The adidas Originals Stan Smith gets the RS treatment
The adidas by Raf Simons Stan Smith is the most recent stop within the greater visual journey of the forever iconic model. It all started out early last year when the return of the shoe was announced.
Since then, the new iterations of the model have offered some consistent alternatives to the classic, to the icon itself. The Stan Smith is a shoe that even the casual sneakers fan sees every day.
Considering, it could be easy to miss on its real importance. Like most models, popular or those more under the radar, there is a story behind the classic shoe that adds emotional value.
A Brief Look at the history of the Stan Smith
It was originally released back in 1963 (if we consider the first ever tennis shoe by adidas). In fact, this model owes its very first name to Robert Haillet.
The late French tennis player was the first professional player connected with the silhouette (the official date of its release is often mentioned as 1965). Haillet was prominent enough to carry the new sneaker all on his own.
But, still, adidas goes on to make an interesting decision. However, and after Haillet decided to retire, the sportswear brand decided to find another endorser.
The label then enlists the shoe’s eventual namesake, American superstar Stan Smith. Not only did they successfully ink a world-famous champion to a sponsorship deal, they also earned some street cred in America after being a mainly Euro brand.
They may not have known it at the time, but adidas had also started on their road to fashion relevance. Frankly, that’s the very definition of irony. It was then, in 1971, that the “adidas Stan Smith” was officially presented.
Aesthetically, Smith was the classic tennis player of his time. His pictures often show a monochrome ensemble that borders on bland. Yet, the shoe now stands on a platform that includes other legendary fashion pieces.
Fast forward 40 years and enter the new Stan Smith interpretation with Raf Simons’ creative signature. Made with premium leather and with the unique RF branding on the side panels and heel counter, this version reveres the original and offers additional style.
Find the adidas by Raf Simons Stan Smith now at stores like END. Clothing. While you’re here, make sure to check out the adidas by Raf Simons Ozweego, another creation of the Belgian designer for adidas.