Adidas AG, often recognized by its minimalist 'adidas' stylization since 1949, is more than just a brand. It is a rich tapestry of history, innovation, and ambition, deeply rooted in Herzogenaurach, Bavaria. As Europe's premier sportswear manufacturer and the second largest globally, only behind Nike, Adidas's legacy in the athletic domain is unparalleled.
The journey of Adidas is a testament to the vision of Adolf Dassler, who commenced his venture in the confines of his mother's home. In 1924, the enterprise, then named Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik or "Dassler Brothers Shoe Factory", gained momentum with the joining of his elder brother, Rudolf. Adolf, a visionary in the truest sense, revolutionized athletic footwear. He moved away from cumbersome metal spikes, introducing a fusion of canvas and rubber, catching the eye of U.S. sprinter Jesse Owens. Owens's choice of Dassler's spikes for the monumental 1936 Summer Olympics was a pivotal moment in Adidas's history.
Yet, the story took a dramatic turn in 1949 when the brothers' collaboration ended. Adolf went on to establish Adidas, while Rudolf introduced the world to its soon-to-be rival, Puma.
The three stripes, an emblem synonymous with Adidas, encapsulates its grand history. Acquired from Finnish sports company Karhu Sports in 1952, for an intriguing mix of €1,600 and two whiskey bottles, this design element transformed the brand's global identity. Dassler's proclamation of Adidas as "The three stripes company" solidifies its historical significance.