With a history stretching back decades, the adidas Originals sneaker archive is an impressive one. Though the brand continues to push things forward in terms of technology and design, it's not ashamed to celebrate its decorated past through remastered and upgraded versions, as well as re-released designs straight from the archive. And rightly so.
One period oft-lauded by fans of the German-born brand is the '90s. The decade that saw the introduction of the formerly-used Trefoil emblem played host to a wide range of silhouettes that still dominate the Three Stripe's output today. Below, we explore the retro kicks on offer right now, and step back to the '90s.
Shop our selection of '90s-inspired adidas Originals silhouettes below
Ozweego
The original Ozweego first hit the shelves in 1996, marketed as a lightweight running shoe for both training and competition wear. Through the '90s, several iterations of the Ozweego were dropped by adidas, with the silhouette earning a popular place in street culture. In 2013, Raf Simons revived the Ozweego with a version that had few ties to the original but paved the way for the embrace of the bulkier shoe. adidas Originals' own versions, as seen below, stay truer to Ozweego heritage, carrying the signature style of the 1998 Ozweego 3.
EQT Gazelle
The EQT Gazelle is a sneaker inspired by adidas' celebrated Equipment sports line of the early ’90s. Merging the original overlay detail of the 1999 Equipment Gazelle with modern technology, including an improved midsole, this model makes the silhouette fit for today while staying true to the retro aesthetic.
Tresc Run
Drawing inspiration from the designs of multiple adidas running shoes that were released during the 1990s, the Tresc silhouette combines vintage style with modern cushioning technology. The red, black, and silver colorway below is a sneaker that embodies the retro adidas running archive.
Yung-96
Unashamedly chunky, the Yung-96 celebrates the rebellious edge of the '90s as well as the decade's playful take on fashion. The all-black version below, perfect for the colder seasons, features overlays that reflect the Yung Chasm of '96, an archive adidas running shoe.
Temper Run
As above, the Temper Run is another silhouette that's heavily inspired by the runners of the '90s. This newly upgraded version has been revived to celebrate LGBTQ pride in a colorful aesthetic. Complete with pastel blue, pink, and yellow overlays, the spirit of the '90s is well and truly alive in this sneaker.
FYW S-97
In a silhouette that really embraces the bold and brash sportswear movement of the decade, the FYW S-97 is a wild sneaker that takes inspiration from the adidas "Salvation", which was first released in 1997. Keep the dad look going with the two FYW S-97 colorways below.
LXCON 94
A shoe that stays true to its retro roots, the LXCON 94 revives the same technical look, as well as the same mesh upper and suede stripes, of the original LXCON. The translucent tube around the lace opening is an authentic detail taken from the archive.
Torsion Comp
Another direct reissue, the Torsion Comp is inspired by tennis shoe tech of the 1990s. Coming in a vintage sports style colorway and look, the shoe below packs a cushioning system ready for the court, as well as perforations to allow better airflow. It also boasts the Torsion system, one of adidas' best innovations, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.
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