<a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/adidas” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>adidas has finally revealed its avatar-focused nft collection, <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/altsbyadidas” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>“Alts by Adidas” with 20,066 unique digital avatars.
The collection comes almost three years after the company's initial nft debut with “Into the Metaverse” and represents a new phase in Adidas' exploration of blockchain technology and web3 engagement.
While the release generated a lot of buzz, community reactions were divided, with some drawing comparisons to RTFKT's Clone x collection and others debating the artistic merits of the project.
What is ALTS by Adidas?
“ALTS by Adidas” is a collection of digital avatars designed to provide holders with virtual representations that align with their interests and identities.
Avatars are categorized into eight themes, or “ALT(er) Egos,” covering areas such as sports, music, fashion and gaming. With more than 250 unique features and 80 digital wearable devices, the collection combines Adidas' design heritage with customizable features for the web3 space.
nft holders can access their avatars through platforms like Magic Eden, where they can update the metadata to reveal the full designs. The collection aims to combine the Adidas brand with the flexibility of digital identity, while reflecting the lessons learned since its initial nft launch in 2021.
How did the community react to the revelation?
The launch of “ALTS by Adidas” has been welcomed <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/waleswoosh/status/1866529519634379057″ target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Mixed responses from the nft community. Fans have praised the technical details of the collection, highlighting the high level of definition and artistic refinement of the avatars.
However, <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/Carl_m101/status/1866538970282152297″ target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>others have pointed out similarities between “ALTS by Adidas” and RTFKT's Clone and some suggest that the designs lack originality. Concerns have also been raised about the use of ai in the creative process and whether Adidas is fully committed to long-term support of the project.
Skepticism about the brand's intentions has been fueled by recent events, such as Nike's decision to scale back the operations of its RTFKT division, raising broader concerns about the longevity of venture-backed nft projects.
What's next after Addidas?
Adidas' entry into the web3 space began in 2021 with the “Into the Metaverse” project, which combined digital assets with exclusive products and community-driven events. Since then, the company has experimented with token-based experiences, collaborations with other brands, and supporting emerging artists.
With “ALTS by Adidas,” the company has taken a more focused approach, prioritizing quality and community feedback in response to changing market conditions.
Looking ahead, Adidas plans to expand the usefulness of avatars, exploring possible integration with blockchain-based gaming platforms and virtual environments by 2025.