Jungle Spirit, Dayak Soul, and the Sneaker That Wears a Story
Every sneaker tells a story. But not every sneaker speaks the language of the jungle.
For their latest entry in the Island Series, Adidas Indonesia ventures deep into the heart of Borneo—specifically Kalimantan, the Indonesian side of the world’s third-largest island. Following the bold, tropical vibes of Bali and the earthy mystique of Sumatra, SS25 Kalimantan is less postcard, more poetry. The kind of poetry written in the language of rainforests, river spirits, and Dayak legends.
And what better silhouette to carry the tale than the SL72—the vintage runner first born on the tracks of the 1972 Munich Olympics, now reimagined for the streets of Jakarta, Berlin, or anywhere style meets soul.
Jungle-Grade Aesthetics
At first glance, it’s the colors that pull you in: a lush forest green base, layered with earthy browns, warm creams, and sunlit yellows. It’s the palette of filtered sunlight breaking through centuries-old canopy—nature’s very own moodboard. The tones don’t shout; they hum. Like the quiet confidence of a man who’s been places.
The sneaker’s laces are the true conversation starter: woven with patterns inspired by Dayak textile traditions, they reflect the heritage of Kalimantan’s indigenous people—proud artisans whose geometric motifs often symbolize protection, harmony, and balance with nature. This is sneaker design as anthropology. Cultural fluency in leather and lace.
And of course, no detail escapes the Originals treatment. The tongue is embossed with “Adidas Originals Kalimantan”, a seal that’s equal parts collectible and cult. Wear it like a badge of honor.
Where Streetwear Meets Ritual
Here’s the thing most brands miss: honoring culture isn’t about slapping a motif on a product. It’s about understanding the soul behind it. And in this drop, Adidas doesn’t just borrow; it collaborates—with history, with landscape, with legacy.
