The Adidas Stan Smith
From the Tennis Court to the Streets
The story starts in 1971 when Adidas was looking for a signature shoe for French tennis player Robert Haillet. The original model was named after him. However, when Haillet retired, Adidas needed a new ambassador. They found the perfect candidate in Stan Smith, a towering American tennis champion who was dominating the sport, winning Wimbledon and the US Open. In a strategic move, Adias rebranded the existing Haillet shoe, adding Stan's visage and name to the tongue. This partnership marked the beginning of an unprecedented success story. It was the first tennis shoe to be made entirely of leather, offering durability and a sleek look that was novel at the time.
Design Evolution and Cultural Impact
At its core, the design of the Adidas Stan Smith
A Timeless Wardrobe Staple
The shoe's appeal lies in its astonishing versatility. It can be paired with a sharp suit, casual jeans, or a summer dress with equal ease. Unlike many trendy items, the Stan Smith has never truly gone out of style. Adidas has cleverly managed its lifecycle, occasionally "killing" it by halting production, only to relaunch it to massive demand, reaffirming its status as a must-have item.
The sneaker has seen countless variations and collaborations over the decades, featuring different colours, materials, and patterns from designers like Pharrell Williams and Raf Simons. Yet, the classic white and green model remains the most coveted. Its design is a masterclass in timelessness, proving that simplicity often has the most significant impact.
Identifying genuine Adidas Stan Smithinformative product spreadsheet.
The Legacy Continues
Today, the Adidas Stan Smith