The adidas ZX 8000 “Semi-Lucid Blue” Signals a ZX Comeback

Unlike some of adidas’ most evergreen silhouettes — the Superstar, Samba, or even the Gazelle — the ZX line has always operated in cycles. It disappears quietly, then resurfaces when the timing feels right. With the adidas ZX 8000 “Semi-Lucid Blue,” it looks like another wave is beginning to crest.

The ZX 8000 has long been appreciated for its balance of technical design and expressive color-blocking, and this upcoming release leans into both. A greyscale mesh and suede base set a neutral foundation, allowing Semi-Lucid Blue Three Stripes and overlays to stand out without overpowering the silhouette. Lucid Pink accents cut through the muted palette with just enough contrast, adding a playful edge that feels true to classic ZX executions.

Underfoot, the model stays faithful to its roots. The signature yellow Torsion System remains visible through the midsole and is echoed again at the lace dubrae, reinforcing the shoe’s performance DNA. Black midsoles ground the look, while the layered tooling and heel structure retain the industrial, early-90s aesthetic that made the ZX 8000 a cult favorite.

What makes the adidas ZX 8000 “Semi-Lucid Blue” particularly notable is its timing. After years of sporadic releases, recent ZX activity suggests a broader return may be on the horizon. This colorway feels less like a one-off and more like a signal — a reminder of how effective the ZX 8000 can be when color, materials, and heritage align.

While official release details are pending, the adidas ZX 8000 “Semi-Lucid Blue” is expected to arrive in the first half of 2026.

If this pair is any indication, the ZX line may be preparing for a more sustained run back into the spotlight.

For more from the Three Stripes, check out the Adizero Evo SL training shoe.