‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ Leans Into the Adidas Superstar Sneaker’s ‘Shelltoe’ Nickname

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” is collaborating with Adidas on a Superstar leaning into its “Shelltoe” nickname.

The Superstar’s signature toe panel has been transformed to take on the texture of an actual turtle shell. But that isn’t where the resemblance to the characters ends, as the rest of the upper takes on a wrinkled green leather that looks just like a turtle’s skin. “Shelltoe” then appears in gold debossing to replace the usual “Superstar” mark, and another shell motif appears on the left tongue tag.

“TMNT” detailing continues throughout, including a red mask forming the lace dubrae to match the Three Stripes motif in the same color. Although most may associate the red mask with Raphael, all of the characters wore the same color in the original comic, which is where this collaborated is rooted. Custom insoles bear a pizza-inspired graphic, and when they’re removed a hidden “city sewer” plate graphic is revealed on the footbed. “Ninja Power” is printed on the underside of the tongue, while the mustache branding takes after comic outlining and the “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” logo.

Each pair will also swap shoe boxes for action figure-style blister packaging with a comic pages printed on the front and back. This year is the 40th anniversary of the “TMNT,” which began as a comic in 1984 before spawning five TV shows and seven films.

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Adidas Superstar “Shelltoe” will release March 22 through Adidas’ website and select third-party retailers. Pricing is set at $130.

About the Author:

Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.