Munich prepares once again for Oktoberfest, and adidas joins forces with German sneaker boutique BSTN to mark the occasion with a limited-edition release. The collaboration introduces two exclusive colorways of the München silhouette, reimagined to connect both Bavarian heritage and the Italian presence that has become part of the festival’s identity.
SNEAKERS
The concept behind the project comes from a local joke. In recent years, Italian tourists have flocked to Munich in such numbers that locals now refer to the festival’s second weekend as “Italian Weekend.” Rather than treat this phenomenon as an aside, adidas and BSTN embraced it and created a sneaker that acknowledges the cultural exchange with a sense of humor and style.
Each sneaker in the collection features Italian phrases that strengthen this playful connection. “Salute,” the Italian toast meaning “cheers,” appears on the shoe itself, while the phrase “Brindiamo” meaning “let’s raise a glass” takes center stage on the collaboration’s custom crest.
The sneakers also remain grounded in Bavarian tradition. adidas and BSTN drew inspiration from the clothing most associated with Oktoberfest: lederhosen. The two colorways: “Dark Brown / Dark Green” and “Taupe / Sage Green” echo the tones and textures found in these garments. Designers used subtle embroidery on each heel to deepen the connection to Wiesn culture, Munich’s local name for the festival.
The choice of materials and colors elevates the München silhouette with details that both locals and visitors can recognize. The darker palette suggests the sturdy leather of traditional attire, while the green tones reference accents often found in Bavarian dress. The taupe and sage combination provides a softer interpretation, broadening the collection’s reach while still linking it to Oktoberfest’s visual language.
These elements produce a sneaker that reflects the balance of old and new traditions. Oktoberfest continues to evolve with its global audience, and the Italian influence has become a fixture of its modern identity. By introducing phrases in Italian alongside visual nods to Bavarian attire, adidas and BSTN acknowledge the duality of the festival’s character today.
The release comes at a moment when fashion collaborations often serve as cultural commentary. Rather than present a generic Oktoberfest sneaker, adidas and BSTN designed a collection that engages with the humor and warmth surrounding the event.
The adidas x BSTN München ‘Oktoberfest’ collection launches September 13. Pairs will be available at BSTN’s flagship store in Munich and on the retailer’s website. Limited numbers emphasize the exclusivity of the release, ensuring that these sneakers will stand as both collector’s items and wearable souvenirs of a festival that continues to draw crowds from Germany, Italy, and beyond.
