adidas x SNEEX Explore the Animal Kingdom With “Wild Rivals,” Adistar XLG 2.0 Designs Inspired by the Mandrill and African Rock Python
(Milwaukee, WI) – adidas and Eric “Shake” James, the community leader behind Milwaukee sneaker boutique SNEEX introduce the “Wild Rivals” Adistar XLG 2.0 pack, the latest chapter in their longstanding creative partnership. Inspired by the animal kingdom, “Wild Rivals” explores the larger-than-life characteristics of the mandrill and African rock python, translating their distinctive colors, textures and natural attributes into two contrasting yet complementary colorways. Both feature glow-in-the-dark details that activate after exposure to light.
The Mandrill colorway draws inspiration from the vivid appearance of the world’s largest monkey. Reflective gradient mesh, super hairy suede, satin accents and semi-translucent elements capture its distinctive coloring and textures. The mandrill’s large social groups, which can exceed 1,000 individuals, echo the community spirit behind the collaboration.
The African Rock Python colorway takes a more understated approach, drawing on Africa’s largest native snake. Embossed snakeskin suede echoes its natural camouflage, complemented by reflective details and satin accents. A removable semi-translucent film overlay references the snake’s shedding process, extending the inspiration beyond pattern into the construction itself.
Joining the campaign is serial entrepreneur and brand mogul Angela Simmons, who brings her larger-than-life presence to the “Wild Rivals” Adistar XLG 2.0 pack against the backdrop of New York City. The campaign draws parallels between the city’s urban jungle and the natural world, where instinct, adaptability and hustle are essential to survival.
adidas Cornerstone Community and SNEEX will mark the release with two Milwaukee events celebrating sneaker design, wildlife education and community. On November 12, SNEEX will host a design workshop in partnership with WOOD U at Hawthorne Elementary, where students can create their own Adistar XLG 2.0 designs, receive their own pairs and learn about primates and reptiles from a representative from the Milwaukee County Zoo. On November 14, SNEEX will celebrate the launch with in-store shoe customization, a gift with purchase and opportunities to meet animal handlers, followed by a separate friends-and-family paint-and-dip event featuring live DJs and an open bar.
“Each collaboration with adidas is an opportunity to connect creative expression with a larger purpose in our community. With “Wild Rivals,” the animal kingdom becomes a starting point for discovery, both in the design of the shoes and in the experiences we create around them. My hope is that people leave with a new perspective, a sense of connection and curiosity that lasts beyond the launch,” said Eric “Shake” James.
The adidas x SNEEX “Wild Rivals” Adistar XLG 2.0 pack will be available beginning November 14 at 11 a.m. CT, both online at clickskicks.net and sneex3rdward.com, and in-store at SNEEX. Priced at $140, the pack will be available in men’s sizes 4–15.
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About adidas
adidas is one of the world’s leading suppliers in the sporting goods industry. The company, headquartered in Herzogenaurach, employs over 62,000 people worldwide and generated sales of 23.7 billion euros in 2024. For more information, please visit www.adidas-Group.com.
About adidas Cornerstone Community
Driven by adidas commitment to industry and societal change, the Cornerstone Community actively supports BIPOC-serving retailers by helping them build engagement, facilitate impactful community-driven events and provides them with access to training opportunities led by esteemed leaders within the adidas industry.
About SNEEX
SNEEX is an upscale sneaker boutique located in the heart of downtown Milwaukee (320 E Brady Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202), offering a meticulously curated selection of premium footwear, apparel, and accessories for men, women, and children. Designed as a destination for the modern, fashion-conscious consumer, the boutique pairs a considered product assortment with a personalized, luxury shopping environment, establishing itself as a go-to for exclusive and sought-after pieces.
Adidas, Eric ‘Shake’ James, Launch ‘Wild Rivals’ Adistar XLG 2.0 Pack
