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NYC-based retailer WOODstack is partnering with adidas on a reimagined adistar Control 5. Dubbed “Blood Sweat, & Tears,” the sneakers spotlight the hustle of New York’s community members, sneaker culture, and the small businesses that drive the city daily.
The sneaker is equipped with a deep burgundy upper, representing the blood of those who continue to sacrifice the time, resources, and energy needed to succeed. Metallic accents symbolize difficult moments, as well as WOODstack’s metal gates that are opened each day. Underfoot, a soft pink sole represents the optimism and success that comes with hard work and resilience.
Created through adidas’ Business Track program in partnership with Detroit’s Pensole Lewis College of Business & Design, the collaborative sneaker draws from WOODstack’s beginnings in Brooklyn and its growing presence, while also celebrating the small family-owned businesses that New York City depends on.
For this launch, four NYC-based small businesses — Michaels of Brooklyn, The OMA Shop, Aunts et Uncles, and Bodega City — are receiving their well-deserved flowers, highlighting the love, time, and dedication it takes to build from the ground up. WOODstack will be hosting an in-store live pitch competition at its Flatbush location (1353 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11210), where one small business will win a $5,000 small business grant. The event will take place December 17th from 5-8pm and will feature live DJ sets, giveaways, bites by Bodega City, and surprise guests.
This past year, the adistar Control 5 has become a silhouette driven by storytelling and heart, centered around partnerships with Detroit-based retailer Puffer Reds and CLICKS founder Eric “Shake” James’.
The WOODstack x adidas adistar Control 5 “Blood, Sweat, & Tears” will be available on December 17th in limited quantities at all WOODstack locations and on woodstack.com. Check out the pair below.
WOODstack x adidas adistar Control 5 “Blood, Sweat, & Tears”
Release Date: December 17, 2025
Price: $120 USD
