adidas Stan Smith: The Story Of A Footwear Icon
Few trainer designs have achieved the iconic status of the Adidas Stan Smith. Launched in 1965, it quickly gained prominence, not just as a top-performing tennis shoe but also as a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on fashion. Its minimalist design, characterised by the absence of the classic three stripes and the introduction of subtle perforations, has allowed it to transcend the boundaries of sportswear.

This article digs into the rich history, distinctive features, and lasting impact of the Adidas Stan Smith, exploring how it has remained a significant release in Adidas’ storied line-up and continues to influence the trainer industry today.
Adidas Stan Smith Historical Background
It’s an intriguing origin story that dates back to the mid-1960s. Initially, it wasn’t even named after the legendary tennis player. The shoe was first introduced in 1965 as the “Adidas Robert Haillet,” named after the French tennis star of that era. Designed primarily for tennis, the shoe featured a sleek leather upper, a rubber sole, and the innovative decision to replace the classic three stripes with subtle perforations for improved breathability.
In 1971, as Robert Haillet was nearing the end of his tennis career, Adidas needed a new face to represent the shoe. Enter Stan Smith, an American tennis player who was gaining popularity with his impressive performances on the court. Smith’s endorsement was a game-changer. By 1978, the shoe was officially rebranded as the “Adidas Stan Smith.”
Smith’s association with the shoe helped propel it to new heights. His success on the court, including winning Wimbledon and the US Open, gave the shoe immense visibility and credibility in tennis. It was a recognised performance shoe and a symbol of excellence in tennis.
As time passed, it transcended its original purpose, becoming a symbol of casual, understated style. Its clean design and versatile appeal made it a favourite among athletes and fashion enthusiasts.
From its humble beginnings on the tennis courts to its status as a global fashion icon, the tennis shoe has come a long way since 1965.
adidas Stan Smith Shoe Design and Features

The design is a masterclass in simplicity and functionality. From its inception, the shoe has maintained a minimalist aesthetic that sets it apart from other trainers. The most notable design feature is the absence of Adidas’ classic three stripes, replaced by understated perforations that enhance breathability and serve both an aesthetic and practical purpose.
The original featured a clean, white leather upper, which was quite revolutionary at the time. Most athletic shoes were made from canvas, but the leather construction provided greater durability and a sleek look. The shoe also included a simple rubber cup sole, offering excellent grip on tennis courts. Over the years, the design has remained largely unchanged, a testament to its timeless appeal.
Another distinctive element is the green heel tab, which adds a subtle pop of colour to the otherwise monochrome shoe. This small detail has become a signature feature, making the Stan Smith instantly recognisable. Additionally, the tongue of the shoe features a portrait of the man himself, along with his signature, further cementing the connection between the athlete and the footwear.
The versatility of this design is one of its strongest attributes. Its clean lines and neutral colour palette make it easy to pair with virtually any outfit. Whether worn with jeans, shorts, or even a suit, it exudes a casual yet sophisticated vibe. This adaptability has made it a favourite not only among tennis players, but also among fashion-forward individuals seeking a stylish yet understated shoe.
Special Editions
Over the years, Adidas has released numerous significant iterations and special editions of the Stan Smith, each contributing to its legacy. Here are some of the most noteworthy ones:
Stan Smith Forever
Launched in 2021, this collection marked a significant shift towards sustainability. The shoes are made with PRIMEGREEN, a series of high-performance recycled materials. The classic design is maintained, but the focus is on using recycled components to help end plastic waste. This includes white recycled rubber outsoles and planet Earth-inspired graphics, making these shoes both stylish and environmentally friendly – Adidas News.
Yohji Yamamoto Collaboration
This collaboration with Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto introduced a distinct take on the classic silhouette. The Stan Smith was reimagined in two colourways: one with a white leather upper and black accents, and another in a full black design. Both versions feature Yamamoto’s portrait and name, adding a high-fashion twist to the iconic sneaker – Adidas News.
50th Stanniversary Edition
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Stan Smith, Adidas released a special edition with unique design elements. This iteration features an all-white leather upper with cream midsoles and green accents. The most notable detail is Stan Smith’s gold-embossed handwritten signature on the insole, highlighting the shoe’s rich heritage – スニーカーダンク(スニダン) | 人気の新作スニーカーやトレカを安心売買.
Stan Smith Golf Shoe
This version adapts the classic design for the golf course. It includes features like a spikeless outsole for better traction, a die-cut PU sockliner, and additional cushioning for support. The shoe also incorporates recycled materials, aligning with Adidas’ sustainability efforts – Golf Monthly Magazine.
BAPE Collaborations
The collaboration with A Bathing Ape (BAPE) brought a streetwear edge to the Stan Smith. Known for its bold designs, BAPE’s iteration of the Stan Smith includes their signature ABC camo pattern, blending the sneaker’s minimalist style with vibrant streetwear aesthetics – Sneaker Freaker.
These iterations highlight how the Stan Smith continues to evolve while staying true to its classic design. Whether through sustainability initiatives, high-fashion collaborations, or adaptations for different sports, the Stan Smith remains a versatile and iconic sneaker in Adidas' line-up.
Stan Smith’s Cultural Impact

