Last Updated on 24th April 2023
The Adidas Stan Smith is a not just a classic tennis shoe, it’s one of the most iconic sneakers of all time. The shoe features a simple design; white leather upper, green lining, three perforated signature stripes on the side, an off-white rubber sole, and sports the signature Stan Smith logo.
Over the years, Adidas has released a variety of different versions of the shoe, including low-top, mid-top, and high-top models, and variations of both colour and material. The shoe remains popular today, and is seen as a timeless classic.
History Of The Adidas Stan Smith Shoe
The Adidas Stan Smith sneaker was originally created in 1963 as the “Robert Haillet” tennis shoe. It wasn’t until 1971 that Adidas signed American tennis player Stan Smith to endorse and wear the shoe, which led to its eventual rebranding as the “Stan Smith”. The trainers, sneakers or tennis shoe quickly became popular among tennis players and fashion enthusiasts.
Robert Haillet, French Tennis Player
Robert Haillet was a French tennis player who played professionally in the 1960s. He was known for his complete powerful serve and volley game, which helped him win several tournaments throughout his career. Robert reached the quarterfinals of both Wimbledon and the US Open in 1963.
Haillet’s success on the court caught the attention of Adidas, who approached him to design a signature tennis shoe. The result was the Adidas Robert Haillet, which featured a sleek white leather upper with green stripes and gold lettering. The shoe quickly became popular among tennis players, men, women, kids and fans alike.
Despite its popularity, Adidas discontinued the Robert Haillet model in 1971 due to poor sales. However, as a brand they would later revive it as the Stan Smith after signing American tennis player Stan Smith to an endorsement deal. Today, both models are highly sought after by sneaker collectors worldwide for their classic style and rich history within tennis culture.
The original tennis shoe has an image on the tongue of the man himself but recent reissues have not included that into their design. The shoe has also decided to update it’s manufacturing by using recycled polyester and rubber in its processes.
Its clean and minimalist design set the Stan Smith apart from other sneakers at the time. The all-white leather upper with green accents on the heel tab and tongue made for a simple yet stylish look that has stood the test of time. Additionally, Adidas incorporated their patented Three Stripes branding into perforations on each side of the shoe.
Who Was Stan Smith?
Stan Smith is undoubtedly one of the world’s most successful tennis players in history. He won a total of 39 singles titles and 61 doubles titles during his career, including two Grand Slam singles titles at the US Open in 1971 and Wimbledon in 1972. In addition to his individual successes, he also helped lead the United States Davis Cup team to victory twice.
Smith’s success on the court was due to his exceptional athleticism, touch, powerful serve, and strategic play style. He was known for his ability to read opponents’ moves and adjust accordingly, making him a formidable opponent on any surface. His skilful performances earned him a spot in the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987.
Despite retiring from the world of professional tennis over three decades ago, Stan Smith remains an icon both on and off the court. His legacy lives on through his signature shoe line with Adidas, which has become a cultural phenomenon across generations.
However, it’s safe to say that he could never have predicted just how iconic his namesake sneaker would become in pop culture history.
What Are They Made From
The Stan Smith sneaker has existed since the 1960s and is still popular today. One of the reasons for its longevity is its high-quality materials. The shoe’s upper part is made from leather, giving it a classic look and durability. Leather also allows your feet to breathe while providing support.
The sole of the Stan Smith sneaker is made from rubber, which provides excellent traction on all surfaces. Rubber also helps absorb shock when you walk or run, making these sneakers comfortable to wear for long periods. Some versions of the shoe have a thicker sole than others, depending on their intended use.
Another material used in some versions of the Stan Smith sneaker is suede. Suede adds texture to the shoe and can make it more stylish. It’s also durable but requires special care to keep clean and looking good over time. Whether you choose leather or suede versions of this iconic sneaker, you can be sure they will last for many years thanks to their quality construction and materials used in production!
Which Colourways Are Available
The Stan Smith sneaker has been a popular choice for many years, and one of the reasons for this is its availability in a wide range of colours. From classic white with green detailing to bold shades like pink and blue, there is something to suit every taste.
