The adidas Handball Spezial Weltmeister (WM) edition is a new kid on the block for The Brand With The Three Stripes, with only two previous iterations released. Creating a new model by adapting previous favorites is a long-standing technique of adidas and a successful one that strikes a balance between innovation and familiarity.
Updating classic designs with modern features, such as new materials, colorways, or enhanced comfort technologies, allows the brand to attract new customers while retaining loyal fans. These subtle tweaks keep the footwear fresh and relevant in a constantly evolving market, ensuring the shoes align with current fashion and lifestyle trends. By maintaining the core identity of popular models, brands preserve the nostalgic appeal that often drives consumer attachment. This strategy generates renewed interest in timeless silhouettes and ensures long-term profitability by keeping existing styles in demand. The Handball Spezial has been an ever-constant for the brand since 1979, and various interpretations have sprung forth.
The Weltmeister in the name translates from German as World Champion and is used to be a tip of the hat for the original sport the sneaker was crafted for handball. Indoor sports have recently become popular, and the stylish looks of the roster that adidas has in that area are more sought-after than ever. Utilizing premium materials, both adidas Handball Spezial WM pairs arrive with uppers constructed of multiple suede overlays. Distinctive perforations are apparent on the toe box, and the straight-edged leather stripes on the sides are double-layered with a nubuck underlay. One pair arrives in noble green hues, contrasted by off-white stripes and heel tabs. The other pair is presented in tones of collegiate navy and bliss orange. Both pairs use shade-sensitive gum soles, with the green pair slightly darker than the blue.
The latest adidas Handball Spezial Weltmeister Pack will release on October 3, 2024, through adidas, and select retailers in-store and online. Coming in men's sizing, retail is set at $150. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app for updates on the latest from adidas and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via adidas
adidas Handball Spezial WM Collegiate Navy Bliss
adidas Handball Spezial WM Noble Green Off-White
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Craig Bell happily talks about sneakers or as he calls them "trainers" every day of the year. An avid Bradford City fan, he's also a big supporter of the Philadelphia Eagles. He will forever profess that Cricket is better than Baseball and that Rugby League is better then Rugby Union. Among his many hot takes, he believes the adidas ZX range is the pinnacle of sneaker design.
