Bob Marley Receives First-Ever Official Adidas Sneaker Collaboration
Adidas is set to release its first official sneaker dedicated to reggae legend Bob Marley, marking a significant collaboration between the Marley estate and the sportswear giant. The Bob Marley x Adidas SL 72 ‘One Love’ sneaker, originally planned to coincide with the release of the Bob Marley: One Love biopic in February, faced delays but is now confirmed for an October 15 launch. This marks a notable moment for both fans of the iconic musician and sneaker enthusiasts.
Priced at $100, though resale prices are expected to be higher, the special edition SL 72 features a design that pays homage to Marley’s legacy. The sneaker comes in a sleek black suede and leather upper, contrasted by a vibrant red, green, and gold sole—colors that are synonymous with Marley and the Rastafarian movement. These hues are a nod to Marley’s cultural significance, making the sneakers not only a fashion statement but a tribute to his enduring influence.
Adidas has incorporated several unique details that elevate the sneaker to collector’s item status. One standout feature is the black-and-white image of Marley, which adorns the tongue of the shoe, adding a personal touch. Marley’s signature is embossed in gold on the heel, lending a subtle elegance to the design. Additionally, the insole features a co-branded graphic with “adidas” and “Bob Marley” repeating alongside each other, further emphasizing the collaboration.
Marley’s granddaughter, Zuri, was the first to showcase the sneakers earlier this year in a TikTok video, generating anticipation among fans. The connection between Marley and Adidas is not just a modern marketing move; it’s rooted in the reggae icon’s personal style. Marley was frequently photographed wearing Adidas apparel throughout his life, from the brand’s signature three-striped tracksuits to its bold T-shirts. One particularly iconic image of Marley from 1976 shows him wearing SL 72 sneakers, which may have inspired the design of this collaboration.
The SL 72 model itself has a rich history, having been introduced during the 1972 Munich Summer Olympics as a lightweight running shoe. Known for its sleek and minimalist design, the shoe quickly gained a following among athletes for its agility and comfort. More recently, the SL 72 has seen a resurgence in popularity, with celebrities like Suki Waterhouse and Alexa Chung helping to bring the retro style back into the fashion spotlight.
Though this is Adidas’ first official collaboration with the Marley estate, it’s not the brand’s first venture into Marley-inspired products. Adidas has long embraced Marley’s connection to its brand, but this release cements the relationship in a more official capacity. For fans of both Marley and Adidas, the Bob Marley x Adidas SL 72 ‘One Love’ sneaker offers a chance to celebrate the legendary musician’s legacy in a new way.
With its unique design, cultural significance, and limited availability, the release is likely to attract both sneaker collectors and Marley fans alike.
