Spencer Badu, best known for his uniform-inspired fashion label that questions structure and convention, is getting his first collaboration in the footwear world. Marking his debut is a project with HOKA, which has tapped the Canadian-Ghanaian designer Spencer Badu to deliver a HOKA Elevon X inspired by his lens, grounded in identity, movement, and diasporic heritage.
Badu approached the collaboration with both reverence and intent. “Your first shoe comes with a lot of pressure,” said Badu. “I wanted to create something that reflected the story behind my brand. We design for movement, physical and emotional, and this collaboration captures that. It’s a representation of the journey we take to understand ourselves and our roots.”
The result is a bold yet purposeful take on the Elevon X. The silhouette features a vivid yellow upper contrasted with meaningful iconography that honors Badu’s Ghanaian lineage. Symbolic touches include the Cowrie Shell—historically used as currency on the Gold Coast—and two Adinkra symbols: Fawohodie (representing freedom) and Nyame Dua (symbolizing divine protection and spiritual growth). Each detail nods to liberation and discovery, profound in Badu’s design philosophy and personal narrative.
Images via HOKA
Even with the personalized update to the sneaker, Badu has retained the technical aspects of the HOKA Elevon X. Included in this are the Pebax plate integrated into the sole unit, a chunky, Supercritical EVA foam midsole, and a TPU heel counter for stability and impact protection.
“This partnership captures the pure spirit of a successful collaborative engagement: authenticity, motion, and meaning,” said Thomas Cykana, HOKA’s Senior Director of Global Collaborations and Partnerships. “Spencer brought a vision to the table that aligns deeply with our values, and together we’ve created a moment that tells a powerful story through his eyes.”
The Spencer Badu x HOKA Elevon X will release on May 15, 2025, through Spencer Badu’s website and via select retailers. A wider release will follow on May 16 through HOKA global retailers. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price is set at $225. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
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
