The Supernova Rise 3 Adaptive, Adidas’ first high-performance running shoes for people with disabilities, have been awarded the Grand Prix of Innovation at Cannes Lions 2026. “Supernova Adaptive”, by TBWACanada for Adidas, takes the top award in the section, which joins two Gold Lions, one in Health & Wellness and the other in Design; and a Silver Lion in Entertainment for Sport.
The section, launched in 2013, recognizes innovation, technology and ideas that solve problems and transform imagination into real impact. Over the years it has celebrated a wide range of work, from pioneering digital tools and the creative use of technology to groundbreaking product innovations and experiential campaigns. In 2024 the category was updated to put more focus on social, environmental and financial innovation, as well as product and brand innovation.
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The jury highlighted the work of Adidas, characterized by innovation in design, the solution to a real problem and a collaborative approach. “We awarded the Grand Prize to ‘Supernova Adaptive not only because Adidas created a shoe, but because it expanded the possibilities of running for people with Down syndrome and drove progress in society. In the age of AI, creating is easier than ever, but creating change is not.”commented Kazuhiro Shimura, Executive Creative Director of Dentsu Japan, and president of the category jury.
After years of research and development that led to six prototypes, the brand launched its first specific sports shoe for people with Down Syndrome in March 2026. With this, it meets the specific needs of the anatomy of the feet and reduces or avoids the pain that many people with disabilities experience when doing sports with conventional shoes.
As explained by Adidas at the time, the Supernova Rise 3 Adaptive offer the comfort, support and fit of the Supernova range, although with adaptive modifications that facilitate placement, adjustment and use during the race. It includes, among other things, a reformulated foam that prioritizes comfort and softness, a reinforced and easy-entry heel, or a lacing system that reduces pressure by moving the laces away from sensitive areas.
It also features tactile elements and prints designed for athletes with visual or sensory needs; heel and tongue loops with magnetic closure, and a wide forefoot design to allow the toes to spread naturally.
To design them, Adidas has collaborated with the talent agency Gamut Management to obtain valuable information from people with various disabilities; as well as with Chris Nikic, the first person with Down Syndrome to complete an Ironman race, and whom Adidas sponsored in 2023.
Adidas assures that the shoes align with their commitment to offering the best equipment to all types of athletes, and they consider that the Supernova Rise 3 Adaptive facilitate access to running, sports and the benefits of an active life for millions of people with disabilities. The development of the new product is part of its overall strategy around creating equitable products for the entire running community, and promoting adaptive performance.
“We believe that sport has the power to change lives, and our role is to make running more accessible and enjoyable for all athletes.“; commented Patrick Nava, Global General Manager of Adidas Running, at the time of the shoe’s launch. “We have dedicated countless hours to listening and innovating with adapted athletes and people with disabilities to create a shoe that responds to the real needs of a diverse population.”.
The Supernova Rise 3 Adaptive were officially launched on the market worldwide on March 21, World Down Syndrome Day, on the brand’s website, app and selected stores. According to data shared by the brand with Cannes Lions, 42% of buyers in the online store in the United States were new customers.
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More info.: Innovation Winners at Cannes Lions 2026
