Disrupting tradition with subcultural influences, adidas Originals and Los Angeles-based brand Brain Dead have teamed up to redesign the iconic Stan Smith sneaker. Known for its minimalist design, the Stan Smith has been a staple in the sneaker world for decades. However, this latest iteration brings a bold, disruptive twist to the classic silhouette, reflecting Brain Dead’s aesthetic.
Over the past decade, Brain Dead has carved out a space for itself by merging art, fashion, and subcultural references into a unique identity. By drawing from various cultural touchpoints—ranging from music and film to street art—Brain Dead has established its creative expression. This collaboration with adidas Originals continues this, playing with what this sneaker can represent.
SNEAKERS
Originally designed as a tennis shoe, the Stan Smith has long transcended its athletic roots to become a cultural icon. Its simple, clean design has made it a favorite among a variety of different social groups. The Brain Dead collaboration reinterprets this legacy, changing the sneaker with design elements that are both playful and provocative, without losing the form that made the Stan Smith a classic.
Brain Dead’s take on the Stan Smith features several subtle yet impactful design changes. The introduction of chunky, contrasted laces adds a sense of boldness, while the brand’s “logo head” is perforated into the upper sides of the sneaker. A raw, furry fabric is used for the back padding, offering a tactile contrast to the sneaker’s otherwise sleek profile. The sneaker is available in Cream, Dark Green, Light Blue, and Pink.
True to Brain Dead’s spirit of creativity, the launch of the Stan Smith collaboration is accompanied by an imaginative campaign. Created in collaboration with artist Ryan Decker, the campaign features a surrealist tennis match, complete with flying rackets and bizarre assemblages of objects, perfectly capturing the unconventional and boundary-pushing of Brain Dead.
Set to release in limited quantities, the adidas Originals x Brain Dead Stan Smith sneaker will be available through adidas’ CONFIRMED app, select adidas stores, chosen retailers, and Brain Dead’s website, with sign-ups opening on August 29th. Take a closer look at the sneakers in the Gallery below:
