Original Story (07/05/22): adidas Basketball is bringing back the Gil-Zero, the signature shoe for 3x NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas. The 2022 line of Restomods (modernized retros) features the return of throwback colorways like the “UNDRCRWN,” as well as new iterations like the “Hibachi” that pays homage to a Gil II Zero Benihana collab. We are also getting getting a new “SLAM” colorway, another homage to the Gil II Zero.
The Gil-Zero Restomod “SLAM” is a throwback to the 2008 collaboration between SLAM Magazine and adidas, where the sports magazine designed its own Gil II Zero. It featured orange patent leather and blue horsehair with tiger stripes, a wild design inspired by a cover of SLAM Magazine where Arenas posed shirtless, exposing the tiger tattoo on his chest. Due to injuries, Arenas was out for most of the 2007-08 and 2008-09 season, and this colorway never ended up releasing to the public.
The Gil-Zero Restomod version, however, will be getting a public release. It keeps the orange patent leather and blue tiger stripe design, as well as other original details such as the tiger graphic on the tongue. As a final touch, “MY SWAG IS STILL PHENOMENAL” is embossed on the medial strap, nodding to how the OG had “MY SWAG WAS PHENOMENAL” debossed on the heels.
Grab a first look at the adidas Gil-Zero Restomod “SLAM” below. Expect these to drop later this year on adidas.com and at select retailers.
Update (08/01/22): The adidas Gil-Zero Restomod “SLAM” is now available on adidas.com.
adidas Gil-Zero Restomod “SLAM”
Color: Team Orange/Core Black/Bold Aqua
Style Code: GY6481
Release Date: August 1, 2022
Price: $150 USD
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