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The early part of the 2020s has been a turbulent one over at adidas. Their most successful collaborative partnership (Yeezy) was cut due to controversy, and the brand had to find a way to pivot in a new direction. While at first they were able to lean on classic staples like the Gazelle and Samba, the German sportswear giant pushed boundaries with new silhouettes across the board, including the famed Adizero series. Following the release of the Adizero Aruku, an exaggerated lifestyle runner, adidas is finally dropping its latest lifestyle Adizero sneaker, the Goukana.
Images of the adidas Adizero Goukana first emerged in early 2025, with adidas athlete and the number one overall draft pick in this year’s NFL draft, Travis Hunter, spotted wearing the sneaker. Then in May, adidas quietly rolled out the sneaker at Undefeated in Los Angeles. The reason for this? The pair was designed at the brand’s new headquarters in LA. Nods to the LA design team are found on the inside of the tongue with O.G. LA embroidery and on the lace aglets.
The pendulum in fashion has begun to shift toward low-profile, thin-sole sneakers, but the Adizero Goukana throws that entirely out the window. Inspiration for the chunky, bulbous-looking sneaker comes from a prototype of the Adios Neftenga from 2008. As for its name, Goukana, it’s derived from the Japanese word that roughly translates to “luxurious and plush.” This debut colorway is done in a bright yellow accented by metallic silver and black, another nod to the Adio Neftenga. Packed within the chunky midsole is Lightstrike foam, giving it a plush underfoot experience.
The adidas Adizero Goukana will debut in the Yellow colorway on August 1, 2025, through adidas and select retailers online and in-store. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price is set at $160. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via adidas
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com
