The original Adidas logo was created by the company's founders, Adolf "Adi" Dassler and Rudolf "Rudi" Dassler. This initial emblem was directly inspired by the Dassler family crest, featuring a unique design that laid the groundwork for the brand's enduring identity.
The Genesis of an Icon
The very first logo for Adidas (then Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik) emerged from the vision of its creators, the Dassler brothers. While Adidas is now recognized globally by its three stripes or trefoil, its roots trace back to this foundational design conceived by Adolf and Rudolf Dassler themselves.
Inspiration and Symbolism
This inaugural emblem, distinct from the later well-known stripes, drew heavily from the family's heritage.
- Design Elements: The logo featured a bird carrying a sneaker. This imagery was not random; it was a direct nod to the Dassler family crest, integrating a personal touch into the nascent brand's identity.
- Profound Symbolism: Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the bird carrying a sneaker conveyed a powerful message. It symbolized the challenges that athletes face in their pursuit of excellence and their ultimate conquest over these obstacles. This early logo encapsulated the spirit of overcoming adversity, a core value that Adidas continues to embody.
While the Adidas brand has seen various logo transformations throughout its storied history, adapting to changing times and market demands, the initial design by the Dassler brothers stands as the foundational stone of its visual identity, reflecting their original vision and the brand's deep-seated connection to athletic endeavor and triumph.
