Eric “Shake” James and adidas are taking inspiration from the animal kingdom for their latest collaboration, the SNEEX “Wild Rivals” Adistar XLG 2.0 pack.
Launching November 14, the two-shoe collection draws on the mandrill and African rock python, translating their colors and textures into contrasting designs. Both colorways feature glow-in-the-dark details that activate after exposure to light.
The Mandrill pairs reflective gradient mesh with hairy suede, satin accents and semi-translucent elements, drawing from the primate’s vivid appearance. The African Rock Python takes a more subdued approach, combining embossed snakeskin suede with reflective details and satin accents. A removable semi-translucent film overlay references the snake’s shedding process.
Entrepreneur Angela Simmons stars in the New York City campaign, which connects the collection’s wildlife theme with the instinct, adaptability and hustle of urban life.
The launch also includes two Milwaukee events organized by SNEEX and adidas Cornerstone Community. On November 12, a workshop with WOOD U at Hawthorne Elementary will give students the chance to design their own Adistar XLG 2.0 sneakers, receive pairs and learn about primates and reptiles from a Milwaukee County Zoo representative.
On November 14, SNEEX will host in-store shoe customization, a gift with purchase and opportunities to meet animal handlers. A separate friends-and-family paint-and-dip event will feature live DJs and an open bar.
“Each collaboration with adidas is an opportunity to connect creative expression with a larger purpose in our community,” James said. “With ‘Wild Rivals,’ the animal kingdom becomes a starting point for discovery, both in the design of the shoes and in the experiences we create around them.”
The adidas x SNEEX “Wild Rivals” Adistar XLG 2.0 pack releases November 14 at 11 a.m. CT at clickskicks.net, sneex3rdward.com and in-store at SNEEX. Each pair costs $140 and comes in men’s sizes 4–15.