In a groundbreaking collaboration, Adidas Originals and BAPE have unveiled a limited-edition sneaker collection called the Triple-White Forum 84 BAPE Low. This partnership goes beyond the boundaries of traditional fashion, incorporating technology into the mix. The highlight of this collaboration is the introduction of a “digital twin” NFT version of the sneakers, allowing enthusiasts to wear them in the metaverse.
To support this collaboration, Adidas has set up an auction format using NFTs on their Adidas Collect platform. This marks the first occasion that Adidas has ventured into the auction realm for an NFT-driven drop. The digital collectibles will be redeemable via NFTs, providing buyers with unique digital ownership that can be showcased in the metaverse.
The Triple-White Forum 84 BAPE Low sneakers feature BAPE’s iconic shooting star motif on the lateral upper, alongside the embossed “A Bathing Ape” logo in metallic silver foil. Unlike previous camo iterations, this iteration adopts a white colorway. The design is tied to a fascinating narrative that revolves around a “pristine laundrette, located in the heart of a mysterious desert.”
Every pair of sneakers in this collaboration comes equipped with an NFC chip embedded in the left tongue. By scanning the chip with a smartphone, owners gain access to their sneakers’ NFT-based certificates of authenticity. Once physically redeemed, owners will also receive a “digital twin” Ethereum NFT, allowing them to wear the sneakers virtually in the metaverse.
The Adidas Originals x BAPE “Fresh Forum” access pass NFT auction is scheduled to commence on August 22 and will run for 72 hours until August 25. Only 100 Ethereum NFTs, corresponding to 100 pairs of sneakers, will be made available for purchase. Participants who hold Adidas’ 2,298 ALT[er] Ego “Soles” or are part of the BAPE: (B)APETAVERSE community will enjoy a 10% bidding premium, giving them an advantage in the auction.
Prospective purchasers can bid according to their desired shoe size. While only one bid per size can be active simultaneously, buyers have the freedom to place multiple bids. The bidding starts at 0.3 ETH (approximately $550 at current valuation), with no maximum bid limit.
On September 26, the 100 lucky winners of the Adidas Originals x BAPE NFT auction will have the option to burn their tokens and redeem their physical sneakers and digital twins via the Adidas Collect platform. Shipping for the physical sneakers is slated to begin in October.
The partnership between Adidas Originals and BAPE represents a significant milestone in merging fashion with the digital world. By offering both physical sneakers and their digital twins, these brands are exploring new possibilities in the rapidly evolving landscape of NFTs and the metaverse. This collaboration serves as the third part of a series commemorating BAPE’s 30th anniversary, showcasing the ongoing synergy between these two iconic companies. As the boundaries between the physical and digital realms continue to dissolve, collaborations like this are likely to become more prevalent, providing consumers with innovative ways to engage with their favorite brands.