In a collaboration that continues to captivate the fashion world, Adidas and British designer Grace Wales Bonner have once again joined forces, this time to launch a fresh, unexpected pair of sneakers: the Wales Bonner x Adidas Adios Neftegna. Released on September 10, this drop marks a significant shift from their previous offerings, surprising fans who might have been expecting yet another version of the ever-popular Samba.
Since the collaboration began in 2020, Wales Bonner and Adidas have released over 30 sneaker designs, many of which have become instant sell-outs, particularly the Samba iterations that have dominated the partnership’s releases. However, the Adios Neftegna is not only a departure in design but also a reintroduction of a classic model that has been off the public radar for over a decade.
For those unfamiliar with the Adios Neftegna, its history is steeped in athletic achievement. The sneaker was first introduced in 2008 and gained legendary status when Ethiopian runner Haile Gebrselassie wore it during the Berlin Marathon, where he broke his world record by 29 seconds, finishing with a time of 2:03:59. Despite its impressive pedigree, the Neftegna was never released to the public—until now.
Wales Bonner’s take on the Adios Neftegna is a faithful recreation of the original, bringing back the eye-catching ‘Light Yellow’ and ‘Core Black’ colorway that graced the marathon champion’s feet. The sneaker retains the signature Adiprene foam midsole, known for its exceptional bounce and comfort while introducing subtle updates that reflect Wales Bonner’s refined design ethos. The revamped pair includes suede accents around the lacing system and toebox, along with new logos on the tongue and insole that highlight the collaboration’s unique identity.
In keeping with the exclusivity and attention to detail that Wales Bonner is known for, the Adios Neftegna comes packaged in a limited edition shoebox, created specifically for this release. The sneakers are also accompanied by a special dust bag, adding an extra touch of luxury to the offering.
The Wales Bonner x Adidas Adios Neftegna ‘Light Yellow’ is available through Wales Bonner’s website, Adidas, the Confirmed app, and select retailers worldwide for $220. The sneaker’s limited release and storied background suggest it will be a sought-after addition to any collection.
This drop not only signals a bold new direction for the Wales Bonner x Adidas partnership but also pays homage to one of the greatest running shoes in history, offering sneaker enthusiasts a rare opportunity to own a piece of marathon legacy.
Featured image: Adidas
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