This Autumn, Pharrell Williams and adidas debut Hu, a collection of apparel and shoes that explores humanity and celebrates cultural diversity around the world. Hu represents Pharrell’s vision of connecting people through love, passion, energy, and color.

‘Hu is short for human – human being, human race, humankind,’ said Pharrell. ‘But Hu, itself is also a reference to color. As human beings, we all have a color. We all look different, we all speak different languages, but we’re all connected.’

Building on the limited-edition NMD that launched in July, Pharrell and adidas return with a diverse range of full-color footwear. Celebrating a spirit of equality, acceptance, co-existence and understanding, the collection features flags, stripes, and translations of the phrase “Human Race” in English, French, and Japanese. Pharrell sums up the collection’s message simply: ‘I play for the human race.’

With the launch of Hu, Pharrell looks to shine a spotlight on communities around the world, sharing stories and traditions of humanity. In this first collection Native Americans from North Dakota invited Pharrell into their community to share their stories of compassion and culture, carrying on traditions of language, prayer, celebration and knowledge from one generation to the next.

‘I am so thankful to the people of MHA Nation who shared their journey and experiences with me. I want to use my platform for people to tell their stories and help empower people no matter where they’re from. By understanding humanity’s past, we will build a bridge to its future.’ Pharrell Williams

Footwear from the Hu collection follows the precedent set by the yellow NMD trainer debuted in July 2016, but now offers 5 new colorways: scarlet, black, sharp blue, green, and tangerine. The shoes feature adidas Primeknit™ uppers, energy-returning white adidas Boost™ midsoles, and a breakthrough lacing system in which laces are woven through the stabilizer of the shoe’s cage, offering both support and freedom.

The shoe also boasts an internal toe cap for a unique shape and a new modernized curved collar. Each color is printed with its own split slogan, such as “Hu Race,” “Human Species,” or “Hue Man.” Instantly eye-catching with their bold visual language, these pieces form the foundation of the adidas Originals = PHARRELL WILLIAMS wardrobe for the coming season.