Noah Lyles, the world’s fastest man and Olympic gold medalist, has always been known for his electrifying performances on the track. However, recently, he made headlines for a different kind of debut—unveiling the latest shoe collaboration between global music superstar Bad Bunny and Adidas Originals.
While attending the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, Lyles showcased the highly anticipated Bad Bunny x Adidas Adizero SL72 sneaker, a perfect fusion of classic design and modern innovation. The sneaker features sleek lines, a vintage-inspired silhouette, and cutting-edge technology, making it a standout piece in both the sports and fashion worlds.
A First Look at the Adizero SL72
Rumored since the start of November, the Adizero SL72 collaboration marks a new chapter in Adidas’ ongoing partnership with Bad Bunny, known for his eclectic and trendsetting style. Drawing inspiration from Adidas’ vintage SL72 silhouette, first introduced during the 1972 Munich Olympics, the sneaker blends nostalgic design with modern innovation.
The hybrid sneaker seamlessly merges the retro aesthetics of the SL72 upper with the performance-focused Adizero bottom. Its layered construction creates a dynamic, cocoon-like effect, with materials flowing together in a way that adds depth and texture. This bold design pushes the boundaries of both lifestyle and performance sneakers, making it a standout release in the ever-evolving sneaker culture.
Colorway and Design Details
Lyles sported the sneaker in what appears to be the “Off White/Chalk/Wonder White” colorway, where the neutral tones create a clean, monochromatic base that allows the intricate design elements to truly shine. Subtle hits of blue branding add a pop of color, while a striking black embellishment on the heel offers a bold contrast against the otherwise muted palette.
The upper section of the sneaker stays true to the classic SL72, featuring its signature suede and nylon construction. However, as the eye moves downward, the design transitions seamlessly into a more contemporary aesthetic. A rough-hewn mesh seam separates the upper from the midsole, signaling a shift from retro to modern. Wide mesh panels, shaggy suede overlays, and lined detailing on the heel add a rugged, deconstructed feel, while the sleek Adizero midsole provides a lightweight and responsive foundation that enhances the sneaker’s performance.
Noah Lyles: A Star with Signature Aspirations
Noah Lyles’ decision to debut the Bad Bunny x Adidas Adizero SL72 shoes at such a high-profile event speaks to the growing intersection of sports, fashion, and entertainment. As one of Adidas’ premier athletes, Lyles has long been vocal about the need for track and field stars to receive the same recognition as athletes in more mainstream sports like basketball and soccer.
Despite his numerous accolades, including a gold medal in the 100m at the Paris Olympic Games, Lyles has yet to receive a signature lifestyle sneaker from Adidas—a point of contention for the track star. “I feel like, for how many medals we get, the notoriety we bring back, the fact that that hasn’t happened, that’s cr**y to me,” Lyles remarked in a recent interview. His words speak to the disparity in recognition for athletes in track and field compared to their counterparts in other sports.
While his primary focus remains on performance footwear, Lyles’ appearance in the Bad Bunny collaboration suggests that he appreciates the creative direction Adidas is taking with its lifestyle offerings. By supporting fellow Adidas ambassador Bad Bunny, Lyles is not only highlighting the versatility of the brand but also positioning himself as a crossover athlete with influence beyond the track. His involvement in this sneaker collaboration could pave the way for more opportunities that bridge the gap between athletic performance and high-fashion streetwear, amplifying his status as a global style influencer.
What’s Next for the Adizero SL72?
Though the exact release date for the Bad Bunny x Adidas Adizero SL72 has yet to be confirmed, early reports suggest that the sneaker will drop in three different colorways on December 15. If true, the launch will undoubtedly generate significant buzz, as both Bad Bunny and Adidas have cultivated a loyal following among sneaker enthusiasts and fashion-forward consumers.
The partnership between Bad Bunny and Adidas has already proven to be a resounding success, with previous releases selling out almost instantly. The Adizero SL72 is expected to follow suit, blending heritage design with modern performance to appeal to a wide audience. Fans of both the Puerto Rican superstar and the German sportswear giant are eagerly awaiting more details, including official release information, pricing, and a store list. With the sneaker’s bold design and unique fusion of retro and contemporary elements, it’s poised to be one of the most sought-after releases of the year, continuing to fuel the growing influence of sports, fashion, and celebrity collaborations.
The Growing Influence of Athlete-Artist Collaborations
Lyles’ debut of the Bad Bunny x Adidas Adizero SL72 shoes at the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix underscores the growing influence of athlete-artist collaborations in the sneaker industry. By combining the athletic prowess of stars like Lyles with the cultural cachet of artists like Bad Bunny, Adidas is creating products that resonate across multiple demographics, bridging the worlds of sport, fashion, and music.
This strategy not only elevates the brand’s visibility but also challenges traditional notions of what athletic footwear can be. Sneakers are no longer just performance tools; they are cultural artifacts that reflect the wearer’s identity, personality, and values. The Bad Bunny x Adidas Adizero SL72 embodies this evolution, blending sport, fashion, and artistry into a single, cohesive design that speaks to both athletic performance and modern street culture. With such collaborations, Adidas is helping redefine the future of sneakers as symbols of self-expression and creative fusion.
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Featured image: @nojo18/Instagram
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