adidas Superstar

The adidas Originals Superstar shoes initially released all the way back in 1969 as a unisex low-top athletic sneaker that borrows the DNA from the adidas Pro Model OG basketball shoes. It was designed with a rubber shell toe up front that gained the attention of many on the basketball court for its extra toe protection, and not long after its introduction, the adidas Superstar effortlessly slipped as a mainstay in the sneaker rotations of legendary basketball players from the NBA, notably Kareem Abdul-Jabbar who was on the starting lineup of Milwaukee Bucks.

As with most sneakers these recent years, celebrity endorsements is one of the main factors that causes the silhouette's hype level to pop off, particularly Pharrell Williams being the Three Stripe brand's long-term partner. From the debut of his adidas Superstar Supercolour Pack all way to the on-going adidas Originals NMD Hu series, the American global music superstar's participation is unquestionably the sportswear giant's key element to success. However, long before the superstar sneaker made its way to the hands of Pharrell and sneakerheads, it was the focus of attention in hip-hop culture in the '80s. It was heavily promoted by Run-DMC, a hip-hop group founded by Joseph Simmons, Darryl McDaniels, and Jason Mizzell in Queens, New York. A little while after, adidas reached out to the legendary trio inviting them to officially sign their contract, which also marked the brand's first-ever endorsement deal with music artists. A clothing line that consisted of t-shirts, hoodies, jackets and accessories then followed after to celebrate the duo's official collaboration.

A pair of kicks with so much history behind untold, the Superstars wouldn't be in the streetwear scene now if it wasn't for all those aforementioned story. Widely loved for its iconic shell up front, the Superstar is traditionally crafted with a full-grain leather upper accompanied with signature three stripes in core black accents on the sidewalls and Trefoil logos on the tongue, insoles heel alike. A thick midsole unit houses the uppers and lined with a durable rubber sole that featured a herringbone pattern underfoot that provides extreme grip and traction on all surfaces.

Throughout the years, the trainers have had retro releases, such as the Superstar 80s which flaunts improved and deluxe materials, such as supple suede, patent leather and much more. Of course, it also surfaced in various colorways and themes, and served as a blank canvas for high-profile collaborations with the likes of renowned Japanese streetwear label A Bathing Ape, multinational record label adidas Superstar, and many other influential names.

If you're looking to pick up a pair, make sure you check out our adidas Superstar Size Guide for all the best tips on sizing and styling.

Shop all of the latest adidas Superstar here alongside additional silhouettes including the Gazelle, Ultra Boost, Continental 80, NMD, Stan Smith, Ozweego, and much more!