The History Behind Iconic Sneakers: A Journey Through Time

Sneakers have changed a lot over the years. They started as shoes for athletes and now are popular worldwide for many different reasons. Let’s explore the interesting history of some famous sneakers.

The 1900s: The Beginning of Sneakers

Sneakers began in the 18th century with the invention of Plimsolls. These shoes had rubber soles and were made for seaside use. The rubber soles made them comfortable and easy to move in, unlike the stiff shoes of that time.

1917: The Rise of Keds

Plimsolls were popular among young people in the early 1900s. In 1917, Keds were mass-produced and became a competitor to Plimsolls. Keds had canvas tops and rubber soles, making them practical and comfortable. Henry Nelson McKinney, an ad company worker, called these shoes “sneakers” because their rubber soles were quiet.

Early 1920s: The Converse Revolution

Marquis Mills founded Converse in 1908 in Massachusetts. In 1917, Converse introduced its first basketball shoes, which later became the modern Converse All-Star, or Chuck Taylor All-Star. The name came after Chuck Taylor, a basketball player, joined Converse and suggested design improvements in 1923. This made Converse All-Star the first celebrity-endorsed sports shoe.

Early 1930s: The Birth of adidas

Adolf Dassler founded adidas and created a modern running shoe in 1925. In 1936, Olympic gold medalist Jesse Owens wore Dassler’s shoes, bringing them worldwide attention.

1940-1950: The Emergence of Puma

In 1949, Rudolf Dassler left adidas and started Puma. In 1952, he created the “Super Atom,” a football boot with screw-in studs. Puma’s football boots quickly became popular among German players.

1960s: The Foundation of Nike

Blue Ribbon Sports, the precursor to Nike, was founded in 1964 by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman in Oregon. They initially sold Onitsuka Tiger shoes in the U.S. In 1966, Bowerman designed the TG-24 with Onitsuka Tiger, later renamed Cortez. By 1971, Blue Ribbon Sports became Nike Inc., and introduced the Nike Cortez.

Late 1960s: The Superstar Era

The adidas Superstar debuted after the 1969 NBA championship and became popular in New York’s streets and hip-hop culture. Rap legends Run D.M.C. embraced the adidas Superstar, making it a cultural icon.

1970s: Nike’s Ascent

In 1971, Nike introduced its first line of shoes, including the Marathon, Obori, and Cortez, featuring the Swoosh logo. With athlete endorsements, Nike’s popularity grew. Vans also launched the Old Skool in 1977, known for its iconic side stripe.

Early 1980s: New Balance and Air Jordans

In 1982, New Balance released the 990v1, the first $100 running shoe. In 1984, Nike created the Air Jordan 1 for Michael Jordan. Despite an NBA ban, Jordan wore them, making Air Jordan 1 a cultural phenomenon.

Late 1980s: The Air Max and The Pump

Nike’s Air Max debuted in 1987, showcasing visible Air cushioning. Reebok’s The Pump, launched in 1989, had an air bladder system for a customizable fit, quickly becoming iconic.

1990s: Puma Disc and Technological Advances

Puma introduced the laceless Puma Disc in the 1990s, while Reebok and Puma continued to innovate. Sneakers became essential fashion items with advanced technologies.

2000s: High Fashion Collaborations

The 2000s saw sneakers become part of high fashion, featuring advanced technologies like adidas’ Boost and Nike’s Air Max. Collaborations with designers and luxury brands elevated sneakers’ status.

2015: The Yeezy Phenomenon

In 2013, Kanye West partnered with adidas to create the Yeezy line, epitomized by the Yeezy Boost 350, launched in 2015. Its unique design made it a coveted item among fashion enthusiasts.

Sneakers have evolved from simple athletic shoes to cultural icons. Sneakers are not just a kind of footwear, they have their own stories and meanings.

Visit Study World Global often to explore more about sneakers and their story!