Stan Smith Shoes have left an indelible mark on both the sports and fashion worlds. Initially designed as tennis shoes, their influence has extended far beyond the tennis courts, making them cultural icons embraced by various generations and style tribes.
His success as a tennis player certainly contributed to the shoe’s early popularity, but their journey into the fashion world properly began in the 1980s, when people started wearing athletic shoes as everyday casual footwear. The minimalist design made them a natural fit for this trend, quickly becoming favourites among fashion enthusiasts.
Throughout the years, the tennis shoe has been seen on the feet of countless celebrities, fashion icons, and influencers. Its unassuming style has made it a blank canvas for various collaborations and customisations. High-profile collaborations with designers like Raf Simons and brands like Yohji Yamamoto and Pharrell Williams have reimagined the classic silhouette, introducing new colours, materials, and design elements while retaining the shoe’s core identity.
The cultural impact is exemplified by its presence in music, film, and art, with several notable figures and appearances highlighting its iconic status.
Music and Musicians:
- Kanye West: Renowned for his influence in both music and fashion, Kanye West has been spotted wearing Adidas Stan Smiths on multiple occasions. He often pairs them with a variety of outfits, from casual streetwear to more formal attire, showcasing the shoe’s versatility – Nice Kicks.
- David Bowie: The legendary musician David Bowie was photographed wearing Stan Smiths, which helped cement the sneaker’s cool and desirable status. Bowie’s choice of footwear added a layer of rockstar appeal to the classic tennis shoe – Film Threat.
Film:
- Harrison Ford in Blade Runner: The Stan Smith even made an appearance in the classic film “Blade Runner,” worn by Harrison Ford. This cameo highlighted the shoe’s futuristic yet timeless design, contributing to its iconic status in pop culture – Film Threat.
Art and Fashion:
- Pharrell Williams: Pharrell has not only worn Stan Smiths but has also collaborated with Adidas to create his own versions of the sneaker. His involvement brings an artistic touch and a modern twist to the classic design – Film Threat.
- Victoria Beckham: The former Spice Girl and fashion designer has been seen sporting Stan Smiths, pairing them with sleek, tailored outfits. Her endorsement underscores the shoe’s ability to blend seamlessly with high-fashion looks – KicksGuru.
The shoe’s simple, clean design has inspired other brands and designers to embrace minimalism, focusing on quality and subtlety over flashy logos and intricate patterns. It’s become a symbol of understated elegance, proving that less is often more.
Styling the Adidas Stan Smith

One of the standout features of the Adidas Stan Smith is its versatility. Its clean, minimalist design makes it an easy addition to a wide range of outfits, allowing it to fit seamlessly into both casual and semiformal wardrobes. Here are some tips on how to style it for various occasions.
Casual Outfits
For a laid-back, everyday look, it pairs perfectly with jeans and a T-shirt. The simplicity of the shoe complements denim, whether you prefer classic blue jeans or trendy distressed styles. Add a plain or graphic tee, and you have an effortless yet stylish outfit. During warmer months, swap the jeans for shorts. Chino shorts or denim cut-offs work well, maintaining a relaxed, summery vibe.
Smart Casual
The Stan Smith also shines in smart-casual ensembles. Pairing the shoes with chinos and a button-down shirt strikes a balance between polished and relaxed. Opt for neutral-coloured chinos like beige, navy, or grey to keep the look cohesive. For added sophistication, layer with a blazer or a lightweight jumper. This outfit is ideal for casual office settings or social gatherings where you want to look put together without being overly formal.
Athleisure
Embrace the athleisure trend by combining with joggers and a hoodie or sweatshirt. This look is both comfortable and stylish, perfect for running errands or a casual day out. Choose slim-fit joggers for a more streamlined silhouette, and consider adding a bomber jacket for an extra layer of style.
Semi-Formal
Surprisingly, it can also be dressed up for semiformal occasions. Pairing the shoes with a suit may sound unconventional, but it creates a modern, fashion-forward look. Stick to suits in classic colours like navy, charcoal, or black. The key is to ensure the suit is well-fitted and the rest of the outfit remains relatively simple. A crisp white dress shirt and a slim tie can complete this contemporary ensemble, making it suitable for events like cocktail parties or stylish dinner outings.
Women’s Styling
The Stan Smith is equally versatile for women. For a casual look, pair them with skinny jeans and a cosy jumper. For a more feminine touch, wear them with a skirt or dress. A denim jacket or trench coat can add an extra layer of style. The shoe’s clean lines and neutral colour make it easy to integrate into various outfits, from casual daywear to more polished evening looks.
The Adidas Stan Smith’s timeless design and neutral colour palette make it a wardrobe staple that can be styled in countless ways. Whether you’re aiming for a casual, smart-casual, or semiformal look, the Stan Smith adds a touch of effortless cool to any outfit.
Conclusion
Since its inception in 1965, this iconic shoe has transcended its origins as a high-performance tennis shoe to become a beloved staple in the fashion world. Its clean, understated design, characterised by the absence of the classic three stripes and the use of subtle perforations, has allowed it to remain relevant across decades of changing trends.
From the tennis courts to the streets, the Stan Smith Tennis Shoe has been embraced by athletes, celebrities, and fashion enthusiasts alike. Its association with the successful career of the man himself, along with its simple yet stylish aesthetic, has cemented its place in the annals of both sports and fashion history. Collaborations with renowned designers and brands have only served to enhance its appeal, introducing fresh takes on the classic silhouette while maintaining its core identity.
Its versatility is perhaps its most remarkable feature. Whether paired with jeans and a T-shirt, smart-casual chinos and a blazer, or even a suit, the shoe effortlessly complements a wide range of outfits. Its ability to adapt to different styles and settings has made it a favourite for both everyday wear and more formal occasions.
As we look to the future, it’s poised to continue its legacy as an icon of minimalist fashion. Its timeless design and broad appeal ensure that it will remain a go-to choice for those seeking a blend of comfort, style, and understated elegance. In a world where fashion trends come and go, the Stan Smith stands as a beacon of enduring style, proving that sometimes, less truly is more.