Out of a small family business, Adidas has risen to become the second-largest sports apparel manufacturer in the world. A forward-thinking branding strategy has played a huge role in the company’s success. In this article, we’ll delve into the captivating history of the Adidas logo and explore the meaning behind its iconic symbols.
Who Designed the Adidas Logo
When we think of Adidas, the three stripes come to mind. Since 1949, Adidas has remained faithful to this visual symbol. The initial logo featured a spiked running shoe between two elongated ends of the letter “d.” However, it was discovered that this same icon was already being used by Karhu Sports, a major shoe brand. In order to settle the dispute, Adidas founder Adolf Dassler purchased the trademark from Karhu Sports for the equivalent of 1,600 euros and two bottles of whiskey.
In the early 1970s, the Adidas logo underwent a transformation, with the introduction of three parallel stripes. The 1971 rebranding campaign brought about a revised emblem incorporating a trefoil. Then, in 1991, a new logo emerged, featuring three tilted stripes resembling a mountain. Finally, in the early 2000s, the iconic Adidas logo we know today was born—a circle crossed by three curved lines.
The Meaning Behind the Adidas Logo
The addition of stripes to Adidas running shoes served a practical purpose—they enhanced durability. Interestingly, the Adidas shoes worn by Jesse Owens helped him secure victory at the 1933 Olympics.
The stripes on the trefoil emblem symbolize the company’s focus on diversity, while the three trefoil leaves represent the three major regions (North America, Europe, and Asia) where Adidas products can be purchased.
The mountain-shaped logo conveys the message of overcoming challenges and pursuing goals relentlessly. The circular emblem represents the world and the ability to adapt swiftly to change.
Here’s a fun fact: In all iterations of the Adidas logo, the brand name always starts with a lowercase letter. This intentional choice emphasizes that the brand is dedicated to producing casual sportswear that is accessible to everyone.
Why Adidas Has Four Logos
Adidas stands apart by refusing to discard its older logo versions. Instead, all four logos coexist within different product lines and collections. Let’s explore how these logos are used across the extensive Adidas family.
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Three parallel stripes: This classic symbol is present across all product lines and serves as the cornerstone of Adidas branding.
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Trefoil: Alongside the three-striped design, this version is utilized for the Originals product line, which includes casual apparel and shoes.
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Mountain: The mountain emblem perfectly suits the Performance line, which caters to professional athletes.
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Circle: This version is prominent in the Style collections, created in collaboration with renowned designers.
The Secret of Adidas Branding
Despite its numerous transformations, the Adidas branding remains rooted in its origins. This consistency enables us to identify the Adidas logo in any variation confidently. The success of the Adidas brand identity stems from four key principles:
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Simple design: All Adidas logos are minimalist and concise, making them easy to read and recognize.
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Versatility: While Adidas’s primary corporate color is black, the company isn’t afraid to experiment with different colors across various product lines. Over time, the iconic emblem has appeared in white, red, and even vibrant green.
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Strong message: Adidas cleverly uses its logo to communicate its values, such as quality, strength, and perseverance.
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Awareness: Adidas has garnered the trust and support of accomplished athletes and celebrities, including Beyonce, Kylie Jenner, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Muhammad Ali. By donning Adidas at public events, they elevate the brand’s profile among existing and potential customers.
How Would the Adidas Logo Look If It Were Made in ZenBusiness?
Unfortunately, the article ends before revealing how the Adidas logo would look if it were made in ZenBusiness. Nonetheless, it is fascinating to imagine the possibilities of combining these two influential brands and witnessing the synthesis of their respective identities.
In conclusion, the Adidas logo encapsulates a rich history and a meaning that extends beyond mere aesthetics. It is a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation, authenticity, and inclusivity. As Adidas continues to evolve, we eagerly await the next iteration of its iconic logo—a symbol that has become synonymous with excellence in the world of sports.
