Edison Chen and adidas Originals continue to push their partnership beyond familiar territory, and the upcoming CLOT adidas Qi Flow is shaping up to be one of their most concept-driven silhouettes to date. Designed as part of adidas’ Lunar New Year 2026 lineup, the model draws inspiration from the Year of the Horse — channeling themes of vitality, strength, and forward motion while blending them with traditional Kung Fu references and modern streetwear design.
Dubbed “Gallop of the Dragon: Power Meets Precision,” the collection pays tribute to Chinese heritage, with Qi Flow serving as its most expressive footwear statement. Rather than reworking an existing adidas classic, Chen and CLOT once again introduce an entirely new silhouette, reinforcing the duo’s commitment to original design over simple reinterpretation.
At the foundation sits an espadrille-style sole, a detail that has become a recognizable throughline in recent CLOT footwear projects. The braided midsole construction delivers a low-profile, grounded feel that aligns with the ongoing slim sneaker movement, while subtly nodding to handcrafted traditions. The result is a shoe that feels equally suited to casual wear and cultural storytelling.
Up top, the Qi Flow leans heavily into a slipper-like build, constructed from deconstructed black textile materials that emphasize flexibility and comfort. The upper opens across the forefoot and is anchored by a diagonal lateral panel, which connects to a larger medial section via three elastic straps. Knotted detailing across the straps adds a tactile, handcrafted element, while a pearl-like accent introduces a refined contrast — balancing symbolism with modern fashion cues.
Together, these elements reflect the duality at the heart of the Year of the Horse inspiration: power paired with control, motion balanced by precision. The design also subtly mirrors Kung Fu philosophy, where discipline, fluidity, and strength coexist — themes that align seamlessly with adidas’ performance heritage and CLOT’s cultural lens.
The CLOT adidas Qi Flow is expected to release during Spring/Summer 2026, with no official date confirmed just yet. As adidas’ Lunar New Year collections continue to expand beyond color and material swaps, this latest effort stands out as a statement piece that blends heritage, innovation, and contemporary design in equal measure.
Stay tuned for updates via our dedicated Adidas Release Dates Calendar.
