17 best Adidas Stan Smith sneakers

Adidas Stan Smith sneakers

As one of the sneaker brands which dominate the industry, it is unsurprising that Adidas has produced some of the most iconic and most popular models. After all, the brand wouldn't reach its current success if the pieces it produced are forgettable.

Peering at its history, Adidas has released great designs, ranging from low-top to high-top shoes, delving into performance and athletic footwear, and utilizing different colorways possible. Among its favorite releases, or as a more accurate term, the most popular version from the brand, is the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers.

Its ubiquity came as a surprise to many. Comparing the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers to other tennis-inspired shoes, its design does not seem to fall far from the tree. Like most of the standard tennis shoes, it sports a white leather upper and rubber outsoles. What sets these apart from the others, albeit done in a very minimal manner, is its signature green speckles on the heel and tongue and the stamp of the namesake's face. Keeping consistent on the simplicity of the design, the brand's signature Three Stripes are traded off with three lines of perforations.

During the release of the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers, many paid attention to its uniqueness because it is the first leather tennis shoe ever made. This material stands out from the sea of canvas-clad footwear that reigns the market. More than the given oomph on its design, leather adds to its durability to its construction.

The legend begins

The 60s and the 70s holds a sweet spot for tennis. Because of this, it is only understandable that brands like Adidas, who are consistently on top of their game, capitalize on this. The famed sneaker that we now know was designed by Horst Dassler, son of founder Adi Dassler in 1963. Not a lot knows this, but the sneaker was named Robert Haillet first, after a French professional tennis player. During the time of launch of the shoe, the athlete retired, making it nonsense to release a shoe named after him. Adidas found the successor in Stan Smith, one of the most exceptional athletes. Since then, his name and face became attached to the shoe, and the rest is history.

The legend returns

Even though its popularity was sustained much longer than expected, Adidas had to stop its production in 2011.  Unexpectedly, the shoe was experiencing an overall decline in sales. Despite many disappointed fans, most of which expressed it on social media platforms, the decision was made.

Come 2014, just when fans and sneakerheads expected that Adidas Stan Smith sneakers could only be found on underground platforms, the brand made one of the best moves in the sneaker world. The time couldn't be more advantageous as it marks the shoes' 50th anniversary. Matching it with new and improved materials and the right marketing strategies, the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers returned. The brand used the power of the social media to post campaigns and advertisements, strategic to reach the younger market who are not aware of the shoes' rich history and the man behind the shoe. They also collaborated with artists and retailers and produced limited edition kicks to increase the buzz and keep the market excited. Indeed, the Stan Smiths prove that absence makes the heart grow fonder.

What makes it so popular?

Surpassing the sales of the all of the technologically-infused sneakers, it is a mystery for many as to what makes Adidas Stan Smith sneakers awarded by the Guinness Book of World Records the best-selling sneakers in 1988. Below are some of the reasons why:

1. The style of the Adidas Stan Smiths is versatile.

Since the sneaker was initially made for tennis, the style fits the seemingly snobby and exclusive tennis club fashion. Its pristine white leather upper and low-top construction translates significantly on its style flexibility and how it can be worn from court to streets. Transforming as a lifestyle sneaker, there is no need for the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers to have a style muse because it magically transforms and pairs well with any outfit, a sneaker chameleon if you must say.

2. Celebrities played a massive role in its resurgence and popularity.

The return of the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers only made the already great sneaker, more exceptional. Seeing them being worn by music, runway, and fashion icons, made such a significant impact on its popularity and return of sales. One of the most notable Stan Smith appearances was made by Phoebe Philo when she took a bow on the Celine runway wearing the famous white sneaker. It not only made the ordinary sneaker high fashion but it also sparked the return of the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers. Other well-known stars spotted wearing these were Kanye West and Pharell, who eventually partnered with the brand for his rendition of the Stan Smiths.

3. One can easily justify that it is value for money.

If the value for money can be put into a formula, the amount of wear should be factored in along with the amount of the product. If this is the case for the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers, then many consumers can attest its worth. The OG Stan Smiths are usually priced at $75, a reasonably affordable price to pay for a timeless, durable, and versatile footwear.

4. The rise of the athleisure trend also gave rise to its popularity.

The Adidas Stan Smith sneakers came out as performance footwear but found greater success in the lifestyle arena, thanks to the athleisure trend. Even before the term was conceived, the shoe was prevalently worn in the casual scene. The sporty casual trend only made the already favorite sneaker omnipresent.

