Releasing their first collaborative sneaker in 2006, Clot and Nike have been steady partners ever since and have several iconic sneakers to their name. The Air Max 1 “Kiss of Death” that christened their relationship is one of the most sought-after versions of the silhouette ever, and on several occasions they’ve made silk Air Force 1s with tear-away uppers — a feature that’s become more broadly popular as the two parties continued to work together.
Based in Hong Kong, Clot became one of Nike’s most important partners in Asia. The narratives of their collaborations also served to educate the West on Chinese customs such as tea ceremonies, reflexology, and terracotta. But now, as had been rumored throughout the summer, the days of Clot and Nike are now finished.
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At Shanghai Fashion Week, Adidas officially announced the commencement of its partnership with Clot founder Edison Chen. The inaugural collection for their line, which will be known as Adidas Originals by Edison Chen, was shown at Clot’s spring 2024 show. Although there is a clear distinction of Adidas partnering with Chen instead of Clot, per se, the label will still cease its relationship with Nike. A source familiar with the partnership confirmed to Footwear News that the two parties will no longer work together.
“With Adidas, we’re creating to inspire,” Chen said in a press release. “I think the ability to freely create something is one of the reasons why I do this. My whole aesthetic, especially in the past few years, has fully transformed. I haven’t had the chance to create through that lens yet, which is why this collaboration is exciting and nerve-wracking for me because we’re heading in that direction through this partnership. I’m coming in with a new inspiration. I spent the summer in Europe immersing myself in the Adidas brand, which gave me a new point of view. The new EDC vibe is more chic than street. After the 20th year, I’m more excited than ever.”
Among the Adidas x Chen items shown at the runway show were pairs of the Superstar and Gazelle sneakers. There was also no shortage of striped apparel, while a bamboo bag with the trefoil logo was a stand-out.
Adidas says pieces from the inaugural collection will begin releasing in January.
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.
