HISTORY OF ADIDAS ORIGINALS HANDBALL SPEZIAL
Want to know about the best styles on feet? Let us guide you through the most iconic models that have made the transition from sport to style with our definitive guide to - the adidas Handball Spezial.
Explore Men's Spezial & Women's Spezial
The adidas Handball Spezial debuted in 1979, a time when the three stripes jumped feet first into performance footwear but for much more niche sports. Handball was just and demanded a specific type of shoe - footwear that could provide superior grip, stability, and durability on indoor courts. With the Handball Spezial, adidas created a high-performance shoe for that purpose.
One of the iconic features is the gum rubber sole, designed to bring the extra grip on the indoor surfaces. Matched with a lightweight suede upper, which also added the durability needed for intense play. It didn't take long to become a favourite among professionals. With the design prioritising minimalism, this simplicity also made the shoe highly adaptable, allowing it to transition seamlessly from the court to the streets.
The shoe became particularly popular in the UK, where it was embraced by the burgeoning casuals scene—a subculture associated with football fans who valued premium sportswear and sneakers.
For the casuals, the Handball Spezial was more than just a shoe; it was a statement piece. Its understated elegance and connection to sports lent it credibility, while its comfort made it ideal for long days of travel and socialising. The gum sole, suede finish, and gold accents perfectly aligned with the aesthetic preferences of the time. Limited-edition releases, collaborations, and special colorways have cemented its place in the world of collectible footwear. Despite its humble origins, the Handball Spezial now occupies a coveted spot in adidas' lineup of heritage sneakers.
With plenty of options of the adidas Handball Spezial available now at Pro:Direct, this retro inspired model has the match for your retro themed style.
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