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.
END. x adidas BW Army Chip Shop
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
