310
18 days ago
Did Adidas Quietly Drop the Best Black Sneaker It’s Ever Made?
Summary
If it’s disingenuous to call this the best new sneaker Adidas sells, that’s only because the design dates back half a century.
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If it’s disingenuous to call the BW Army the best new shoe in Adidas’s repertoire, that’s only because it’s isn’t quite new.
Initially made for the West German Army half a century ago, the design reappeared in 2025 with a long overdue reissue courtesy of the brand’s Originals division.
But it would take a collaboration with the Whitaker Group (TWG) to really rediscover the model’s true might.
Available exclusively at TWG’s respective sub-brands — including A Ma Maniére, Social Status and APB — the BW Army gets a subtle suede redux that enters the race for best black sneaker in Adidas history.
Like the mainline BW Army, the shoe trades the signature three stripes for leather overlays that extend around the toe box.
However, the material mashup brings an added touch of sophistication to what was already one of the sleekest designs from the German sportswear giant.
To preserve the tonal look, the model also features black laces and a stamped logo motif on the heel, while the classic gum sole keeps it grounded.
The words “BW-Sport 265” on the outsole replace the Adidas logo as an authentic flourish that separates the model from shoes like the Samba.
Available now at retailers under the TWG umbrella, the black suede BW Army costs $120, staying in line pricing on Adidas’s own website.
The model is also joined by a cracked-leather variant, as well as green and tan.
Jack Seemer is the executive editor at Gear Patrol, with over a decade of experience in product journalism. He currently reports on a wide range of topics, including footwear, watches, EDC, cookware and more.
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Founded in 2007, Gear Patrol is the definitive buying guide for enthusiasts. Our independent experts test the best in cars, tech, home, outdoors, style and watches. We combine hands-on testing, decades of experience and original photography to craft reports, reviews and guides. Why? Because we believe everyone deserves the best product.
Work with our award-winning creative services studio and advertising agency to bring your brand or product story to life. Learn more.
© 2026 GPS Media - Guides, Products, Services | For Life's Pursuits™
If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more
If it’s disingenuous to call the BW Army the best new shoe in Adidas’s repertoire, that’s only because it’s isn’t quite new.
Initially made for the West German Army half a century ago, the design reappeared in 2025 with a long overdue reissue courtesy of the brand’s Originals division.
But it would take a collaboration with the Whitaker Group (TWG) to really rediscover the model’s true might.
Available exclusively at TWG’s respective sub-brands — including A Ma Maniére, Social Status and APB — the BW Army gets a subtle suede redux that enters the race for best black sneaker in Adidas history.
Like the mainline BW Army, the shoe trades the signature three stripes for leather overlays that extend around the toe box.
However, the material mashup brings an added touch of sophistication to what was already one of the sleekest designs from the German sportswear giant.
To preserve the tonal look, the model also features black laces and a stamped logo motif on the heel, while the classic gum sole keeps it grounded.
The words “BW-Sport 265” on the outsole replace the Adidas logo as an authentic flourish that separates the model from shoes like the Samba.
Available now at retailers under the TWG umbrella, the black suede BW Army costs $120, staying in line pricing on Adidas’s own website.
The model is also joined by a cracked-leather variant, as well as green and tan.
Jack Seemer is the executive editor at Gear Patrol, with over a decade of experience in product journalism. He currently reports on a wide range of topics, including footwear, watches, EDC, cookware and more.
Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.
Founded in 2007, Gear Patrol is the definitive buying guide for enthusiasts. Our independent experts test the best in cars, tech, home, outdoors, style and watches. We combine hands-on testing, decades of experience and original photography to craft reports, reviews and guides. Why? Because we believe everyone deserves the best product.
Work with our award-winning creative services studio and advertising agency to bring your brand or product story to life. Learn more.
© 2026 GPS Media - Guides, Products, Services | For Life's Pursuits™
AI Description
The article discusses Adidas's reissue of the BW Army sneaker, originally designed for the West German Army half a century ago. The reissue by Adidas's Originals division in 2025 highlights the sneaker's enduring design.