5. There's a Stan Smith pair for everyone.

The popularity and ubiquity of the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers may come as an advantage and disadvantage. While some are ready to jump into the tennis sneaker trend, some are not fans of wearing a piece that can be seen everywhere. With the many versions released by the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers, one, whether jumping on the trend or not, can find one that suits their liking.

6. Its history proves that its design is timeless.

Before the spurt of the minimalist sneaker trend, the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers have already it, intentionally or accidentally.  For more than 40 years of existence, it shows that people from different generations, whether familiar with the man behind the shoe, can appreciate these.

Best Adidas Stan Smith sneakers variations

For a piece to stay relevant up until now, it has to undergo different changes to keep its market excited and have something to look forward to. Over the years, there were different transitions that the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers went through. Some of which are as follows:

Stan Smith Adicolor

Adicolor was a concept that was initially released in 1983. It featured fresh white sneakers and a set of colorful felt-tip pens. It gives users the freedom to customize the shoe in whatever way to suit their liking. The Adicolor may have a different concept now than from 30 years ago, but the intent of injecting different colors is still maintained. Here are some of the highlights of the sneakers:

• One of the most attention-grabbing features of these sneakers is the use of rich hues.
• The DNA of the sneaker, like the low-top silhouette and the design on the tongue, is retained.
• Unlike the OG Stan Smith, the Adicolor does not have perforations on the side.

Stan Smith Leather Sock

Released in Spring 2017 is the Stan Smith Leather.  Although at first glance it sports a similar look to the original, except for being all white, looking at each detail shows that some tweaks were actually made. The sneaker strips each of the elements which results in a luxurious but muted sneaker. Some of the sneaker's qualities include:

• The Stan Smith Leather Sock is a deconstructed version which comes in a monochromatic colorway giving it a more minimalist appeal.
• It has a futuristic interpretation with the use of a one-piece soft Nubuck upper matched with unfinished edges.
• The heel and tongue are also constructed with the same material as the upper.

Stan Smith Primeknit

The OG Adidas Stan Smith sneakers prove that despite having minimal changes, it can still be a success despite decades after its release. The Primeknit version of the Stan Smith demonstrates another point that when it comes to this sneaker, everything is possible. It illustrates that it is possible for the old to meet the new. Read below to know more:

• The Stan Smith PK makes the old silhouette meet modern tech.
• The iconic favorite is clad in a Primeknit upper, making it more comfortable because of its adaptive fit.
• This material is more flexible and more lightweight compared to the most broken in leather upper.

Stan Smith Boost

Do not let the vintage low-top silhouette make you think that it can't be made over using today's technologies. The added advancement literally gives the sneaker a boost.. Following are more information about this version:

• The Boost is the brand's most responsive cushioning system.
• The sole gives an exciting accent by providing texture to the overall look of the shoe.
• Most of the elements of the shoe—the stark white upper, the green heel logo, and the tongue label, are kept intact.

Stan Smith CF

Who says Velcro straps are only for kids? Kids and kids at heart can surely rejoice and enjoy this pair. Those who want to jump on the Stan Smith bandwagon but hate to wear what everyone is wearing can achieve that with this shoe. Here are some points to know more about this version:

The Stan Smith CF, as an alternative to the traditional lace-up closure, sports three Velcro straps.

Aside from giving the sneaker a unique look, the Velcro straps provide convenience to its users.

Stan Smith Recon

If there's a deluxe version for the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers, it will probably be the Recon. More details about this version are as follows:

• Users can undoubtedly feel luxurious wearing these because of its all-leather upper, tongue, and lining.
• The opulent material is matched with the highest-quality craftsmanship and stitching.
• The Stan Smith Recon is accentuated with some gold details on the sneakers' tongue. The gold detailing for the branding on the tongue of this sneaker adds more appeal to the shoe and offers a vintage finish.

Stan Smith Mid

All this time, fans are used to the idea that the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers come only in a low-top profile. This model though confirms that the model is not defined solely for its construction. More so, it is also a living proof that the brand is able to push the model into different levels.

• The mid-top form of the Stan Smith enhances its support and comfort.
• Other Stan Smith details seen on the OG are retained, including the green heel and perforated sides.

