Many moto enthusiasts and fashionistas may not realize that Japanese OEM Kawasaki and German apparel brand Adidas have stylistic ties that date back much further than most realize. While the Adidas ZX500 sneaker drew inspiration from Team Green's sportbike lineup, the Adidas ZX22 KAWASAKI sneaker firmly cements their relationship.
With the ZX22, Kawasaki and Adidas build on their collaborative sneaker release in April, 2022. The original release featured a retro Kawasaki ZX-7R-inspired Adidas ZX 8000, while the ZX 5K BOOST was based on the modern Ninja H2 R.
With a Silver Metallic/Core Black color scheme, the Adidas ZX22 KAWASAKI continues that contemporary theme. Green details adorn the tongue, heel, and BOOST midsole of the shoe.
An outsole made of rubber cradles the plush BOOST cushioning, while a textile lining encloses the user's foot. 25 percent of the sneaker's synthetic upper is made from recycled materials (cutting scraps and post-consumer household waste). The upper isn't just eco-friendly. The Adidas Tri-Stripe pattern and heel inserts feature safety-oriented reflective treatments.
Currently, the Adidas ZX22 KAWASAKI retails for ¥20,900 (tax included). The ZX22 isn't an exclusive to Japan, unlike the original ZX 5K BOOST KAWASAKI and ZX 8000 KAWASAKI. The Ninja-themed footwear retails for $150 in the U.S.
Currently in fashion circles, chunky sneakers are trending, and moto-inspired leather wear is making a comeback, making it the perfect time for Adidas and Kawasaki to reunite. Hopefully, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer and German apparel brand will continue to release ZX-branded sneaker collabs in 2023 if the ZX22 moniker indicates future partnership opportunities.
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