You're Probably Going To Want the New Adidas Prada Sneaker

For some time, Prada (as in that Prada) has outfitted the Luna Rossa team: a bunch of strapping Italian lads that "heave hoooooo" across a body of open water in a bid to lift the America's Cup. It's a holy trinity sponsorship deal that also involves the likes of Pirelli (as in the tyres) and Panerai (as in the watches). Now, though, there's a new crew member, and it's in the form of Prada crossover with Adidas.

NUREG GmbH

Introducing: the A+P Luna Rossa 21. Taking point from the new AC75 Luna Rossa team boat, it's a functional trainer first and foremost. This is built for the actual sailors. Thus, it's very technical. The upper is created using 'primegreen' – a durable, hard-wearing material made of high-performance recycled materials – which is further reinforced by a hydrophobic outer shell and ergonomic design. It's about as functional as you'll get in a modern sneaker, from a perforated boost midsole for better movement (an Adidas signature) to laces specially designed to prevent knots.

We can assume that you're not partaking in one of the toughest sailing competitions that ever did exist. That's absolutely OK. But the A+P Luna Rossa 21 isn't just for sporting elites. In an age when trainers are becoming increasingly function-focused (think about the big trail runner trend), Prada's latest venture with Adidas doesn't exist in a vacuum. There's buzz here. Perhaps even a small army of sneakerheads with an automated homepage refresh mechanism on the day of launch. Because, ultimately, Prada and Adidas have enough brand pull alone. In conjunction, it's a heady aroma – and when the fruits of such a marriage tap into the enduring trainer du jour, well, then maybe, just maybe, you're on a smooth voyage to the mythical isle of hype grails.

Available from 9 December at prada.com and adidas.co.uk, priced £490