Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s legacy in basketball extends far beyond his impressive stats and accolades, as his influence on sneaker culture is still felt today. The Jabbar OG Collection, first released in 1978, made history as the first basketball sneaker to feature an athlete’s face, solidifying Jabbar’s status as a trailblazer both on and off the court. For the latest iteration of the collection, adidas Basketball has partnered with streetwear powerhouse UNDFTD to bring two new colorways that blend basketball heritage with high fashion sensibilities.
UNDFTD’s involvement in the project is a nod to the brand’s deep roots in sneaker culture, with a focus on storytelling that bridges the gap between basketball and fashion. The new colorways, which will drop exclusively at UNDFTD on November 6 before a global release on November 15, 2024, stay true to the original design while adding fresh hues to the mix.
One of the standout features of the Jabbar OG Collection is the use of premium materials, including smooth leather on the tongue and upper. This smooth and timeless material provides a luxurious feel, while the suede toe cap adds a touch of texture and contrast. Gold foil logos on the tongue and heel pay homage to Jabbar’s legendary career and elevate the classic design to new heights.
Comfort is also a key consideration in the Jabbar OG Collection, with a soft leather collar and lining working together to provide a luxurious feel with every wear. The off-white midsole complements the vintage-inspired design, striking a balance between modern and retro elements. The eyestay treatment, meanwhile, gives the shoe a vintage look that reinforces the collection’s nod to heritage.
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Signature adidas branding is represented by tumbled leather 3-Stripes that add texture and distinction to the sides of the shoe. The result is a sneaker that is both stylish and deeply rooted in basketball history.
The Jabbar OG Collection is a testament to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s enduring influence both on and off the court. With its unique blend of basketball heritage and high fashion sensibilities, this latest iteration is sure to appeal to sneakerheads and basketball fans alike.
In addition to the new colorways, the Jabbar OG is also available in Royal Blue, giving fans a variety of options to choose from. With the new colorways dropping exclusively at UNDFTD on November 6th, fans will need to act fast to get their hands on a pair. The global release on November 15, 2024 will provide a second chance for those who miss out initially, but with the collection’s unique blend of style and history, it’s likely to sell out quickly.
