For some sneaker lovers, wearing new kicks out of the box feels like a crime. They’re too crisp, too clean, and the thought of that first scuff or streak of dirt is unbearable. It is a tragic inevitability that leaves many tiptoeing around puddles and avoiding grass like it’s lava. adidas seems to have clocked this eternal struggle and decided to spare us all the heartache by delivering pre-dirtied sneakers instead.
This isn’t the first time fashion has embraced the pre-distressed aesthetic. Balenciaga sparked debates in 2018 with its heavily worn-looking Triple S sneakers, while Gucci got in on the action in 2017 with pre-dirtied sneakers that looked like they’d just survived a mud run. Adidas now adds its twist with the Ultra Boost Light Pre-dirtied sneakers, taking this high-fashion oddity and grounding it in the performance running world.
Using a clean white and grey base, Adidas has adorned the Primeknit upper, lacing cage, and full-length Boost midsole with scuffs, dirt patterns, and signs of wear. The sneakers look like they’ve logged serious miles, but beneath the cosmetic chaos, they’re fresh as ever. The Boost midsole is 30% lighter than previous versions, the Continental Better rubber outsole offers durability, and at least 20% of the materials are recycled.
Originally teased in early 2024, the sneakers launched quietly in the UK for £170, with a US release still listed as “coming soon.” Stateside buyers can expect to pay US$190 for a pair that skips straight to the well-loved look, with no grass-dodging required. Actually, we do not know if it was ever available stateside. Since January’s bout of news, nothing has been said about its actual availability nor has anyone reviewed it. Perhaps, it is not yet available?
Images: adidas.
