Back in 2018, FILA introduced a range of Pokemon sneakers that excited fans of the cult-favorite anime series. In 2019, two photographs of branded Pokemon and adidas Originals footwear silhouettes surfaced on the Internet, ultimately setting fans of the anime on high alert.
The leaked Pokemon sneakers are themed after Pikachu and Squirtle. The shoes take on the silhouette of the adidas Originals Campus. The low-top design boasts a monochromatic exterior, playfully patterned with line drawings of each character. A bold embellishment in the design comes from the lateral side of the Pokemon sneakers where a detail-oriented embroidered version of the character is present. This, without a doubt, adds a playful twist to the design.
Photo Credits: @Hugokickz
Anime-Inspired 90s Nostalgia Sneakers
adidas is Teasing a Possible Collab for Pokemon Sneakers
Trend Themes
1. Anime-inspired Sneakers - The popularity of anime-inspired sneakers shows a growing demand for nostalgic and unique footwear.
2. Cult-favorite Collaborations - The collaboration between Pokemon and adidas highlights the trend of cross-brand partnerships to target niche audiences.
3. Playful Design Embellishments - The embroidered characters on the sneakers demonstrate the potential for adding playful and intricate details to footwear designs.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion and Apparel - The fashion industry can capitalize on the nostalgia trend by creating more anime-inspired sneakers and collaborations with cult-favorite brands.
2. Entertainment and Media - Entertainment companies can explore opportunities to license their popular IPs for unique sneaker collaborations, targeting anime fans.
3. Sports and Athletics - Sports brands can leverage the anime fandom by creating specialized sneakers that appeal to both athletes and anime enthusiasts.