adidas Forum

Introduction to the adidas Forum Collection

The adidas Forum is one of the brand's most iconic basketball sneakers, originally introduced in 1984. Designed by Jacques Chassaing, the Forum was created to provide superior ankle support and cushioning for basketball players, setting a new standard for performance footwear at the time. Its design and technological innovations helped the Forum become one of adidas’ most recognizable models, influencing not only sports but also streetwear and fashion. The unique ankle strap, X-shaped overlay, and high-top construction distinguished the Forum from other sneakers in the market, creating a lasting legacy.

What inspired adidas to create the Forum was the growing demand for high-performance, supportive basketball shoes in the 1980s. With players looking for more stability on the court, the Forum was designed to provide the necessary ankle support without sacrificing style. This led to its widespread popularity, both among athletes and sneaker enthusiasts.

Over the years, the adidas Forum has been at the center of numerous high-profile collaborations, further cementing its place in the world of fashion and streetwear. Collaborations with Ivy Park and Beyoncé brought the Forum into the world of contemporary fashion, featuring bold colorways and design tweaks that reflected the singer’s unique style. The Prada x adidas Forum collaboration, released in 2021, introduced a high-fashion take on the sneaker, with sleek leather finishes and minimalistic branding. Other notable collaborations include A Bathing Ape, known for its bold camo patterns, and the legendary hip-hop group Run-DMC, who helped solidify the Forum’s connection to both music and culture.

Features of adidas Forum

The adidas Forum is known for its distinctive design elements, particularly its signature ankle strap and X-shaped overlay. This high-top sneaker was originally designed for basketball, but its eye-catching look quickly made it a streetwear staple. The Forum is a combination of retro and contemporary design elements, appealing to both sneaker collectors and fashion-forward individuals. Its rigid frame, combined with sleek detailing, has helped maintain its relevance for decades.

These adidas shoes typically feature a combination of premium leather, suede, and synthetic materials for durability and comfort. The padded collar and cushioned midsole provide support and cushioning for both athletic and casual wear. Some versions, particularly in collaborations like the Prada x adidas Forum, use even more luxurious materials, elevating the sneaker to a premium fashion item.

The adidas Forum is available in a wide range of colorways, from classic white and blue combinations to bold, vibrant hues. Collaboration editions often introduce unique color schemes, such as A Bathing Ape’s signature camo and Ivy Park’s bold, earthy tones. These color variants helped the Forum appeal to a broad spectrum of sneaker lovers, from those who appreciate minimalism to those who prefer statement pieces.

Adidas Forum — Variations and Models available at PRM

The adidas Forum Hi is the original high-top version, known for its exceptional ankle support and chunky, basketball-inspired design. Its retro appeal and performance features make it a favorite among basketball enthusiasts and vintage sneaker collectors. The Forum Hi has also been included in various collaborations, like the Ivy Park collection, which introduced fresh colorways and design details, mixing performance with style.

The adidas Forum Low offers a more slimmed-down aesthetic while maintaining the signature elements of the Forum, such as the ankle strap and X-shaped overlay. This version is ideal for those who prefer a low-cut sneaker that’s versatile enough for both casual wear and athletic activities. The Forum Low has seen various colorway releases, including collaborations with brands like A Bathing Ape, which infused streetwear culture into the iconic shoe.

Striking a balance between the Hi and Low versions, the adidas Forum Mid offers ankle support without the bulk of a full high-top. This model is favored by those who want the classic Forum look but with a bit more freedom around the ankle. The Forum Mid has also been featured in special edition releases, showcasing how this model adapts to changing trends in both sports and fashion.

The adidas Forum XLG reinterprets the classic design with modern updates, including an exaggerated, oversized look that resonates with current sneaker trends. The XLG appeals to fashion-forward consumers who appreciate the fusion of retro styling and contemporary aesthetics.

The adidas Forum Bold is a women’s version that elevates the original design with a platform sole, adding height and style. Its bold appearance makes it stand out in the crowd, making it popular among those who seek a statement piece in their wardrobe.

Similar to the Forum Bold, the adidas Forum Bold Stripes version adds a playful twist with exaggerated stripes, emphasizing the adidas branding. This model is favored by those who enjoy bold, attention-grabbing designs that highlight the shoe’s heritage.