The adidas Stan Smith needs no introduction. A cultural phenomenon that transcended its tennis court origins, the Stan Smith has become a timeless symbol of minimalist style for over five decades. Now, adidas reimagines this legend for a new generation of urban explorers with the aptly named adidas VeloStan Smith.
The VeloStan Smith is meticulously crafted for the city cyclist. The key modification lies in the two-bolt cleat mount embedded discreetly within the midsole. This ingenious design allows seamless transitions between pedaling and navigating city streets, all without needing a shoe change. Avid cyclists will appreciate the compatibility with SPD clipless pedals, ensuring efficient power transfer during rides.
But the magic of the VeloStan Smith lies in its ability to excel beyond the bicycle. A rigid nylon plate, strategically placed within the synthetic sole, provides stiffness for optimal cycling but cleverly covers only the front two-thirds of the shoe. This allows for natural flex in the forefoot, ensuring a comfortable walking experience when dismounted.
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The upper stays true to the Stan Smith’s heritage, utilizing a luxurious full-grain leather that offers both durability and a touch of elegance. The iconic design elements – the green foam heel tab and the perforated three stripes – are faithfully preserved, ensuring instant brand recognition. As a special homage, the VeloStan Smith boasts a unique feature: a gold-embossed portrait of Stan Smith himself, astride his racing bike, adorns the tongue.
“It’s been very special to collaborate with Stan on this project,” says Kerryn Foster, Head of Specialist Sports at adidas. “The Stan Smith has transcended its original purpose, becoming a cultural icon. We understand that urban cyclists need flexibility, and the VeloStan Smith prioritizes this with a design that allows riders to explore their city in comfort and style.“
Stan Smith himself echoes this sentiment: “The Stan Smith journey began in 1978, and it’s been incredible to see adidas continuously reimagine it. This cycling-specific version is particularly exciting. As a cycling enthusiast, I believe these subtle yet impactful additions extend the shoe’s sporting legacy. By bringing the Stan Smith to the world of cycling, I hope it inspires more people to discover the joy and freedom of exploring their surroundings on two wheels.“
The adidas VeloStan Smith, available now for €140 in the classic white and green colorway, joins the Velosamba as the latest addition to the adidas Originals cycling collection.
