adidas
adidas in short
adidas is a German sportswear brand founded in 1949 in Herzogenaurach, renowned worldwide for its signature three stripes. Its range is divided into Originals — retro lifestyle silhouettes such as the Samba, Gazelle, and Superstar — and Performance for running, football, and training. Retro styles often run narrow and small, while running shoes are best chosen slightly roomier.
Facts and background
| Topic | Key detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1949, Herzogenaurach (Germany) |
| Known for | Samba, Gazelle, Superstar, Stan Smith |
| Segments | Originals (lifestyle) and Performance (sport) |
| Price point | Broad: entry-level to premium |
| Signature | Three stripes, Trefoil logo |
The Trefoil logo belongs to Originals, whereas the triangular mountain badge signifies Performance. Those seeking a shoe for everyday wear usually gravitate towards Originals, while those putting in the miles or training will benefit more from the Performance collection.
Which adidas line suits you best
- Originals — retro silhouettes with a flat sole; casual and easy to style.
- Performance running — highly cushioned foam designed for running, not necessarily for standing all day.
- Terrex — outdoor and hiking, featuring reliable grip and waterproof options.
- Training and football — supportive outsoles or studs, tailored to specific playing surfaces.
Sizing and care
Retro models generally run narrow and on the smaller side; sizing up by half a size is a common choice for the Samba and Gazelle. Running shoes, on the other hand, should be bought slightly roomier as your feet naturally expand during runs.
- Dry brush suede and protect it with a water-repellent spray; avoid the washing machine.
- Leather designs: wipe clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, then allow to dry at room temperature.
- Rotate your pairs regularly to allow the midsole cushioning to recover.
Buying in the Netherlands
The brand is widely available across the Netherlands via flagship stores, specialist sports retailers, and department stores. When buying online, stick to authorised stockists: counterfeit versions of popular styles are prevalent, recognisable by sloppy stitching and inaccurate heel tabs. Brands.nl does not sell products directly.
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Frequently asked questions about adidas
- Where does adidas originate from?
- From Herzogenaurach, Germany. Adi Dassler founded the brand in 1949 following a split with his brother, who went on to establish PUMA.
- What is the difference between Originals and Performance?
- Originals is the lifestyle line featuring reissues of archival silhouettes, while Performance is dedicated to sport, engineered with discipline-specific cushioning and technical fabrics.
- Do adidas trainers run true to size?
- Retro styles such as the Samba and Gazelle run narrow and slightly small; for running shoes, you may want to go half a size up.
- Can adidas trainers be washed in the washing machine?
- It is best avoided. Dry brush suede, clean leather with a damp cloth, and always let trainers dry naturally at room temperature.
Geschreven door
Brands.nl editorial team
Brand editors — interior, fashion & lifestyle
Brands.nl is an independent Dutch brand guide that sells nothing itself. Our editors follow brands, materials and collections and describe them independently, so you know what you are buying and can find similar brands.
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Laatst inhoudelijk gecontroleerd: 29 augustus 2026