Kanye West accused adidas of plagiarism. What the brand’s main partner didn’t like

Kanye West accused adidas of plagiarism. What the brand’s main partner didn’t like

Does this mean that the legendary cooperation will stop?

In early June, adidas presented a new concept flip-flop adidas Adilette 22. Perhaps the novelty wouldn’t have attracted so much attention if it wasn’t for Kanye West’s plagiarism claim.

In his post (a few hours later the rapper deleted the publication), Kanye West addressed Casper Rorsted, the executive director of adidas: “This model embodies all the disrespect that those in power have for creators. These are fake Yeezy’s that are manufactured by adidas themselves. Casper, come to my place and we’ll discuss this.”

We’re talking about the Yeezy Slide flip-flops released back in 2019. The model immediately became ultra-popular. According to Bloomberg, in 2020, annual revenue from Yeezy shoe sales reached almost $ 1.7 billion.

The rapper began his address with one association, in which true connoisseurs of snicker culture could discern a hint of the difficulties in relations with the brand: Kanye wrote that he feels like Kobe Bryant. It can be assumed that this refers to the basketball player’s severing of his relationship with the German brand and switching to Nike in 2002.

I no longer intend to tolerate this blatant copying. I’m reaching out to members of snicker culture. To every player, rapper or just a sales assistant in a store. This is for everyone who wants to express themselves but won’t take risks because they’re afraid of getting fired or being called crazy. Courage is the absence of fear. Courage is the triumph of truth over fear. It is Ye with a face painted with blue paint.

Another interesting fact was the price of the Adilette 22. They will go on sale on June 23 at a price of $55. This is $5 cheaper than the Yeezy Slide. According to the brand, the design of the flip-flops was inspired by “3D terrain and human expeditions to Mars.” “Adilette flip-flops are made from natural and renewable materials as part of our commitment to utilize limited resources and help end plastic waste.”

To keep the focus on these lines, the brand opted for minimal branding, adorning the side with the brand’s signature shamrock and the words THE BRAND WITH THE THREE STRIPES. At this point, the brand has announced six colorways.

Later, Kanye West made another post (and deleted it again) related to adidas: he shared a screenshot of a text message outlining the terms of his contract with the brand. The rapper highlighted a clause that says he can create Yeezy apparel and shoes on his own, but not with a competitor. Could this mean we’re in for the launch of Yeezy’s own clothing line without the help of adidas? Pretty much.

Kanye West’s Yeezy brand began partnering with adidas in 2013, and the agreement runs through 2026. As part of the partnership, the artist retains 100% ownership of his brand and full creative control over all products produced.

The brand has not made any official statements regarding the rapper’s position.