Initially designed to secure winning shots on basketball courts and football pitches, the iconic adidas Trefoil logo existed exclusively within the realm of sports. But since its genesis in 1949, the iconic brand has undergone an undeniable cultural transformation beyond sports, shifting to the forefront of fashion and culture at large.
Much of this cultural metamorphosis is credited to the creative trailblazers who have rocked the signature adidas kicks in diverse fields — whether it be music, fashion, or art at large. As a token of gratitude, adidas is paying homage to the cultural pioneers who have breathed new life into their iconic kicks.
In their new global brand platform titled “We Gave the World an Original. You Gave Us a Thousand Back,” adidas is spotlighting 17 originals in their own right who have diversified the brand with their Midas touch. Sported by these phenomenal talents, the iconic adidas shoes have transformed into ubiquitous social statements beyond the world of sports.
Who are the icons showcased in adidas’ new global platform?
Twins Hadban, sporting the Superstar silhouette
The Superstar silhouette depicts the inspiring story of Twins Hadban. The trailblazing Emirati influencers have opened the door for aspiring content creators in the region, becoming cultural originals in their own right. Initially worn on basketball courts, the classic leather shoes rose to stardom following their emergence within the Hip Hop community.
Noura Bin Saidan and Andria Tayeh, sporting the Gazelle silhouette
Representing the iconic Gazelle sneaker are none other than Noura Bin Saidan, the first Saudi female Mural Artist, and renowned Actress Andria Tayeh. Each a creative trailblazer, Noura and Andria have paved the way for their fellow artists in their respective fields. The Gazelle was originally designed as a trainer — and it has since established itself as a timeless sneaker in the realm of art and fashion.
Ali Al Kalthami, sporting the Samba silhouette
Distinguished Saudi Filmmaker Ali Al Kalthami tells the story behind the majestic Samba silhouette. Initially popularized in soccer, adidas recounts that “the shoe’s low-profile silhouette and gum sole have since become synonymous with subverting trends across the globe.”
Additionally, each of the three iconic Hero sneakers features partners, collaborators, and friends of the brand who have contributed to the cultural expansion of the Trefoil — including Amal Bin Haider, Asma ElBadawi, Junaynah, Waqar Abdelhameed, Misbah Chowdhury, Tarek Roumie, Sarah Al Hashmi, Khayal, Faithguy, Mohammed Bajbaa, Cascou, and Okasha.
Masterfully shot by Chndy, Cheb Moha, and Kais, adidas’ new global platform honours each of these phenomenal talents’ relationship with the brand’s three Hero sneakers.
Three sneakers, yet over a thousand originals. “We Gave the World an Original. You Gave Us a Thousand Back” is adidas’ thank-you gift to the diverse cultural pioneers who have redefined their brand, one iconic story at a time.