This Is What A Luxury Adidas Basketball Sneaker Looks Like

Since 2003, Yohji Yamamoto has been reinterpreting the expansive Adidas performance catalog through his Y-3 imprint. Twenty-two years later, the legendary Japanese designer is still at it, showcasing just how special the marriage between sport and fashion can be. For his latest effort, Yamamoto has reimagined the Top Ten 2000 once endorsed by Kobe Bryant as the ultra-luxe Megaball.

Uncovered by Elden Monitors, the Y-3 Megaball isn't the first time the storied partnership reworks the Adidas Basketball sneaker worn by Bryant during his rookie NBA season. In 2016, the sub-brand launched the YY Strap Bball High, an avant-garde design that paired the Three Stripes' Feet You Wear technology with an elongated collar, ankle straps, and a zipper on the spine. In comparison to its predecessor, however, the Megaball is a lot more palpable to everyday wearers, although its elevated aesthetic might not be everyone's preference.

The Adidas Y-3 Megaball keeps the Top Ten 2000's sole unit intact. "Black" and "Off White" color schemes take over the retro tooling, matching the tonal finishes above (save for the "Off White" pair's toe cap). A premium, full leather build takes over the high-top upper. The shape and panel layout is reminiscent of other hoops footwear from the 1990s—most notably the Air Jordan 11 and Reebok Question. The overlay on the forefoot, however, harkens back to the classic shell-toe, a detail with which the Three Stripes has played over the years. Giant Y-3 text is embossed on the lateral side, leaving the medial side to enjoy a logo-less, but technology-focused presentation.

Yamamoto's signature appears on the insole, cementing his relationship with the German sportswear brand.

Enjoy official photos of the Megaball by Y-3 ahead. Pairs should release via Adidas.com over the next 10 months.

For more sneaker news, check out the latest from the Air Jordan franchise.