Adidas Forum SQ Trainer Launches in Core Black
Adidas Originals has unveiled the Forum SQ Trainer, a reimagined version of its 1984 court classic featuring a squared toe and deconstructed leather upper.
Adidas Originals has introduced the Forum SQ Trainer, a new take on its 1984 Forum basketball shoe. The first colorway, dubbed 'Core Black,' is set for release in Japan on September 25 with a retail price of ¥15,400, approximately $100 USD.
A Geometric Reshaping
The most dramatic change is the shoe's toe box. Adidas has flattened it into a squared, boxy profile. This new shape sits atop a sharply angled rubber cupsole. The cupsole wraps up around the upper's base, framing and reinforcing the blocky silhouette from every angle. It is a stark departure from the original model's rounded toe.
Deconstructed Leather Upper
Premium leather is used in a deconstructed construction for the upper. This treatment gives the shoe a rawer, more relaxed character compared to a traditional polished court finish. All branding is debossed directly into the leather. This tonal approach on the all-black shoe lets texture provide the visual interest. The result is a sneaker that reads as dress-adjacent rather than a standard heritage retro.
Technical Outsole Details
Underfoot, the shoe features a rugged cleated rubber outsole paired with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) elements. The cleated pattern offers a chunkier base and reliable traction. TPU adds structure to the sole unit. According to the source, this is a utilitarian touch that balances the upper's refinement with real-world toughness.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Name | adidas Forum SQ Trainer “Core Black” |
| Colorway | Core Black/Cream White/Core Black |
| SKU | KK3757 |
| MSRP | ¥15,400 JPY (approx. $100 USD) |
| Release Date | September 25 |
| Where to Buy | adidas Japan |
Heritage and Evolution
The Forum silhouette carries serious heritage, first launching in 1984 as a premium basketball shoe. Its high-top version was known for an X-shaped ankle strap. After years as a lifestyle staple, the model saw a resurgence in the 2020s, aided by collaborations with artist Bad Bunny. The SQ Trainer pushes that legacy into new territory. Squared toes have become prominent in designer footwear and menswear. Adidas is applying that proportion to one of its most recognizable court models. The brand positions the shoe as a bridge between traditional basketball roots and contemporary design, built for sharper, dressier outfits. The 'Core Black' colorway aims to establish the silhouette as a smart-casual option.
