The Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 has transcended the realm of fashion and sportswear, becoming a symbol of street culture. Its cultural impact has significantly influenced how people dress, and brands design their products. The Yeezy 350's distinctive features, such as its Boost technology and sleek silhouette, have made it a favorite among sneaker enthusiasts worldwide. This iconic sneaker, part of Kanye West's Adidas Yeezy collection, has been a staple in the footwear industry since its debut. This guide will dive into the three iterations of the Adidas Yeezy 350 and highlight the best releases from each.
The partnership between Kanye West and Adidas began in November 2013. Before this, Kanye West had a deal with Nike, but he decided to switch due to Nike's refusal to pay him royalties on Yeezy sales. He broke the news of his new deal with Adidas on a New York City radio station, saying, "Nike told me, 'We can't give you royalties because you're not a professional athlete,'" West said on Hot 97. "I told them, 'I'll go to the Garden and play one-on-no-one.' I'm a performance athlete." This marked the beginning of a fruitful collaboration that would significantly influence the world of sneakers and fashion.
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350
The Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V1, the inaugural version of the sneaker, was launched in 2015, marking the debut of the “Turtle Dove” colorway. This model stood out from the norm, showcasing a distinct, clean design and a commitment to comfort. It deviated from the standard multi-layered construction of traditional sneakers, adopting a single-piece Primeknit upper design. Priced at $200 USD upon its launch, the shoe was an instant success due to its distinctive low-cut design and the innovative Boost technology.
The V1 model was celebrated for its minimalist design, emphasizing functionality and comfort. The sneaker featured a lightweight, cushioned Boost midsole for enhanced comfort and a streamlined, sleek design that diverged from traditional sneakers. The V1 model was only released in four colorways, with the debut “Turtle Dove” and “Pirate Black” colorways also being restocked after their initial debuts.
The Original Four
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 'Turtle Dove'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 'Pirate Black'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 'Moonrock'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 'Oxford Tan'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2
The Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2, launched in 2016 with the debut “Beluga” colorway, marked substantial advancements over the V1 model. This iteration brought more technical enhancements, incorporating increased Boost technology in the midsole for heightened support and comfort. The V2 model moved towards a more sock-like fit design, characterized by its higher cut Primeknit designed upper.
The V2 model became the most sought-after Adidas Yeezy model, with over 40 releases occurring within seven years. Adidas also introduced region-specific exclusive releases for the Yeezy 350 V2 model to cater to different markets. This strategy involved the launch of specific colorways in certain global regions.
Best Yeezy 350 V2 Colorways
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 'Beluga'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 'Zebra'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 'Bred'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 'Oreo'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 'Static Black'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 CMPCT
The Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 CMPCT, unveiled in 2021 at a price of $220 USD, marked the culmination of the Yeezy Boost 350 series. This model showcased a sportier and technically advanced design, featuring a lower, extended profile and a ribbed Primeknit collar that delivers a true sock-like fit. This silhouette combines elements from the first two iterations, adopting a lower-cut design reminiscent of the V1 while incorporating the midsole from the V2. Since its debut in 2021, the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 CMPCT has seen six colorways released.
Best Yeezy 350 V2 CMPCT Colorways
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 CMPCT 'Slate Carbon'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 CMPCT 'Panda'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 CMPCT 'Slate Red'
Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 CMPCT 'Slate Blue'
The Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 series has profoundly impacted the footwear industry, with each iteration introducing unique features and design elements that distinguish it from its competitors. The V1 model was a break from traditional sneakers, presenting a clean, minimalist design and a focus on comfort. The V2 model brought further enhancements with additional Boost technology and a higher cut. On the other hand, the V2 CMPCT model adopted a more athletic approach with its lower, longer profile and taller ribbed Primeknit collar.
Each iteration of the Yeezy Boost 350 has been a success, with the sneaker continuing to be popular due to its unique design, comfort, and ties to Kanye West. The Yeezy Boost 350 series has revolutionized the sneaker industry and left a lasting impact on the fashion industry as a whole.
