Adidas Reveals ALTS NFT Collection Nearly 3 Years After Initial Mint

Adidas has finally revealed its avatar-focused NFT collection, “ALTS by Adidas,” featuring 20,066 unique digital avatars.

The collection arrives nearly 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.

Whilst the release has generated significant buzz, community reactions have been 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 digital avatar collection designed to provide holders with virtual representations that align with their interests and identities.

The avatars are categorized into eight themes, or “ALT[er] Egos,” covering areas such as sports, music, fashion, and gaming. With over 250 unique traits and 80 digital wearables, the collection blends Adidas’ design heritage with customizable features for the web3 space.

NFT holders can access their avatars through platforms like Magic Eden, where they can refresh metadata to reveal the full designs. The collection aims to combine Adidas’ branding with the flexibility of digital identity, whilst also reflecting lessons learned since its initial NFT launch in 2021.

How did the community reacted to the reveal?

The launch of “ALTS by Adidas” has been met with mixed responses from the NFT community. Supporters have praised the collection’s technical details, noting the high level of definition and artistic refinement in the avatars.

However, others have pointed out similarities between “ALTS by Adidas” and RTFKT’s Clone X avatars, with some suggesting 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 for the project.

Skepticism about the brand’s intentions has been fueled by recent developments, such as Nike’s decision to scale back operations for its RTFKT division, raising broader concerns about the longevity of corporate-backed NFT projects.

What’s next to Addidas?

Adidas’ entry into the web3 space began in 2021 with the “Into the Metaverse” project, which combined digital assets with exclusive merchandise and community-driven events. Since then, the company has experimented with token-gated experiences, collaborations with other brands, and support for emerging artists.

With “ALTS by Adidas,” the company has adopted a more focused approach, prioritizing quality and community feedback in response to evolving market conditions.

Looking forward, Adidas plans to expand the avatars’ utility, exploring potential integration with blockchain-based gaming platforms and virtual environments by 2025.