adidas was founded in 1949 by Adolf "Adi" Dassler in Herzogenaurach, Germany, after a split with his brother Rudolf, who went on to create PUMA. Adi Dassler aimed to produce high-quality athletic footwear, and his efforts quickly made adidas known for innovation in sports gear. The company gained early success as its footwear helped the German national team win the FIFA World Cup in 1954, offering better grip and performance on wet, slippery pitches. Over cleats, adidas grew its product line to include iconic sneakers like the Superstar, Samba, and Stan Smith, which found success both with athletes and fashion enthusiasts alike. adidas's collaborations, including partnerships with designers like Stella McCartney, brands like Prada, and influential artists such as Kanye West for the Yeezy line, have helped it strengthen its connection to both sports and street culture, combining performance with modern fashion.