Stan Smith versions that will surprise fans

Based on the look of the Stan Smiths alone, fans usually have an idea of what it looks like. These versions display looks that may give the fans puzzling looks. Below are some of the rendition that will puzzle the fans:

Stan Smith American Dad

If the term match-made in heaven had to be epitomized, this sneaker had to be it. Who would've thought that a Stan Smith x Stan Smith is possible? American Dad and Adidas fans can surely have a lightbulb moment seeing this collaboration as both the cartoon character and the shoe model meshed perfectly with this sneaker. One may be deceived that this interpretation is the same as the original version as everything remained the same. The only difference is that American Dad Stan Smith houses the tongue.

Stan Smith UP

If the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers get injected by estrogen, it's going to be this version. The flair of a wedge merged with the look of the sneaker creates a distinct look. The mid-top construction gives additional support while retaining the casual sporty look that the Stan Smiths exude. It also gives the ladies the needed boost of height without compromising comfort.

Stan Smith Millennium

At first glance, these shoes don't exactly look like Stan Smiths because of its bold silhouette. The Y2K upgrade goes on the more maximalist route, making it look more like a performance sneaker than the now casual looking shoe. Comfort is not compromised feature with this pair as it is injected with EVA midsole.

Stan Smith 80s Mid "Star Wars Imperial Guard"

Looking at the shoe will certainly make one regard, "Is this a Stan Smith?" Since this version looks far off from the original, it is only understandable. This sneaker was launched in collaboration with Star Wars. It dons a mid-top construction and an all-red colorway, reminiscent of the Imperial Guard. The character's badge is also displayed on the tongue.

Stan Smith "Happy 420"

This skate-ready reiteration is in collaboration with retailer BAIT. The upper is composed of heat-pressed natural hemp with a stoned-out pattern all over. The hairy chunk suede used on the heel mimics the texture of cannabis buds. The heel tab and tongue, on the other hand, contains pharmacy prescription labels in reference to medical marijuana.

Most notable collaborations

The Adidas Stan Smith sneakers genuinely have transformed throughout the years. Aside from its other versions, from only the small to the most complex changes whether on looks, technologies, and construction, the iconic shoe is also notorious for its collaborations. Below are some of the most unforgettable ones:

mita sneakers

Mita sneakers is also a recurrent collaborator of the brand. After the unbeaten run for the 2016's SEEULATER release, the Tokyo brand returns with another collaboration. Here are some of the details regarding the partnership:

It is titled "Cages & Coordinates," which represents two of the shoes included in the collection--the Stan Smith and NMD TS1 PK.

The Stan Smith version comes in a black colorway with a premium leather upper and a contrasting white rubber outsole.

Some of the elements added are the zippers on the side panels, black heel tabs, white texts on the side and tongue.

Porter

In the world of retail companies, alliances seem to be a better and more successful route than treating each one competition. Both the best on their leagues, Adidas and Japanese luggage company Yoshida Co. Ltd. came as one in bringing a new spin on a classic favorite. Here are some of the highlights:

The Porter x Adidas Stan Smith was in celebration of the former's 80th year of anniversary.

The collection comes in two versatile colorways—black and blue.

Both of which come in a leather and nubuck upper with Porter's signature orange accent.

Staying consistent with the brand's signature, the tongue and vamp of the sneaker contained Tanker material and completed with a white rubber outsole.

The tag on the tongue replaces Stan Smith's face with a Porter bell hop logo.

Pharrell

Seemingly turning every venture he tackles into a success, Pharrell, more than being a musician is known for his keen eye in fashion. Not a first-time collaborator with Adidas and with Stan Smith, the artist released several collections on his rework for this minimalist sneaker. Below are some of the most remarkable ones:

Pharrell x Stan Smith Icons Pack

• Released in Fall 2017, Pharrell released this collection along with the Tennis Hu Icons Pack. Hu is the artist's line, which is the shortened version for "Human."
• The collection ensures that its wearer will stand out from the muted and dark fall environment because of its wide range of colorways.
• The colorways include Tactile Rose, Icey Blue, and Linen Green. These colorful hues sit atop a white rubber outsole.

Pharrell x Adidas Stan Smith Small Polka Dot

• Know then when you're wearing a shoe that has a Pharrell, flair on it, you will surely stand out. These Stan Smith sneakers grab attention because of its vibrant patterns and colors. 
• It is available in three colorways—blue, white, and yellow, all clad in red dots.

