Porsche Design by adidas ORIGINALS – 911 SC
A fusion of racing heritage and modern performance design.
Developed under Concept Director Jacques Chassaing for the Spring/Summer 2016 Porsche Design by adidas Originals collection.
Background & Objective Definition
The collaboration between adidas and Porsche Design has always been about uniting performance precision with luxury aesthetics and racing culture. For Spring/Summer 2016, the design brief was clear: translate the essence of the Porsche 911 SC Cabrio into a sneaker that speaks both to automotive enthusiasts and sneaker culture.
My role within Jacques Chassaing's team was to develop the concept and drive the design execution – balancing brand DNA, technical feasibility, and emotional storytelling. The 911 SC is not just a car; it's an icon of 1980s engineering and understated elegance. The challenge was to honor that legacy without replicating it.
Moodboard Porsche 911 SC
The design research began with analyzing the formal language of the 911 SC: its characteristic window angles, the interplay of hard and soft surfaces, the contrast between matte metal and glossy paint, the tactile quality of the vinyl convertible top.
These observations formed the foundation for a series of design analogies:
- TPU Overlay → Vinyl roof texture and structure
- Grid Pattern → Checkered racing flag meets window geometry
- Mesh Upper → Openness of the convertible cabin
- Reflective Heel Tape → Chrome details and light reflection
This method allowed us to create a product that feels connected to its automotive source without being literal. The result is a trainer that embodies the spirit of the 911 SC rather than mimicking its appearance.
Design Process
The design process unfolded in three phases: silhouette exploration, material translation, and technical refinement.
Phase 1: Form Studies
Early sketches focused on finding a silhouette that balanced aethletic look with refined elegance. The shoe needed to feel fast but not aggressive. Subtle. Confident.
First concept sketches for 911SC
Phase 2: Material Layering
The dual-layer TPU system became the signature element. Iterations tested different grid angles, spacing, and depth to achieve the right balance between visual complexity and structural clarity. The 3-Stripes branding was integrated subtly within the TPU layer, visible but not dominant.
Different concept renderings for concept refinement
Technical Construction
Construction Method
Welded TPU overlays ensure a clean, seamless aesthetic while providing structural support. Injection-molded components as highlights deliver precision and durability.
Production Reality
Series production for Spring/Summer 2016 required balancing design intent with manufacturing constraints. Material selection, tooling costs, and production timelines shaped final decisions but never compromised the design vision.
Pattern adjustments for upper construction with refined TPU design
Color Design & CMF Concept
Two colorways were developed, each telling a different story:
The CMF strategy emphasized contrast: matte versus gloss, hard versus soft, metal versus textile. Every material choice reinforced the automotive narrative while respecting the footwear category.
911 SC White-Green
911 SC Black-Red
Outcome
The 911 SC Trainer launched globally through adidas, Porsche Design and selected retailers (e.g. JD Sports) in Spring/Summer 2016. Both colorways reached full production readiness and commercial release.
911 SC White-Green
911 SC White-Green
Heel detail of 911SC
Lacing Detail of 911SC
Porsche Design by adidas ORIGINALS 911SC
Reflexion and Learnings
This project reinforced several principles that continue to shape my approach to footwear design:
The 911 SC Trainer represents a moment where automotive heritage, performance engineering, and contemporary design culture converged. It's a reminder that the best products don't just function well they mean something.