After selling out quickly in its first two colorways, Anthony Edwards’ Adidas AE 1 will see its number of variants double in March.
Adidas has confirmed two additional colorways for Edwards’ first signature sneaker and instant hit. “Best of Adi,” a black and white version of the sneaker some have been calling “Stormtrooper,” will kick things off at the beginning of the month. Just a week later, it’ll be followed by “Velocity Blue,” which is consumed by its namesake color (Edwards’ favorite) and breaks from the two-tone trend of its three predecessors. Both versions host a green Adidas logo on the carbon fiber heel panel, the former colorway featuring neon and the latter more in line with the secondary color of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Since making its debut in December, the AE 1 has been widely praised as an invigoration for the performance basketball market while flying off the shelves. In Footwear News‘ feature story on the sneaker, Adidas Basketball execs referred to the scene as “stale” and “a sea of sameness,” including Adidas’ own output.
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“When we looked at the performance basketball space, we felt that the consumer today is much less brand loyal and looking for newness, said Eric Wise, global GM of Adidas Basketball. “So we saw an opportunity there, and we took a look ourselves and said, ‘Over the last decade, if we’re honest, we’ve been inconsistent at best.’ We wanted to get back to being the best version of Adidas.”
That version of Adidas involves the AE 1 allowing its technology to standout out with a simple color-blocking and exterior. A dynamic TPU wing hugs most of the upper and wraps all the way underneath the foot for security while featuring a honeycomb pattern for breathability. The sole unit then features Jet Boost foam hosting smaller “energy capsules” above a herringbone traction pattern.
Then, of course, there’s Edwards himself, who’s having his best season yet statistically while the Timberwolves have been at the top of the Western Conference for much of the season. He’s also contributed a nontrivial amount of trash talk, including for the marketing of his sneaker.
The Adidas AE 1 “Best of Adi” will release March 1, followed by the “Velocity Blue” colorway March 15. Both sneakers will be available through Adidas and select third-party retailers and are priced at $120.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
