket.
Designed to be both lightweight and protective, this build comes with the aforementioned Gore-Tex technology for moisture-fighting properties in even adverse conditions. While we wouldn’t recommend testing hurricane-style gusts, this build also sports powerful wind resistance.
Continuing through the garment lineup, we also see a little more awareness of the branding hype here. The Tech hoodies are subtle compared to the Gore-Tex jacket as they are a tad bit light on the advanced functionality.
And yet, they earn their place on this collection thanks to a terry cotton frame. This build makes for a somewhat heavyweight feel, which provides a solid go-to as the chilly weather makes its way. Still, the major draw on this item will be the oversize co-branding – adidas’s logo is emblazoned on the front while UNDEFEATED decorates the back.
Rounding things off on the clothing side are a few pieces of running-specific design. The Ultra LTD shorts come with a sweat-resistant fabric and plenty of ventilation while the Alphaskin Climaheat leggings offer a protective profile during cold weather training sessions.
Of course, the collection simply wouldn’t be complete without a strong showing from the footwear category as well. Though it’s the key sneaker piece here, the Ultra Boost in this collection isn’t coming with any new tech features. The upper is in its usual Primeknit construction, bordered by TPU caging and sitting on a bed of plush Boost as well as a stretch-web Continental rubber outsole.
Each of the other shoes in this collab come with some fairly interesting key features. The Pure Boost RBL boasts a water-repellent film on its upper as well as reflective details for the perfect companion on dark, rainy runs in the city. The other iteration of this model, the Pure Boost Go, also makes an appearance and sports a 3D-knit upper with nubuck overlays.
The same water-resistant upper design can also be seen here on the Adizero Adios, which also comes with a rip-stop base upper.
Finally, perhaps the most interesting footwear piece of this collection is the Adizero XT Boost. The upper on this shoe is stacked with tech, highlighted by a knit base of Dyneema yarn. On top of that, sections of neoprene and nylon give it a trail shoe sturdiness while maintaining a frame that resembles marathon runners in weight.
It’s an impressive showing from the two brands, bringing together a sense of progressive aesthetics with designs that are quite utilitarian.