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Adidas and Parley made their most sustainable running sneaker yet
The new Parley Adizero uses 42 percent less carbon in its production than previous models.
One of the challenges with sneaker sustainability is creating an eco-friendly product that doesn’t compromise performance and quality. But for Adidas and Parley for the Oceans, that doesn’t seem to be much of an obstacle. Their latest addition to the sustainable footwear market is the Adizero sneaker, a lightweight running shoe that’s seriously reduced its carbon emissions.
Light products, heavy hitters — Although the Adidas Adizero line is based on creating heavy-performing products that are as light as a feather, the Parley Adizero carries out the mission with an increased emphasis on recycled materials and sustainability. Compared to previous models, the Parley Adizero sees a 42 percent reduction in its carbon footprint. The sneaker itself isn’t flashy, but it does infuse Adidas’s performance-based philosophies with Parley’s sleek vibes.
The Adidas x Parley Adizero first debuted earlier this month in a darker black-and-gray color scheme. The latest silhouette boasts a clean color palette of mostly white with slight hits of color coming in blue, aqua, and red. Non-virgin Mesh makes up the upper for a light and breathable construction, which is contrasted by a dark gray panel on the heel and matching tongue and lace system. Looking deeper, the upper is made using at least 50 percent recycled Parley Ocean Plastic and 50 percent recycled polyester.
Light blue appears near the collar, along with the Adizero name, and red coats the inner sockliner and heel tag. The red tags, which are found on the heel and tongue, also feature some of the collab's messaging and stats, nodding to the Adidas x Parley mission. Underfoot, the sneaker gets fitted with a LIGHTSTRIKE cushion for a bouncy and supportive foundation. Black and brown panels round out the outsoles for some added grip as you hit the pavement.
Latest and greatest — Adidas is no stranger to sustainability, using its labs to create one of the hottest eco-friendly product rosters on the market. The brand has long experimented with its material use with materials like wood and special recycled fabrics, even dipping its toe into making jackets that are just as recyclable as its shoes. While its partnership with Parley is ongoing, Adidas is still on track to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
The Adidas x Parley for the Oceans Adizero sneaker will release on June 15 for $130 via the Adidas website. It should be a perfect shoe for those who love running and the planet.