A History of adidas: From Humble Beginnings to Global Sportswear Giant

When you think sportswear, one of the first names that pops into your mind is probably adidas, right? If you are a fan of the Kolisi’s then you will definitely be up to date on the latest trends in adidas. But did you know that Adidas had humble origins in a small German town. The story of adidas is one of innovation, determination, and iconic design.

Let’s take a look at the fascinating journey of this legendary brand. If you already know the adidas story, skip to the good part and shop now!

The Early Years:

Adidas traces its roots back to the year 1924 when a young German shoemaker named Adolf “Adi” Dassler started crafting athletic shoes in his mother’s laundry room in Herzogenaurach, Bavaria. Adi’s passion for sports and his innovative approach to footwear design quickly gained attention among local athletes. One of those athletes was Lina Radke who won a gold medal in Amsterdam in 1928 wearing a pair of Adidas shoes.

The Birth of Adidas:

In 1949, Adi Dassler officially registered his company under the name “Adi Dassler adidas Sportschuhfabrik” and unveiled the iconic three-striped logo that would become synonymous with the brand. The name adidas is a portmanteau of Adi’s nickname and the first three letters of his last name.

Olympic Success and International Expansion:

The breakthrough moment for adidas came during the 1954 FIFA World Cup when the German national team, wearing Adidas cleats, secured a historic victory. This success catapulted adidas onto the international stage, leading to rapid expansion into new markets across Europe and beyond. In 1967 the company added apparel to their collection, with the tracksuit.

The founder, Adi Dassler, died in 1978 but left his growing empire to his wife and their son who have continued to grow and expand the brand.

Innovations and Endorsements:

Throughout the decades, adidas continued to push the boundaries of sportswear innovation. From the introduction of the first screw-in stud for soccer cleats to the development of lightweight running shoes, adidas consistently revolutionized athletic footwear. The brand also forged partnerships with elite athletes such as Jesse Owens, Muhammad Ali, and David Beckham, solidifying its reputation as a leader in sports marketing.

Cultural Icon:

Beyond the world of sports, Adidas became a cultural phenomenon, embraced by musicians, artists, and fashionistas alike. The iconic three stripes adorned everything from tracksuits to high-fashion collaborations, cementing adidas’ status as a symbol of style and street culture. Rachel Kolisi and her kids can be seen in Adidas apparel more often than not.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility:

In recent years, adidas has made significant strides in sustainability and social responsibility. The company has implemented initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint, such as using recycled materials in product manufacturing and investing in renewable energy sources. Additionally, adidas has prioritized fair labor practices and ethical sourcing throughout its supply chain. This is very important to me when it comes to clothing brands – are they taking positive, consistent steps to improve sustainability.

Looking Ahead:

As adidas looks to the future, the brand remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and empowering athletes of all levels to perform their best. With a rich history spanning nearly a century, Adidas continues to inspire and influence the world of sportswear, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of culture and fashion.

My Current Favourites

These are just a few of my current adidas favourites.

From its humble beginnings in a German laundry room to its current status as a global sportswear giant, the journey of adidas is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and perseverance. The adidas’ impact extends far beyond the realm of athletics, shaping the world of fashion, culture, and performance for generations to come.