words // Brandon Richard
For the holiday season, adidas is continuing to raise the bar on their ultra-lightweight initiative by introducing what they're describing as the lightest shoe from the brand to date.
Adidas Originals' H3LIUM ZXZ Runner was developed using elements from historical and current adidas footwear. The sole of the shoe salutes the ZX8000, a classic runner known for its comfort. Additionally, cues were pulled from the F50 cleat to simplify the shoe's structure, reducing the model's weight while maintaining structural integrity. The result is a shoe that is lightweight, breathable and simply constructed for optimum comfort and support.
The H3LIUM ZXZ Runner was inspired by seam sealed wind-wear and tech fabrics, designed to be worn in varying climates and environmental conditions. With an architectural influence, the triangle pattern featured on the shoe adds structure.
To show appreciation to some of their biggest supporters, adidas Originals created a limited run of special H3LIUM kits. Sole Collector was one of the recipients of the special kit and below is a detailed look. Included in the kit was a pair of H3LIUM ZXZ Runners in Black/Blue, adidas x Sennheiser headphones, an adidas-skinned iPod Nano (with pre-uploaded music from Big Sean, B.o.B. and Mick Boogie) a flipbook and USB key - all packaged within a triangular, capsule-style light-up container.
Below is a look at the special H3LIUM Kit, the new commercial for the shoe and a closer look at several colorways. The Fall/Winter 2011 H3LIUM Collection is available online now at Shop adidas and will hit retailers like Foot Locker, Champs and adidas Originals stores on Monday, December 26th. Retail for the shoe is $110.
