Artist Cory Infinite has collaborated with adidas Originals to create a one-of-one custom version of the Adistar XLG 2.0 sneaker for singer Teezo Touchdown. Hand-crafted in Kansas City, the design features approximately 170 recycled Ethernet cables and RJ45 connectors attached to the silhouette with zip ties, transforming the sportswear model into a wearable sculpture that mirrors global digital infrastructure.
The Mechanics of Wearable Digital Infrastructure
The customization process relies on repurposing industrial materials to alter the sneaker’s profile. According to project documentation, Infinite utilized roughly 170 recycled Ethernet cables per shoe, securing them with zip ties to create a dense, pixelated texture. The use of transparent RJ45 connectors across the upper is intended to disrupt the original, smooth lines of the adidas Adistar XLG 2.0. By weaving blue cables along the sides, the design maintains the signature three-stripe motif while recontextualizing the brand’s aesthetic through the lens of hardware components.
Did you know? Keyboard keys attached to the laces spell out the names of Cory Infinite and Teezo Touchdown, adding another reference to computer hardware while personalizing the one-off design.
Blending Sport, Music, and Technology
Cory Infinite developed this project with the intent of bridging the gap between football culture and global connectivity. By utilizing Ethernet cables—the physical conduits for data transmission—the design serves as a metaphor for how sport and music link people across networks. This hybrid approach pushes the Adistar XLG 2.0 beyond traditional footwear, positioning it as a piece of “wearable sculpture,” according to project details provided by adidas Originals.
The Shift Toward Upcycled High-Fashion
Pro Tip: When exploring custom footwear, look for designers who utilize non-traditional materials like recycled hardware or industrial textiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who designed the custom adidas Adistar XLG 2.0?
The sneakers were designed by artist Cory Infinite in collaboration with adidas Originals. - What materials were used in the construction?
The build features recycled Ethernet cables, RJ45 connectors, zip ties, and mechanical keyboard keys. - How many cables were used on the shoes?
Approximately 170 Ethernet cables were applied to each shoe. - Where was the project created?
The construction took place in Kansas City, USA.
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