adidas launches official Cape Town Marathon range as Major ambition gathers pace

By Adnaan Mohamed

The countdown to the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has accelerated with adidas unveiling its official race merchandise collection ahead of the event’s latest push toward Abbott World Marathon Major status.

Inspired by Cape Town’s running culture and coastal identity, the range blends performance apparel with bold African-inspired design. The collection features Dusky Petrol and Lucid Aquamarine colourways, complemented by gold detailing symbolising the marathon’s growing global ambition.

The range includes technical race jackets, training T-shirts, caps, visors and the latest version of the adizero Boston 13 running shoe.

The Boston 13 features adidas’ Lightstrike Pro midsole and energy rod system, alongside a uniquely African print design created specifically for the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

The collection is available online and at selected adidas stores nationwide.

“Every year the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon takes a stride forward with regards to its scale and stature. This race is unique as it is distinctly African symbol of community, culture, and world-class running,” said Tom Brown.

“This collection allows runners and supporters alike to celebrate this special moment as Cape Town continues its push toward becoming Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major.

As part of the build-up to race weekend, adidas will also host a marathon activation at the historic Union Castle Building square at the V&A Waterfront from 16 to 24 May.

The pop-up hub will stock official marathon merchandise and serve as a gathering point for runners through a series of daily events and community activities.

Among the scheduled events are long runs, recovery sessions, taper runs and shakeout runs, alongside product customisation opportunities. A DHL Stormers signing session is also planned for 19 May.

Runners preparing for race weekend will also have access to pre-race hair and nail services, while finishers can return with their medals for free engraving after the event.

The activation is aimed at creating a race-week atmosphere for local and international runners visiting Cape Town ahead of one of Africa’s flagship road running events.

adidas runs with Purpose at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

By Adnaan Mohamed

As runners lace up for the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, adidas is urging them to do more than chase finish lines, it’s inviting them to run for change.

At this year’s Marathon Expo at DHL Stadium, adidas is unveiling its official Sanlam Cape Town Marathon collection.

It’s featherlight, fast, and fashioned for champions chasing the clock. The range including race tees, singlets, jackets, and the new Adizero Boston 13 shoes. is “built for athletes chasing limits and breaking records,” the brand says.

Beating the Odds, One Bead at a Time

But this year, adidas is adding something even more meaningful to the starting line: purpose, threaded bead by bead.

Handmade limited-edition beaded bracelets

Two limited-edition beaded bracelets, designed in the marathon’s official hues will be on sale, with 100% of proceeds going to the Kolisi Foundation to support gender equity and GBV survivor programmes.

Each bracelet is handmade by survivors of gender-based violence at the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women & Children in Manenberg, in collaboration with Cape Town jewellery brand Black Betty Design.

“Sport has the power to unite and inspire, but it also has the responsibility to drive change,” said Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas South Africa.

“By wearing this bracelet on race day, every runner and supporter becomes part of a movement to combat GBV in South Africa.”

Each bracelet carries a story as rich as the marathon itself. The limited-edition design weaves Red Turquoise, symbolising courage and empowerment, with Fossil Stone, a marker of endurance and transformation.

The race-colour version blends Yellow Agate, for positivity and clarity, with Blue Turquoise, the stone of balance and healing.

Like marathoners pounding the road with grit and grace, every bead is a testament to resilience. It’s a small, shining step in a greater race for dignity and equality.

So as the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo opens from 16–18 October at DHL Stadium, adidas invites runners to gear up, not only in style, but in solidarity.

The official marathon range and bracelets will be available exclusively at the adidas stand, select stores, adidas.co.za, and the adidas app.