Adidas Originals is launching a new product: the “first Augmented Reality experience in footwear.” What’s this, you ask? Well, it’s a pair of old-school sneakers that double as a video game controller. That’s right. The company has invested millions in a pair of kicks that you hold in front of your webcam to play online video games. You actually talk into the shoe. The product debuts at Champs Sports Stores on the 15th, but it’s not the first attempt at merging technology and fashion. A couple other recent tech-cum-clothing ventures after the jump.
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’)Levi Limited Edition Redwire: The original jean met Apple’s star product in 2006 with a pair of pants with a “built in tech pack” meant to hold your IPod. Let’s just say there’s a reason why the trend didn’t catch on.
Noon Style Solar Bags: Not entirely impractical, these hand-dyed, leather purses from Chicago designers Jane Palmer and Mariaane Fairbanks harness the sun’s power to charge that cell. Similar products can be found, but Noon Style’s meticulous crafting and earthy aesthetic make there’s a standout.
Aeolia Cello Garment: A dress that doubles as a cello! This one hails from Scottish technology development agency, Aeolia, and is, unsurprisingly, currently on view at the MIT Media Lab.
CO2 Dress: Embroidery company Forster Rohner, diffus.dk, Alexandra Institute, and The Danish Design School teamed up to produce a “Pollution Sensing Dress” last month. The LED minimalist encrusted frock uses built-in lights to monitor C02 levels.
A video for the new Adidas:


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