Pharell x Stan Smith Mid Jacquard

• These shoes are clad in an intricate vintage floral pattern in a mid-top Adidas Stan Smith sneakers.
• It has a woven Jacquard construction, and it comes in two colorways—Midnight Blue and Off-White Cream.

Y-3

Having his sub-line with the brand, Yohji Yamamoto is no stranger to Adidas. His influential and avant-garde designs capture the attention of both minimalist and maximalists who want to make a statement. True to style, the designer puts unexpected twists on the familiar silhouettes.

Y's by Yohji Yamamoto

In commemoration of the return of the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers, Y-3 released a collaborative piece. Although the blueprint of the shoe was used, Yamamoto injected much of his flair on the trainer.

• The upper of the shoe comes in a thick navy canvas material. The heel tab, toe box, and tongue come in smooth white leather.
• Instead of the perforated Three Stripes, the designer replaced it with hand-stitched zig-zag embroidery.
• The stitching is left deliberately unfinished as the threads are left hanging the midsole.
• The tongue of the shoe has an oversized Y's logo.

Y's by Yohji Yamamoto "Diagonal"

Collaboration sneakers come as a delight to many because it gives a chance for fans to see the shoes from a different perspective. Now we've seen the Stan Smiths is almost all of the colorways possible, on different materials, and different constructions, but Yamamoto was able to capture another way on how to interpret the shoe. Read the points to know more:

• The designer puts an avant-garde but subtle spin by making the laces and eyestay on a diagonal position.
• These are available in blue and white colorways. Both of which have brown overlays on the heel.

Y3 Stan Zip

Yamamoto injects Y-3 stamp on the iconic Adidas Stan Smith sneakers by using a heat-pressed construction on the two-piece upper, which results to a clean finish.

• To make its users wear it with or without laces, it has a zip-off eyestay.

The shoes are infused with Poron technology, a dependable, flexible, and breathable cushioning for comfort and long-lasting performance.

Raf Simons

A fashion designer himself who garnered the reputation of combining streetwear and high-street, Raf Simons is extraordinaire when it comes to Adidas collaborations. For his Adidas Stan Smith sneakers interpretation, the designer, despite retaining some of the parts intact, elevates the style of iconic sneakers into another level by injecting his style elements. Though each collection stands out from another, it is guaranteed that every piece has an injected luxe on it. Some of the most distinct features that can be seen are:

• Instead of the Three Stripe perforations, it sports an "R" on the side panels.
• Raf Simons makes use of the original Stan Smith silhouette and the Comfort Badge.
• Stan Smith's face on the tongue gets replaced by Raf Simons face.

Supreme

One of the most sought-after brands in the industry today is Supreme. Its attention-grabbing releases and ingenuity make it one of the most coveted partners of different sneaker companies, including Adidas.

• The Supreme x Adidas Stan Smith sneakers are amongst the creation of Sydney Kay customs.
• It dons an all-black upper with a hand-painted "By Any Means Necessary" text on its side panels, as inspired by the recent Supreme x North Face collaboration.
• Sneakerheads will surely flock for a pair gave that this extremely limited-edition sneaks will only come in 10 pairs.

Fun facts about Adidas Stan Smith sneakers

• Although Stan Smith's concern was more on the performance of the shoe rather than the aesthetics, he suggested using blue instead of green as it is a more popular color.
• Most of his career, Stan Smith was seen sporting the low-top Adidas Stan Smiths. However, now that he has retired, his go-to sneaker is the Adidas Stan Smith Millennium.
• The Adidas Stan Smith sneakers are the first leather tennis shoes.
• Despite looking older now, the face on the tongue remained the same throughout its history.
• Stan Smith suggested some of the details on the shoe— the addition of the tab on the tongue to keep the laces from sliding off and additional heel support.
• Once in a while, the athlete goes to stores to buy a pair and uses his own money to pay.
• The recorded collector who has the most number of Adidas Stan Smith sneakers is reported to have more than 200 pairs, more pairs that the Stan Smith himself.
• More than 30 million kicks were sold over the past four decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Stan Smiths unisex?

Versatility is a word that is easily thrown, but when it comes to the Adidas Stan Smith, it points out to different perspectives. Aside from coming in unisex sizes, the style of the shoe is also fitting for both sexes.

How do you clean and prolong the life of Adidas Stan Smith sneakers?

