Introduced by adidas in 1969, the Superstar was originally designed as a low-top basketball shoe. Its most iconic design feature, the rubber shell toe, provided increased protection and durability, transforming basketball footwear. The Superstar saw a resurgence in the '80s and '90s, adopted by hip-hop culture, notably Run-D.M.C., who even penned a song about the shoe. Over the years, adidas Superstar has collaborated with a variety of designers, artists, and brands, such as Dime, BAPE, and Run-D.M.C., continuously updating its look while retaining its classic silhouette. The shoe's versatility and timeless design have firmly cemented its status as a fashion staple and cultural icon.
About the Brand
adidas was founded in 1949 by Adolf "Adi" Dassler in Herzogenaurach, Germany, after splitting from a family business he shared with his brother Rudolf, who went on to establish PUMA. The brand quickly gained recognition with its innovative footwear that helped the West German national team win the 1954 FIFA World Cup, offering better grip and performance on wet, slippery pitches. In the following decades, products like the Stan Smith, originally launched as a tennis shoe in the 1960s, and the Superstar, released in 1969, transitioned into widely-embraced, cultural staples. adidas's innovations, from the 1980s Torsion system to modern advancements like Boost cushioning and Primeknit uppers, demonstrate its commitment to advancing footwear technology and performance-driven design. Through partnerships with athletes like Lionel Messi and collaborations with artists and designers such as Kanye West and Pharrell Williams, adidas continues to be as a global leader in sportswear, combining innovation with lifestyle appeal.