Balance Restored: Brain Dead Reframe the adidas Taekwondo

Few model show the brand’s knack for adaptation like the Taekwondo. Originally designed for martial arts in the 80s, the model was all about balance, precision, and clean movement. By the noughties, the Taekwondo's slim form was remixed for everyday wear, becoming part of the low-profile craze that shaped the decade. The silhouette later inspired s experiments and, in more recent years, returned with subtle upgrades: heightened midsoles, gum outsoles and collaborations from and .

Building on their previous colab, the LA collective's 'Taekwondo' Pack plays with those foundations through material and construction. Arriving in two colourways, the 'Silver Metallic' version exaggerates the silhouette’s form with a smoothed, reflective upper and reinforced overlays. A lace shroud covers the system for a sleeker profile, while a chip-like embellishment on the tongue introduces an ornamental, cybernetic twist.

Meanwhile, the 'Core Black' edition goes in the opposite direction. Premium leather, visible laces and a cream sole return the silhouette to its most elemental form. White Three Stripes add definition, while the absence of a shroud or chip detail emphasises simplicity.

With 2025 nearing its end, slim silhouettes haven't finished their moment. From the continued hype around to the return of , and even adidas’ continued efforts, the appetite for sleek, minimal builds shows no signs of slowing.

Get ready to grapple! The Brain Dead x adidas 'Taekwondo' Pack is set to drop later this year via the adidas webstore and select retailers.

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