Few and far between are the days one is able to slide one’s feet into a legend. Indeed, the word “legend” receives casual usage in this modern era of Obama-Nobels and American Idol, but take heart, friends, because there are still a few tried-and-true objects in the world, worthy of such superlatives.
Behold the Adidas “Adilette” sandal ($25-$30; available nearly anywhere). I purchased my first pair in the early ’80s, having seen the older boys–the cooler boys–wear them at soccer tournaments. Legend has it, Adidas founder Adi Dassler created the slip-on sandal at the behest of athletes in the 1950s. Nowadays, soccer players and cyclists are but a few of the lucky people to grace their feet with the functional, comfortable Adilettes.
You recall Adi Dassler’s brother, Rudolf, left the family company to found his own brand, Puma. You call Jesse Owens wore Adidas shoes at the 1936 Berlin Games. You recall that many of the world’s greatest athletes over the past half-century have worn the Adilette. Quite a story behind the brand and sandal.
It’s time you sport a pair of Adilettes. Why? Believe me, I have no angle with Adidas; I receive no discount when purchasing their products. You should wear the Adilette because it’s a tradition born of simple function and timeless style. Forget that Pele wore Puma. Just slide into a pair of Adilettes the moment you step off the bike or on the way to the soccer field. You’ll join the company of legends.
Behold, the Adilette!
p.s. Don’t buy the trendy white ones. You’ll look like a German hospital-chef.