The classic white and green combination remains a firm favourite for those who prefer a more understated look. However, if you’re looking for something slightly different, why not opt for black or navy with contrasting white details? These latest versions are perfect for those who want to wear their collection of Stan Smiths with everything from jeans to dresses.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, then there are also plenty of bright and bold options available. From neon yellow to hot pink, this modern twist on the sneakers are sure to make a statement wherever you go. Whether you choose to pair them with an all-black outfit or use them as the focal point of your look, they are guaranteed to turn heads.
Are They Just Made Of Leather?
No, as they do come in other materials for the upper show including suede and canvas.
Suede is a popular choice for those who want to add texture to their footwear collection. It offers a softer feel than leather and adds depth to any outfit. The Stan Smith suede sneakers come in a range of colours, including navy blue, burgundy, and green.
Canvas is another material that has gained popularity over the years due to its durability and versatility. The canvas version of the Stan Smith comes in an array of colours ranging from black to bright pink. This material offers sustainable breathability, which makes it perfect for warmer weather or more active lifestyles.
Different materials allow customers to find their perfect match when it comes to style and comfort. Whether you prefer leather or something more textured like suede or canvas, there’s bound to be an option out there that suits your needs perfectly!
How Many Stan Smith’s Have Been Sold
The Stan Smith sneaker has been an iconic tennis shoe since its release in the 1960s. Over the years, it has become one of Adidas’ most popular sneakers and has sold over 22 million pairs worldwide.
The popularity of the Stan Smith can be attributed to its simple yet stylish design. It is a versatile shoe that can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for any occasion. Additionally, many celebrities and athletes have been spotted wearing them both on and off the court, adding to their appeal.
Despite being around for decades, the demand for Stan Smiths remains high today. Adidas continues to release new colourways and collaborations with designers and artists alike, ensuring this classic sneaker will remain relevant for years.
Celebrities Wearing Stan Smith
Celebrities have been spotted wearing the iconic Stan Smith sneakers on numerous occasions. These sneakers have become a staple in celebrity wardrobes, from fashion icons like Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner to musicians like Justin Timberlake and Pharrell Williams.
In 2014, Adidas collaborated with designer Raf Simons to create a limited edition version of the classic sneaker. The collaboration featured bold colours and unique designs that caught the attention of celebrities such as A$AP Rocky and Rita Ora.
The timeless style of the Stan Smiths has made them a popular trainers choice for both casual wear and red-carpet events. Their versatility has attracted many celebrities who appreciate their comfort, style, and understated elegance. Whether paired with jeans or dresses, these sneakers will make a statement wherever they go.
The Legacy Of The Stan Smith Sneaker
The Stan Smith kicks have left an indelible mark on the fashion and sports industry. It has undoubtedly transcended its original purpose as a tennis shoe and become a cultural icon that is recognized all over the world. The shoe’s simple design, with its clean lines and minimal branding, has made it a classic range that will always stay in style.
Another factor contributing to the legacy of this iconic shoe is its association with some of history’s greatest athletes and celebrities. From tennis legend Stan Smith himself to David Bowie and Pharrell Williams, countless icons have been spotted wearing these beautifully crafted sneakers throughout their careers. This has helped cement its status as one of the most recognizable trainers in history.
These sneakers’ impact and range on popular culture cannot be overstated. They have inspired countless imitations and collaborations over the years but remain unrivalled in their influence on fashion and sportswear. As long as there are people who appreciate simplicity, quality craftsmanship, colour, and timeless design elements in footwear, there will always be a place for Stan Smiths in our hearts (and wardrobe).
Style And Substance
It is with great pride that the Stan Smith is one of those fashion icons that is not a case of style over substance. A truly iconic tennis shoe, and fashion item that looks just as good as it performs. The true mark of great design has been encapsulated in this pair of trainers since their inception in 1963 and as with any streetwear icon, like the Chuck Taylor, The Air Jordans and the Puma Clyde it has stood the test of time both on and off the court.
