The adidas Adistar XLG 2.0 is a Less Expensive Alternative to Pharrell’s adidas Jellyfish

At the end of the 2010s and early in the 2020s, fashion circles and sneakerheads feasted on chunky dad shoes. The trend is by no means over, but it’s definitely lost steam in light of the recent surge in popularity of low-profile, thin-sole silhouettes.

That’s why it was odd to see Pharrell Williams debut his adidas Adistar Jellyfish silhouette earlier this year, an exaggerated version of the mid-2000s adidas Adistar Cushion 3. However, it’s become one of the most anticipated and talked about new models of 2025. If the $300 price tag is scaring you away, good news: adidas is dropping a takedown version next year.

Joining the XLG series of adidas sneakers, which have applied exaggerated and enlarged proportions to key models like the Samba, Superstar, and Stan Smith, the Adistar Cushion 3 influence is just as strong on the Adistar XLG 2.0 as it is on Pharrell’s Jellyfish. Notice the 2.0 naming convention, as adidas did introduce an Adistar XLG, though it’s clear they realized how much more popular Skateboard P’s version of the sneaker was, and pulled inspiration from there.

The same mesh base with raised TPU reinforcements remains, though they aren’t as three-dimensional as the Jellyfish. Branding is also toned down to reflect the Adistar connection, obviously removing any references to Pharrell. Here, we get a look at a Black Grey color scheme, which applies the former of the two shades to most of the upper. Grey accents pop on the lining of the toebox overlay, inside the Three Stripes, and on portions of the sole unit. Finishing the design is the chunky adiPRENE+-cushioned sole unit.

The adidas Adistar XLG 2.0 will debut in 2026 through adidas and select retailers online and in-store. As of this writing, the retail price has not been confirmed. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest happenings in sneakers and streetwear.

Nicholas Vlahos

Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy attending concerts and catching the latest movies. Email: nick@soleretriever.com