The sneaker that inspired the Margiela Replica is finally back — the adidas BW Army. Long story short, adidas (or Puma, depending on who you ask) created a low-top sneaker for the West German army in the ‘70s and ‘80s, what we now refer to as the adidas BW Army, and Margiela “borrowed” this shoe, turning into a high fashion staple. Now, after a collab with Hartcopy in 2024, some size? exclusive releases, and two GR renditions, adidas is launching a project with long-time partner END.
Coming as part of END.’s 20th-Anniversary celebrations, this BW Army is inspired by the retailer’s hometown of Newcastle, its coastlines, and the chippys that are beach staples in the summertime. For the uninitiated, a chip shop is a restaurant that primarily serves fish and chips and is usually a quick takeout option in the UK. Nods to fish are found through the fish scale leather overlay on the midfoot, while the insole features a collage of articles recalling past END. x adidas projects on newspaper, a common wrapping used for takeaway from a chippy.
This print is also inside the packaging, while the insole and inside of the tongue contain a co-branded vinegar packet. Another co-branded logo for END and adidas is placed along the tongue tag. The design is completed with the tonal white upper, contrasted by black suede on the heel and a gum rubber outsole.
The END. x adidas BW Army Chip Shop will release on April 18, 2025, through END. online and in-store. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is $140. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via END.
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