Peter Saville Applies Joy Division Graphics to adidas Spezial's Pulsebeat
Putting the focus on luxe black-hued materials.
In April, Manchester United, adidas, and Peter Saville came together for a three-way collaboration that played on Saville’s iconic Joy Division artwork for the seminal album, Unknown Pleasures. While much of the collection released, the sneakers — seen in the lookbook — failed to arrive, until now. Today, adidas Originals previews the Peter Saville x adidas Spezial Pulsebeat SPZL in “Core Black/Carbon,” which is set to arrive in a matter of days.
Updating the archival silhouette, Saville applies the Joy Division graphic to the tongue along with his name embossed into the leather insoles. Elsewhere, “Core Black” suede swathes the uppers entirely, working alongside “Carbon” leather which decorates the zig-zag-cut Three Stripes, eyestay placket and tongue.
A dazzle of 3M hits the Three Stripes and adorns the flat laces too, adding sparkle to the otherwise subdued pair. SPZL branding works the leather heel tab, while a black sole unit completes the muted look.
Altogether, the collaborative effort makes a case for simplistic luxury. While it may be a black sneaker, the luxe mix of materials and subtle nods to Saville’s fame make for a sneaker that’s destined for the collectors among us.
Head over to the adidas CONFIRMED app on September 12 at 9 a.m BST to cop the pair, which retails for £130 GBP (approx. $150 USD).
For more black footwear, check out the Raf Simons FW22 runway boot.
