Steven Mena Celebrates 12 Years of MENACE with Adidas Superstar Collab

MENACE WORLDWIDE might've begun as a small $500 operation operating from a car trunk, but the Los Angeles-based brand has grown to become a staple within the California streetwear scene. Founder, Creative Director, and Brand Architect Steven Mena's unrelenting vision and discipline have grown the business well-beyond his initial imagination—so much so that Adidas Originals has taken notice.

Recently, Mena took to social media to announce the next chapter in the inspirational story that MENACE has been, teasing a proper footwear collaboration with the Three Stripes. The initial post didn't confirm which silhouette would be co-branded with the LA brand's logo, but e-commerce photos have solidified that the project reimagines the iconic Adidas Superstar.

Officially clad in a "Wonder White/Dark Blue/Haze Rose" color scheme, the pair's most emblematic detail is the material choice and layout across the upper. An off white suede is arranged in such a way that rectangular and square panels are overlaid atop base layers, creating sections that don't sit flush. Additionally, the sand-reminiscent hue is complemented by curved patterns throughout the profiles. Profile 3-Stripes abandon their typical leather or suede makeups in favor of a flat denim-like execution. A similar "Dark Blue" color takes over the Achilles' heel panel, which features a stylized M on the right shoe; trefoil emblems appear on the left. The material choices and design elements found on the MENACE Superstar reference workwear and working-class culture, honoring the communities that shaped Mena's upbringing and environment.

Other notable details on the MENACE x Adidas Superstar are flat wide laces, decorations on the tongue, and "Haze Rose"-colored fabric across inner lining. The silhouette's beloved shell toe takes on a faux-aged aesthetic that also takes over the tried-and-proven sole unit.

Mena has also previewed collaborative apparel and accessories to accompany his partnership with the Originals team. The capsule marks an important milestone for the creative, who previously worked on gear for the Los Angeles Galaxy.

"At the core of who I am is my Latino roots," said Mena. "My Latino-[A]merican upbringing. My community. That's the foundation. That's where the weight lives and will always live. But I've always been open to different voices, different sounds, different worlds because they expand me. They shape how I see things. They help me grow. So, while my roots ground and guide me, I love that other cultures have helped shape my consciousness. They've helped me become who I am. Through everything I make, what I want to show is the story of someone deeply rooted in where they come from but never closed off."

Enjoy detailed photos of the Superstar ahead, with campaign shots taken by Thalía Gochez. Items are slated to release via the Adidas CONFIRMED app beginning on Tuesday, Oct. 21.

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