Brain Dead's Flame-Covered adidas Japan Collection Releases August 2025
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When Kyle Ng founded Brain Dead back in 2014, it started as a Los Angeles-based art collective known for its surrealist visuals and offbeat graphics. Fast forward just over a decade, and it’s become one of the most sought-after streetwear labels in the game – thanks in large part to major drops like the Brain Dead x adidas Japan Collection.
Even though Brain Dead and adidas only started linking up last year, the American imprint has already emerged as one of the German sportswear giant’s most exciting creative partners. For their next project, the duo is taking on the legendary Japan silhouette. First introduced in 1964 to coincide with the Tokyo Olympics, this particular collab was spotted on the runways of Paris Fashion Week earlier this year alongside other models like the Barricade 13, the Taekwondo, and the Climacool 2. But of the entire line-up, this is the one that's really got us hot under the collars.
Revealed in two color combos, the Black is accented with deep purple tones, while the Shadow Brown opts for Hazel Yellow. Whichever one you choose, you’re getting an ultra-premium sneaker wrapped in luxe leather, with fuzzy, flamed hairy suede rising up from the lower panels. Everything’s tied together with custom fuzzy laces that were made exclusively for this collaboration.
Elsewhere, shiny gold co-branding is stamped across the lateral sides, and the midsoles come pre-yellowed for a vintage, worn-in vibe. Around the heel, a leather pull tab adds a finishing touch – an iconic detail that’s been part of the Japan DNA since the very beginning.
Alongside the two low-top colorways, Brain Dead has also crafted a high-top version of the sneaker. The flame details remain, extending up the full height of the collar, while the color scheme opts for a clean combo of black, cream, and olive green.
The Brain Dead x adidas Japan Collection will release August 28, 2025, via Brain Dead, adidas, and select retailers both online and in-store, both pairs will be available in unisex sizing. While you’re here, don’t forget to download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more from the sneaker and streetwear world.
Brain Dead x adidas Japan Black
Images via Foot District
Brain Dead x adidas Japan Shadow Brown
Images via Foot District
Brain Dead x adidas Japan Hi Core Black
Adam Cheung is a writer and editor who specialises in sneakers and streetwear. Over the past few years, he's curated features and guides for everyone from Burberry to Nike. Often travelling between the UK and Hong Kong, don't be too surprised if you find Adam anywhere else around the world taking street photography or feasting on the local delicacies.
