An original, recoded. adidas Originals reintroduces the ADISTAR CONTROL 5, taking running tech heritage and reimagining it for the modern era of streetwear.
First introduced in the late 1970s, the ADISTAR began as a lightweight track spike, built purely for competition. By the 2000s, the family of silhouettes evolved, matching the growing demand for cushioned, long distance running shoes that met the needs of marathoners and ultra-runners alike.
In 2008, the ADISTAR CONTROL 5 was born. More than just a retro runner, the Y2K performance icon was originally engineered for road stability with its advanced FORMOTION technology, and is now reengineered for a new generation.
Built on legacy, reborn for now, the reissued ADISTAR CONTROL 5 taps into adidas’ performance heritage with its durable rubber outsole, metallic overlays, and mesh upper. Going beyond retro nostalgia to bring back functional technology for the modern era, a FORMOTION heel unit delivers elevated stability, while an ADIPRENE+ midsole and a torsion bar in the midfoot provide a high level of cushioning. The iconic open mesh upper is then covered in Y2K inspired silver metallic overlays to complete the look.
Locally, the campaign is brought to life through a new generation of Originals. Rugby star Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu embodies the spirit of control and creativity on and off the field, representing a new wave of athletes redefining the game through individuality and confidence. Joining him is adidas’ latest signed partner, Ciza, a rising global voice redefining the sound of African music. With a genre-blurring afrohouse style and an expanding international footprint, he represents a new generation of Originals where culture, sound and style move as one.
The return of the ADISTAR CONTROL 5 is encouraging all to run their own race, in sport and in life. The shoe is available on adidas.co.za and in the adidas stores.
About adidas Originals
Inspired by the rich sporting heritage of adidas – one of the world’s leading sports brands and a global designer and developer of athletic footwear and apparel – adidas Originals is a lifestyle brand founded in 2001. With the adidas archive at its foundation, adidas Originals continues to evolve the brand’s legacy through its commitment to product innovation and its ability to filter the creativity and courage found on the courts and sporting arenas through the lens of contemporary youth culture. Marked by the iconic Trefoil logo that was first used in 1972 and championed by those who continue to shape and define creative culture, adidas Originals continues to lead the way as the pioneering sportswear brand for the street.
