The Legacy of Adidas
25 Jul 2025
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Adidas – A Brand That Makes History
Since its founding in 1949 by Adi Dassler, Adidas has significantly shaped the world of sports and fashion. With its three iconic stripes, Adidas is not only a symbol of performance, but also a firm part of vintage and streetwear culture. Old Adidas pieces from the 70s, 80s, and 90s in particular are experiencing a massive comeback today and are sought-after collector's items in the vintage market.
History of Adidas: From Herzogenaurach to Global Icon
Adidas was founded in 1949 in Herzogenaurach (a town near Nuremberg) – after the split between the Dassler brothers, Adi and Rudolf. This split resulted in two global brands: Adidas and Puma. The brothers' rivalry also shaped their hometown – Herzogenaurach was divided for decades: People either worked for Adidas or Puma, attended different clubs and shops. This division deeply shaped the city – long after the brothers' deaths.
Image: Adi Dassler with innovative screw-in stud, circa 1954 – Source: Adidas Archive
Important milestones
• 1954: The German national football team wins the World Cup wearing screw-stud shoes from Adidas – a turning point for the brand.
• 1967: The first piece of clothing from Adidas: the famous tracksuit in collaboration with footballer Franz Beckenbauer.
• 1970: Adidas becomes the official supplier of the Football World Cup – the "Telstar" ball becomes iconic. (The first ball in the now typical black and white pattern)
• 1986: Run DMC brings Adidas into hip-hop culture with the song "My Adidas" – streetwear is born.
These moments have not only made Adidas great, but have also anchored it deeply in vintage culture.
Old Adidas advertisement - Source: Adidas Archive
Why Vintage Adidas is so sought-after
Cult status & subculture:
Adidas was deeply rooted in old-school hip-hop, breakdancing, skating, and raves. Classics like the Adidas Superstar, the Samba, or the Campus stand for an era.
Timeless quality:
Vintage Adidas was "Made in France," "Made in Yugoslavia," or "Made in West Germany" – top-quality workmanship with character. Even decades later, many pieces are still wearable – not fast fashion, but durable classics.
Legendary Vintage Adidas Pieces and Their Market Value
• Adidas Superstar (1969):
From basketball shoe to hip-hop icon. Original models from the 70s/80s can cost up to €1,000 – especially with Shell-Toe premium leather.
• Adidas Tracksuits (1970s–90s):
Items with the old Trefoil logo or collaborations (e.g. Beckenbauer) are particularly sought after. Prices: €100–400 depending on condition and rarity.
• Adidas SL 72 (1972):
Developed for the Olympic Games in Munich. Vintage pairs from the 70s fetch €300–800, sometimes more.
• Adidas Equipment (90s):
The EQT look with color blocking and performance appeal is now a vintage cult object. Jackets and joggers are also sought-after.
The Future of Vintage Adidas
Driven by growing interest in sustainability, retro aesthetics, and secondhand fashion, Adidas is experiencing a strong comeback. Demand for original vintage pieces is continuously rising – especially through platforms like Vinted, Grailed, or Instagram. Adidas remains relevant through new archive releases and collaborations with designers – but the genuine OG pieces remain unique.