Adidas launches “The First Breath,” its first adidas Running collaboration with Song for the Mute for Spring Summer 2026 season. The project marks a shift in their ongoing partnership, as the Sydney-based label steps into performance running for the first time.
SNEAKERS
Song for the Mute brings its established design language into a technical context shaped by adidas Running. The collection interprets performance through sentiment and subtle imperfection, introducing a different framework for how running appears within this collaboration.
“The First Breath” approaches running through everyday experience. The concept opens space for early risers, daily runners, and individuals who return to movement through personal routine. The collection presents running as instinctive and grounded in lived moments, offering a point of entry that speaks to varied experiences.
RUN 01 marks the debut release within the collaboration. Drawing from fog-heavy mornings and fractured first light, the collection captures early hours shaped by routine. It frames running through everyday experience, including the parent heading out before school drop-off, the commuter choosing the city route, and the individual returning to running through habit.
Song for the Mute reinterprets the adidas Running Supernova Rise 3, an everyday running silhouette designed for comfort, balance, and reliability. The shoe appears in deep earth tones and antiqued neutrals, finished with a hand-drawn midsole graphic that adds a human touch to its engineered form.
The apparel extends through the Adi365 system, which includes tanks, tees, and shorts in men’s, women’s, and unisex fits. The palette includes chalk white, ivory, brown, coffee, and carbon, reinforcing the collection’s atmospheric direction.
Hand-drawn detailing runs throughout the garments. Seams, panels, and logos carry sketched lines that remain unresolved. These elements connect directly to the collection’s visual language. Each piece follows performance construction while adapting to daily use.
The campaign continues the creative exchange with Creative Director Stephen Mann, alongside director-photographer duo Ethan and Tom. The imagery draws from moments surrounding physical effort, including breath before a run, hesitation, and stillness after exertion. The visuals maintain subdued light and an archival tone.
The collection frames imperfection as a reflection of beginnings. It focuses on the first attempt and the first breath, grounding the concept within the experience of starting.
The Song for the Mute Supernova Rise 3 retails at €150. The SS26 collection launches globally on April 2, 2026, through adidas.com, select adidas Running stores, and premium partners.
i ussed to run a lot, and tbh nobody does running sneakers better than adidas. I just wish the running clothing gave more natural material choices.