adidas Originals x CLOT Channel the Spirit of the Horse for Chinese New Year 2026 through a culturally rich collection that blends Lunar symbolism, refined craftsmanship, and contemporary streetwear expression under Edison Chen’s creative direction.
What to know
- adidas Originals and CLOT reunite for Chinese New Year 2026 under the creative direction of Edison Chen.
- The collection draws inspiration from the Year of the Horse, symbolizing vitality, strength, and forward momentum.
- Footwear, apparel, and outerwear blend Chinese heritage references with contemporary streetwear and performance sensibility.
- Global release lands January 31, 2026, via the CONFIRMED App, adidas.com, and select retailers.
For Chinese New Year 2026, adidas Originals x CLOT Channel the Spirit of the Horse through a collection that balances symbolism, craftsmanship, and modern expression. Rooted in tradition yet future-facing in execution, the collaboration reflects a shared vision of cultural storytelling translated into contemporary design language.
Unlocking potential through storytelling and symbolism
Just as the Lunar New Year celebrates renewal and good fortune, the campaign centers on unlocking limitless possibilities. For the first time, Edison Chen steps into an anime-inspired universe as a visionary “key master.” Through this narrative, he designs keys that open doors to hidden potential and future opportunity. Importantly, this marks the opening chapter of a multi-part anime series, creatively directed by Chen and set to unfold throughout 2026, with special guests joining the journey along the way.
Footwear rooted in the Year of the Horse
At the heart of the range stands the CLOT Superstar Dress Shoe, a refined reinterpretation of an adidas Originals icon. A cowhide horse-print upper directly references the Year of the Horse, while premium details elevate the silhouette. Leather shell toes, stitched 3-Stripes, cotton laces with gold tips, and leather tassels deliver a formal yet expressive edge. Moreover, a leather-lined interior and leather midsole are grounded by a durable rubber outsole, ensuring everyday wearability without compromising the elevated aesthetic.
Kung fu influences meet modern lifestyle design
Alongside zodiac symbolism, the collection draws inspiration from the elegance and discipline of kung fu. The CLOT Qi Flow embodies this philosophy. Its nylon upper, satin collar, pearl accents, and frog-button closures merge traditional Chinese design cues with a contemporary lifestyle silhouette. An espadrille-inspired outsole further reinforces the blend of heritage craft and modern comfort.
Apparel and outerwear with cultural precision
Apparel extends the narrative by merging martial arts silhouettes with Western tailoring. First, the CLOT Track Jacket, crafted from 100% cotton twill, sets the tone. It features a Mandarin collar, frog-button closures, and rope-detailed 3-Stripes. At the same time, Western-inspired decorative accents add contrast and structure. Meanwhile, a reimagined Beckenbauer Track Pant completes the look. It introduces custom Lunar New Year labeling and herringbone elastic stirrups. As a result, the silhouette gains movement, balance, and refined structure.
Outerwear elevates the story further. The quilted CLOT Jacket, insulated with PrimaLoft Gold Synthetic Fill, stands out as Chen’s personal favorite. Carefully arranged stripes form a distinctive collar pattern that subtly nods to classic Chinese down jackets. Satin lining, braided rope detailing, Concho button closures, and dual snap-button pockets complete a piece that feels both ceremonial and utilitarian.
Celebrating Lunar New Year beyond product
To mark the occasion, adidas Originals will host a Tea Ceremony on January 27 in New York City at Floating Mountain Tea House. The event is open to the public, with limited seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests will receive pieces from the collection ahead of its global release.
The adidas Originals x CLOT Spirit of the Horse collection launches globally on January 31, 2026, at 10AM EST, setting the tone for a year-long creative journey that bridges heritage, storytelling, and modern street culture.
