Last week, adidas Athletics debuted its new Z.N.E. Pulse collection in London. Unlike other sportswear companies and brands, adidas isn’t focused on athleisure as a fashion trend. The range of apparel was inspired by athletes—specifically, their increasing heartbeats before a game. “Everything is rooted in sports,” says Michael Bui, global design director for adidas Athletics. “It’s about driving the lifestyle of an athlete to and from, on and off the court.”
In order to get the best results possible, adidas worked directly with their athletes during the development process. Designers picked the players’ brains about what they wanted the pieces to look like, what fabrics and materials were most comfortable, and any innovations they wanted to see.
The collection includes the new Z.N.E. Pulse knit hoodie and tapered sweatpants for men, as well as sweats and a long cover-up for women—all of which were made with breathable merino wool. Each piece has features made to fit the lifestyle of an athlete. The slightly oversized hoodie, for instance, was designed to help athletes block out paparazzi camera flashes. The fabric used for the knit hoodie also ensures the wearer stays cool. “We wanted to provide athletes with the best products for transitional moments when they’re on the bus, going to the arena or stadium,” says Giuseppe Mele, global director of communications for adidas Athletics. “We wanted to give them something they can wear, they can feel comfortable in, and help them feel relaxed in after a game.”
“The collection feels good,” says Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray, who was one of the adidas athletes present at Z.N.E. Pulse collection launch in London. “I can wear it any time, whether I’m training or not. I can wear it to all my events. I like it. It’s comfortable.”
The adidas Athletics Z.N.E. Pulse collection will be available globally on Aug. 31, with a pre-sale exclusively on adidas.com starting Aug. 22. Prices range from $110 to $200.
