Brain Dead has gone digging through the adidas outdoor vault and come back with the ZUPERKLIMB. Working with adidas Originals, the Los Angeles-born label gives the technical archive silhouette a textured, slightly unruly makeover in three colorways: Green, Brown and Core Black.
Name: Brain Dead x adidas Originals ZUPERKLIMB
MSRP: $160 USD
Release Date: November 20
Where to Buy: adidas and Brain Dead
Each pair takes the same rugged blueprint in a different direction. Green is the loudest of the group. It pairs deep navy hairy suede flecked with green fibers against forest-green leather Three Stripes, with a matching eyestay, laces and heel loop. Brown keeps things grounded in tan suede, with chocolate-brown leather stripes and eyestay, brown laces and a cream lining. Core Black goes fully tonal, with black suede, black leather stripes, black laces and a black rand. Silver hardware and reflective details provide the only contrast.
Underneath the styling, the ZUPERKLIMB stays true to its roots. The shoe was originally designed for climbers, and its low-profile build carries that heritage through lacing that runs down toward the toe for a more precise fit. A Stealth rubber outsole wraps up around the forefoot to add grip on the trail, and adiPRENE foam handles cushioning underfoot.
The Brain Dead influence shows up most clearly in the upper. The label's signature shaggy, hairy suede meets semi-open mesh, giving the shoe a tactile, lived-in look from the first wear. Silver speed hooks sit near the collar, and reflective trim adds a technical finish.
The Brain Dead x adidas Originals ZUPERKLIMB arrives November 20 at adidas and Brain Dead, priced at $160 USD.