Say the word 'trainers' to most people in the UK and one name follows closely behind: adidas..
Founded in Germany by Adolf Dassler in 1949, the brand with the three stripes has become one of the best known and most loved trainer brands on these shores.
While adidas (always with a small ‘a’, don't you know) make superb performance-based sports trainers, this guide is strictly for casual wear only...
This past year has been all about the reissue of the adidas Continental 80 – the brand’s take on the indoor shoes which were popular in the 1980s. It’s a corner of the market usually dominated by Reebok, but adidas have made a huge effort with this heritage model, releasing a number of colourways and collaborations which add to the timeless shape.
Fans of ‘90s nostalgia and adidas trainers will be all over this release. A far chunkier shape than adidas Originals have been known for previously, this is for the fashion-forward adi-heads. Be warned, though - the dad shoe trend stops looking cool when you actually become a dad.
adidas Gazelle
Pros
Versatile
Classic shape
Comes in suede and leather, in plenty of colourways
Arguably the best-known and most-loved adidas trainer of all time, the Gazelle has been at the forefront of culture since its release as a running shoe in the ‘60s. From Britpop to hip hop, Mick Jagger to The Jacksons, it has found its place time and time again – the embodiment of timeless style.
For those looking for a versatile everyday adidas trainer, you won’t go far wrong with the adidas Stan Smith. Its stripped back tennis-inspired design gave birth to generations of similar models which are still being released to this day. They go with pretty much any outfit you can think of - even suits. Every wardrobe needs a pair.
A recent favourite, the adidas Deerupt takes comfort and fit to a new level, combining sleek design with innovative technologies. The shoe is based on the long-distance running trainers of the 1970s and comes in a range of colourways, with a unique mesh netting covering the shoe’s upper.
