Header: Courtesy of adidas
Bad Bunny and adidas Originals are continuing their creative partnership with a new sneaker that brings a unique piece of Puerto Rico to the rest of the world. The Gazelle “Cabo Rojo” is the latest shoe from the collaboration, offering a design deeply connected to the artist’s home island. It is part of a larger collection that celebrates the places that shaped Benito.
A love letter to the island
The new sneaker is one of three models in the Gazelle City Series, a collection born from Bad Bunny’s affection for his homeland. This series acts as a tribute to the island, with each color choice representing a specific, meaningful location. The project is tied to the feeling of “No me quiero ir de aquí,” or “I don’t want to leave here,” a sentiment that has guided Bad Bunny’s recent work, including his 30-show residency at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico.
While the “Cabo Rojo” is getting a global release, two other sneakers in the series, “El Yunque” and “Santurce,” were launched exclusively in Puerto Rico. The “El Yunque” model features deep green tones that reflect the island’s famous tropical rainforest. The “Santurce” version comes in a vivid orange, representing the neighborhood known for its lively arts and music scene. These two remain available only on the island, keeping them as a special nod to the local community.
Design inspired by a natural wonder
The Gazelle “Cabo Rojo” stands out with its vibrant pink color. This specific shade was chosen to honor the famous salt flats in the town of Cabo Rojo. The area is known for a rare natural event where the water turns pink. This color change is caused by tiny salt-loving microorganisms that live in the water. The shoe is built on the adidas Gazelle Indoor silhouette and carries this story in its design. The final product is a wearable piece of Puerto Rican geography.
A story for all generations
To introduce the “Cabo Rojo” shoe, the campaign features a cast of elders from Puerto Rico. By having the keepers of the island’s stories and history wear the sneaker, the project connects the modern design to a deeper cultural heritage. It reinforces the idea that the shoe is more than just footwear; it is an expression of place and pride. adidas Originals, as a sponsor of Bad Bunny’s residency, continues to support the artist’s strong connection to his home. The Gazelle “Cabo Rojo” is available worldwide from July 26th for $140 USD.
