This year, the Adidas superstar will celebrate its 50th anniversary. It was originally designed for basketball players in 1970. It has undergone a significant evolution to become one of the popular lifestyle models and fashion icons for sneakerheads around 15 years later.
When basketball shoes were initially introduced, they were made of canvas material which led to insufficient court grip and limited support. They would easily tear during sports activities. Adidas has recognized the need for crafted Basketball shoes and they introduced a basketball shoe entirely made of leather. Adidas equipped the shoe with herringbone traction on the sole and a protective shell on the toe area. Not only this shoe delivered high performance, but it also become a cultural icon thanks to its iconic three stripes.
Adidas is well-known as a German brand but in the late 20th century, it made a remarkable shift into the American market. First, they gained success by targeting prominent basketball players such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to wear their shoes. In the early 1980s, it was game-changing for Adida when the rap group Run-DMC emerged. At the time, Adidas superstars gained popularity in the neighborhoods of major US cities like New York. Wearing complete Adidas tracksuits with matching Adidas superstars became a trend. So that Run-DMC decided to wear what was trending when they started their rap careers. This partnership took the model’s popularity to the next level. in 1955, Run DMC n made a song called “My Adidas,” and they signed an endorsement deal with the company.
From this turning point, this silhouette obtained a level of respect that was never seen among sneakerheads. Adidas continued to release their originals and superstars and was embraced by celebrities like Jay-z and P Diddy. The current year, the superstar will be turning 50 – older than most sneaker enthusiasts. Adidas will be honoring this silhouette by releasing a collection including a 20/50 color scheme. This pair pays homage to the shoe’s 50 years of existence with its original white leather upper, while also celebrating the 20th anniversary of the sneaker store, through an orange panel discreetly placed on the shoe’s inner side.
The awaited summer drop of the superstar is the two Run-DMC editions. It is rumored that they will be available in black and white colors. While the Run-DMC branding is seen on the tongues, sides, and insoles. If you are a collector admiring its rich history or a wearer admiring its look.
Image Credit: Adidas