Adidas Skateboarding has tapped pro skater Jamal Smith to reimagine its classic Adimatic sneaker. Co-designed by Smith, the ‘90s silhouette takes inspiration from hip-hop production, sample loops, and the skater’s own affinity for doing tricks involving 360º spins. A beefed-up sole and chunky Three Stripes add to the laid-back, retro feel of the shoe.
The Adimatic sneaker originally came to life through ‘90s skate culture, a time when the “Golden Era” of hip-hop and its accompanying colorful, oversized apparel influenced the skate scene. East Coast skate hubs like Flushing Meadows, Brooklyn Banks, and Philly’s Love Park — where Smith mastered his moves — were at the forefront of new skating styles and inspired the initial Adimatic design. Per a press release, the rider wants his Adidas partnership to pay homage to the heritage of Philly skateboarding, with a goal of uplifting the current community. Smith hopes to “pull inspiration from the past to create the future,” the statement continues.