For a sneaker that is composed of 90% white, it can be intimidating and quite an effort to keep it clean and to maintain its quality. Following these steps can help one with the process:

• Spot-cleaning can be done for small stains. A stain remover should do the trick.
• To thoroughly clean the shoe, a dish soap, warm water, a washcloth, and a toothbrush are the materials needed.
• Scrub the shoe gently. The toothbrush should take care of the nook and crannies.
• Pat the shoe dry with a towel and let it air dry after.
• A waterproof spray will also help extend its life.

What is the controversy between Skechers and Adidas regarding Stan Smith?

Because of how distinct the design elements of the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers are, it cannot be denied when another and copies it. Skechers Onix used similar aspects on the sneakers—the all-white upper, green heel logo, and perforations on the sides all seem too similar. Because of this, Adidas brought the case to the courts in 2015.

In 2018, approximately two years after, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals released a preliminary injunction, barring Skechers from marketing Skechers Onix because of its high similarity with the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers.

Can the Adidas Stan Smith shoes still be used for tennis?

Since its conception, the qualities and aesthetics of the Stan Smiths remained unchanged. The style may have kept up with the modern times, but sad to say, its features did not. Currently, there are much more suitable pairs in the market, those that are specifically created to handle all the running and smashing on the court. The Stan Smiths currently is categorized as a casual sneaker.

Should I wear these shoes with or without socks?

How one prefers the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers is really up to the user. Although socks can be used for a purpose or style, wearing these without socks are also possible. It should also be noted that because of the leather lining, some might experience issues with odor. Putting powder after every use can be one of the solutions in order to prevent this problem.

What is the price range of Adidas Stan Smith shoes?

The price of the Adidas Stan Smith Sneakers varies on the retailer and the model.  The Adidas website offers the Stan Smiths for $75. Those with different materials like those injected with Primeknit and Boost technologies garner a higher price point compared to the OG. Collaboration and limited-edition pieces usually run the priciest.

How do you style Adidas Stan Smith sneakers?

Styling these are always up to its wearer. However, those who are clueless can still take advantage of the minimalist silhouette of the sneaker. It makes almost anything pair well with the sneaker, from casual and formal wear. For casual wear, users can replicate the off-cam street style of Gigi Hadid, Taylor Swift, Kendall Jenner, Jamie Dornan, Kanye West, and David Beckham who are all often seen sporting the shoe. Those wanting to take it up a notch can also wear pair these with formal wear. Take cues from Martin King, Adidas' North America president who sported an all-white number and the Adidas Stan Smith sneakers.

Do Stan Smiths fit true to size?

The Adidas Stan Smith sneakers is a unisex sneaker, much like the other models under the Adidas Originals. On the brand's website, the sizes available run from 4.5-20. Women wanting to cop a pair can simply go 1.5 size down to get their ideal fit. Since most of the users feedback note that they are true to size, future Stan Smith purchasers shouldn't have a problem with its sizing.

How can one detect real from fake Stan Smiths?

For omnipresent footwear, it can be unavoidable that replica models seep through the market. Those who can't avail of a sneaker on the brand's site and other reputable footwear retailers can take a look at these tips to avoid getting ripped off.

• The price should serve as an indicator. Prices way below the Standard Retail Price should mean that it is fake.
• The packaging should show signs of authenticity. The original Adidas Stan Smith sneakers should come in a blue box which shows details like color, country of manufacture, the model in all caps, international sizes, and barcode.
• The tongue should also have Stan Smith's face, name (in uppercase letters), and signature.
• The branding of the shoe can be seen on the sides, with the Adidas text and trefoil logo, and the text Stan Smith in lowercase letters and the trefoil logo on the heel.

Where can I buy Adidas Stan Smith casual sneakers?

For a popular item, it shouldn't be difficult to find these in the brand and brick-and-mortar stores. For shoppers who want to make use of the convenience of shopping online, it is recommended to order from Adidas.com and other reputable footwear retailers to avoid getting counterfeit models.

Author

Danny McLoughlin

Danny is a sneakerhead turned sneaker industry expert that believes a good outfit begins from the feet up. His aunt currently isn't speaking to him for wearing a pair of kicks at his cousin's wedding. He spends most of his time trying to keep on top of the latest releases, hitting up his contacts and doing what needs to be done to secure his next pickup. Danny has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Washington Post, The Irish Times, Footwear News and the like.

daniel@runrepeat.com