The recent sneaker collaboration between artist Pharrell Williams and Adidas Originals – called the NMD HU in “Clear Aqua” – will launch on Friday, 14 May. The sneakers feature the word ‘Uluntu’’ which is isXhosa for “human race” and “humanity”, but will not be sold in South Africa.
The Adidas NMD which is short for “Nomad” – is a casual sneaker which features the brand’s trademarked boost material. Pharrell first partnered with Adidas in 2014 and two years later released his first take on the NMD series as part of his “Human Race” collection.
Adidas x Pharrell Williams
The Pharrell Williams x Adidas collection has grown since then. The latest additions to the NMD HU series feature the phrase “human race” in Korean, Vietnamese, and Chinese as a bold graphic stitch across the top of the sneaker between the toe vamp and tongue. The latest edition, drawing inspiration from South Africa, is the first to be released in a blue tone. The brand describes the series as Pharrell’s “exploration of languages from around the world”.
Despite the “Uluntu” NMD HU focusing on a uniquely South African theme, local fans of the sneaker won’t be able to get their hands on a pair.
The sneaker will be sold via Adidas’ online store, mobile app, and at selected retailers around the world. The Pharrell Williams x Adidas NMD HU Clear Aqua will cost approximately R3000 in the United Sates.
