The Ultimate adidas Stan Smith FAQ

The History of the adidas Stan Smith

Originally launched in 1965, the adidas Stan Smith is a classic tennis shoe first named after French tennis player Robert Haillet. It was later named after American tennis star Stan Smith, and is renowned for its clean, versatile design.

As most tennis shoes were made of canvas at the time, the all-leather upper of the sneaker was a groundbreaking innovation, offering more durability on the court.

When Haillet retired, adidas sought a new face for the shoe. This is where Stan Smith came in; the American tennis star was one of the top-ranked players in the world at the time, and a two-time Grand Slam singles champion, so was the perfect endorsement for the sneaker.

Although his endorsement began in the early 70s, it wasn’t until 1978 that the shoe was officially renamed the ‘adidas Stan Smith’. His portrait replaced Haillet’s on the tongue, and his name was also added to the side.

While originally designed as a performance tennis shoe, after Smith gradually dropped out of worldwide tennis in the 1980s, the sneaker began to transition into a lifestyle staple. Rappers like Lil Wayne, Rick Ross and Jay-Z turned the Stan Smith into a streetwear hit.

The clean and minimalist design of the adidas Stan Smith made it a versatile choice off the courts, and it quickly gained a life in casual fashion. Throughout the 90s and 00s, the model became a cult classic. Briefly pulled from the market in 2012, the sneaker was reintroduced in 2014 in a comeback that met renewed popularity, boosted by collaborations with celebrities like A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams and Raf Simons.

Today, the Stan Smith is available in countless different versions – from Primeknit uppers to weatherproof GORE-TEX version, to Velcro or laced closures, to cork footbeds or Boost-cushioned soles. Continually reimagined, it remains faithful to its minimalist roots. Its timeless design continues to be worn by all genders and generations.

adidas Stan Smith: Answering Your Questions

What’s special about the adidas Stan Smith?

Unlike most adidas shoes, the Stan Smith does not have the usual three stripes on the side – instead there are three rows of perforations on both sides of the shoe’s leather upper.

Can I run in adidas Stan Smith?

The Stan Smith, while more of a lifestyle sneaker these days, can still be used for basketball, tennis or similar sports, but they are not fit for running. They’re comfortable to wear, but there are more suitable shoes for long walks or being on your feet all day.

Why are Stan Smith’s so popular?

The minimalist design of the Stan Smith makes them versatile and easy to style with almost any outfit, while their premium leather upper, leather lining and cushioned sole provide exceptional comfort.

Are adidas Stan Smith unisex?

All adidas Stan Smith sneakers are unisex.

Do adidas Stan Smith fit true to size?

The Stan Smith is known to fit true to size, and you can comfortably purchase a pair in your usual size.

How do you tie the adidas Stan Smith?

For guidance on tying your Stan Smith laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!

How do you clean adidas Stan Smith?

An adidas Stan Smith should be cleaned by hand. For the best results, remove the laces, then use a toothbrush to remove obvious dirt from the surface. Mix a mild detergent with some water and use a sponge or cloth to gently scrub harder stains, or for suede, use a suede brush (water can damage suede). Use a damp cloth to wipe off the residue, then let them air-dry.

For a smelly sneaker, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe, then leave overnight. The powder will absorb moisture and neutralise the smell. Shake out the excess before wearing again. Alternatively, you can use silica gel or activated charcoal bags for the same results.

Laces can be cleaned with a mild detergent and rinsed afterwards, or you can put white laces in a 1:5 bleach and water solution for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

In addition, we do not recommend putting your shoes in the washing machine. Sneakers made of leather and suede can come out damaged. With shoes made of canvas or cotton, the risk is less, but the chance of damaged sneakers remains. So we recommend always washing your sneakers by hand. If you do put them in the washing machine, then place the shoes in an old pillowcase beforehand.

Where can I buy adidas Stan Smith?

Do you have your eye on this model? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse the adidas Stan Smith at different retailers and at different prices. Our release calendar also keeps you up to date on Stan Smith restocks and new releases!