23 Jun 2025

Adidas x THE/STUDIO

1. About the Client

Adidas is a globally recognized leader in athletic performance and design, with a legacy that spans both competitive sports and cultural movements. Its commitment to innovation goes beyond footwear and apparel—Adidas consistently seeks out new ways to support athletes not only in performance but also in self-expression.

As part of its role in the Olympic Games, Adidas aimed to celebrate the diverse backgrounds of its global athlete roster while strengthening a sense of shared purpose. The brand approached THE/STUDIO with a unique concept: to create something small in form, yet rich in meaning—something that could spark connections and carry stories without words.

2. Client Needs

The challenge was to create a physical object that felt more symbolic than promotional. Adidas needed a custom item that athletes could receive as a mark of inclusion and pride—something crafted, intentional, and culturally aware.

This object needed to meet several criteria: it had to be highly portable, distinctive in appearance, and capable of carrying personal significance. More than anything, it needed to feel like it belonged in the emotional and ceremonial atmosphere of the Olympic experience.

3. Our Solution

We proposed a curated series of collectible enamel pins—small-scale designs that delivered big impact. Each pin was developed to capture a sense of identity, pride, and belonging. Some included names or flags; others leaned into visual storytelling through shape, symbolism, and subtle references to culture or heritage.

From concept refinement to materials selection, THE/STUDIO handled the full scope of development. We ensured precision across production, from enamel color matching to custom molds that preserved every design nuance.The result: premium-quality pins that balanced visual clarity with emotional depth.

Adidas received a tailored system of pins that could be handed out at key moments, forming a tactile thread between individual recognition and collective celebration.

4. Final Outcome

The pins became an integral feature of Adidas’ Olympic space—a curated environment designed for athletes to feel seen and welcomed. Every detail was carefully orchestrated to evoke significance, and the pins helped anchor those moments. Displayed, gifted, or kept close, they offered a tangible reminder of the values Adidas champions on the world stage: unity, authenticity, and excellence.

The experience created around these pins elevated them far beyond their physical form. They served not just as keepsakes, but as subtle tokens of identity and camaraderie.

5. Results

THE/STUDIO delivered a seamless production experience under a complex timeline, with precision logistics and quality control ensuring every pin matched Adidas’ high expectations. The partnership reinforced our ability to scale custom production while maintaining craftsmanship and storytelling.

For Adidas, the pins became a meaningful part of their Olympic narrative—silent, symbolic gestures that carried weight without needing explanation. The collaboration highlighted how thoughtfully designed objects can transform brief encounters into lasting memories.