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| International shoemaker Adidas recognizes the market impact of trendsetting Filipinos. |
For years we’ve watched global brands tap designers representing every corner of the world—and rightly so. But here in the US, where Filipino Americans are one of the largest Asian American groups, we’ve been waiting for our turn in the spotlight.
Well, it’s here. German sportswear giant Adidas has finally linked up with a Filipino label, Proudrace, for a limited-edition capsule collection that’s hitting the streets right now. This isn't just a sneaker drop; it's a cultural nod to the Pinoy experience.
The collection, driven by Proudrace creative director Rik Rasos, focuses on the classic Adidas Jabbar Lo—Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's first signature shoe from way back—and includes two graphic t-shirts. The whole thing is infused with a deep sense of Filipino nostalgia that anyone from the diaspora can immediately appreciate.
Co-founder and creative director of Proudrace, Rik Rasos says in a social media post that the call from Adidas Philippines was a surprise. “Adidas Philippines reached out and invited me to present a design to their global team,” he says. What began as an invitation quickly transformed into a full-scale collaboration. “To my surprise and absolute excitement, the global team selected my concept. That set everything in motion.”
The process, Rasos explains, was conscientious. “What followed was a full year of research and development, plus rounds of sampling. Each step sharpening the vision. And now, after all that work, the collaboration has finally come to fruition.” Rasos views the project as an opportunity to introduce Filipino design to the world.
The Details that Matter
Rasos didn't just slap a logo on a shoe. He dug deep into his personal memories to weave authentic Filipino elements into the design. This is representation at its best.Lace Curtains: The iconic three stripes on the side of the shoe aren't just solid lines. They have a subtle, delicate lace pattern. If you grew up in a Filipino home, you know exactly what he’s talking about—those ubiquitous lace curtains that shielded the living room from the world.
Perhaps the most personal touch is a stamp-like patch on the tongue. It features the Proudrace logo and the words "I Miss You." Rasos shared that this is a tribute to letters his father used to send home while working overseas. It speaks to the universal story of the OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) and the deep ties that bind families across oceans.
The execution uses quality vintage suede and smooth leather lining, giving the shoe a retro feel with a dash of California comfort.
Getting Your Hands On A Pair
The collection officially launched on November 21, 2025, and carries a retail price of around P7,000 (or about $118 USD) in the Philippines.
If you want to grab a piece of this history, it might be difficult for buyers outside of the Philippines. If you have relatives or friends in the Philippines, it would be easy for them to buy the shoes for you at select Adidas locations, on the Adidas app and website, and have them mail it to you. In the Philippines the retailers that serve the Filipino community, including Commonwealth, Foot Locker, Atmos, and Titan are suuposed to have the shoes.
These shoes aren't just sneakers; they are wearable art that celebrates Filipino identity, creativity, and history, turning local pride into global statements, say Rappler and Garage.
It might not feel like a big deal, but for Filipinos, no matter where they are in the world, it is a moment of pride for Filipinos. Go get 'em while you can. You know what they say, "If the shoe fits ...."
Well, it’s here. German sportswear giant Adidas has finally linked up with a Filipino label, Proudrace, for a limited-edition capsule collection that’s hitting the streets right now. This isn't just a sneaker drop; it's a cultural nod to the Pinoy experience.
The collection, driven by Proudrace creative director Rik Rasos, focuses on the classic Adidas Jabbar Lo—Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's first signature shoe from way back—and includes two graphic t-shirts. The whole thing is infused with a deep sense of Filipino nostalgia that anyone from the diaspora can immediately appreciate.
Co-founder and creative director of Proudrace, Rik Rasos says in a social media post that the call from Adidas Philippines was a surprise. “Adidas Philippines reached out and invited me to present a design to their global team,” he says. What began as an invitation quickly transformed into a full-scale collaboration. “To my surprise and absolute excitement, the global team selected my concept. That set everything in motion.”
The process, Rasos explains, was conscientious. “What followed was a full year of research and development, plus rounds of sampling. Each step sharpening the vision. And now, after all that work, the collaboration has finally come to fruition.” Rasos views the project as an opportunity to introduce Filipino design to the world.
The Details that Matter
Rasos didn't just slap a logo on a shoe. He dug deep into his personal memories to weave authentic Filipino elements into the design. This is representation at its best.Lace Curtains: The iconic three stripes on the side of the shoe aren't just solid lines. They have a subtle, delicate lace pattern. If you grew up in a Filipino home, you know exactly what he’s talking about—those ubiquitous lace curtains that shielded the living room from the world.
The insole design is inspired by the patterned vinyl tablecloths you see in neighborhood carinderias (eateries) all over the Philippines. A true grassroots touch.
Perhaps the most personal touch is a stamp-like patch on the tongue. It features the Proudrace logo and the words "I Miss You." Rasos shared that this is a tribute to letters his father used to send home while working overseas. It speaks to the universal story of the OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) and the deep ties that bind families across oceans.
The execution uses quality vintage suede and smooth leather lining, giving the shoe a retro feel with a dash of California comfort.
Getting Your Hands On A Pair
The collection officially launched on November 21, 2025, and carries a retail price of around P7,000 (or about $118 USD) in the Philippines.
If you want to grab a piece of this history, it might be difficult for buyers outside of the Philippines. If you have relatives or friends in the Philippines, it would be easy for them to buy the shoes for you at select Adidas locations, on the Adidas app and website, and have them mail it to you. In the Philippines the retailers that serve the Filipino community, including Commonwealth, Foot Locker, Atmos, and Titan are suuposed to have the shoes.
The media has been solid, with features in Vogue Philippines, Preview.ph, and Garage Magazine, all acknowledging this moment as a historic first for a Filipino designer collaborating with the global sportswear giant.
These shoes aren't just sneakers; they are wearable art that celebrates Filipino identity, creativity, and history, turning local pride into global statements, say Rappler and Garage.
It might not feel like a big deal, but for Filipinos, no matter where they are in the world, it is a moment of pride for Filipinos. Go get 'em while you can. You know what they say, "If the shoe fits ...."
EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge.
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