12 Adidas Originals Collectors Still Hunt For

Adidas introduced its Originals line in 2001, celebrating iconic sneakers from its history. These shoes represent both timeless design and cultural influence. Certain pairs have become harder to find, making them treasures for collectors. Each release tells a story tied to sports legends or fashion movements. Their demand shows how strong the connection is between sneakers and personal identity.

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Adidas Superstar

The Adidas Superstar was first introduced in 1969 as a basketball shoe. It originally sold for around $45 and quickly became popular for its leather upper and rubber shell toe. Its influence grew when hip-hop group Run DMC adopted it in the 1980s. Today, certain vintage pairs and limited editions can sell from $200 to $600. The Superstar remains one of the most recognizable Adidas shoes in history.

Collectors appreciate its mix of sports and cultural heritage. While general releases are still available at retail for about $90, older originals are far more valuable. Special collaborations also drive up demand. Many sneaker fans enjoy the simplicity and history tied to the design. The Superstar continues to hold an important place in collections.

Adidas Yeezy 350 Turtle Dove

The Yeezy 350 Turtle Dove was released in 2015 under Adidas Originals. It retailed for $200 at launch and sold out instantly. The knit design and Boost sole made it unique at the time. Current resale values are between $1,200 and $3,000 depending on condition. Even reissues sell for high amounts.

Collectors hunt for the Turtle Dove as it was the first Yeezy 350 released. Its limited numbers created huge demand. It holds a special place in Adidas history due to its cultural impact. Many consider it one of the most important Adidas sneakers of the last decade. Finding a pair today is very difficult.

Adidas Stan Smith

The Stan Smith was first released in 1971 as a tennis shoe. Its original retail price was around $50, making it accessible to many. The shoe featured a clean white leather design with green accents. Today, vintage pairs and limited releases can fetch $250 to $700. General pairs still sell new for about $95.

The Stan Smith’s timeless look makes it a favorite for both casual wear and collectors. Over the years, it has been reissued many times. Rare early editions or special collaborations remain highly valued. Its place as a cultural icon in both sports and fashion keeps interest alive. Collectors continue to search for original pairs in good condition.

Adidas NMD R1 OG

The Adidas NMD R1 OG first came out in 2015. It retailed for about $140 and sold out quickly worldwide. The design included Boost cushioning and colored EVA plugs on the midsole. Current resale prices for the original OG release range from $500 to $1,000. Later reissues are priced lower but still sell well.

Collectors were drawn to its modern design mixed with vintage Adidas elements. The NMD line sparked massive demand at the time of release. The OG colorway remains the most wanted by sneaker fans. Scarcity has kept resale values high. It is still one of the most chased modern Adidas Originals.

Adidas Gazelle

The Adidas Gazelle was first launched in 1968 as a training shoe. It sold for about $40 during its first release. Known for its suede upper and slim silhouette, it quickly gained popularity in Europe. Today, older pairs and rare colorways are valued between $200 and $500. General reissues can be purchased new for around $80.

Collectors love the Gazelle for its strong ties to music and street style. Bands and youth movements in the 1980s and 1990s made it an iconic shoe. The variety of colors released over the years adds to its appeal. Many rare editions are harder to find, increasing their value. The Gazelle continues to represent classic Adidas heritage.

Adidas Samba

The Samba was introduced in 1950 as an indoor soccer shoe. Its original retail price was about $35. It featured a leather upper and gum sole for grip on indoor surfaces. Today, vintage and limited versions can sell for $200 to $400. Standard reissues are available for about $80.

Collectors value the Samba for its long history and global presence. It is one of the oldest Adidas models still in production. Many subcultures, from football fans to musicians, adopted the shoe. Rare collaborations or early pairs bring higher resale prices. The Samba’s lasting influence keeps collectors interested.

Adidas LA Trainer

The Adidas LA Trainer was introduced in 1984 during the Los Angeles Olympics. Its retail price was about $60. It featured adjustable heel plugs for customized cushioning. Current market values for vintage pairs range from $200 to $500. Reissued versions sell for around $100.

Collectors admire the LA Trainer for its Olympic connection. The adjustable plug system was a unique design element. Vintage pairs are especially hard to locate in wearable condition. They remain a symbol of 1980s Adidas innovation. Many sneaker fans still hunt for them today.

Adidas Forum

The Adidas Forum was first released in 1984 as a high-top basketball shoe. It originally sold for about $100, which was expensive at the time. It featured a unique ankle strap for support. Today, rare originals and limited editions can sell from $300 to $1,000. Reissued pairs retail around $110.

Collectors enjoy the Forum for its mix of style and basketball history. It was worn by professional athletes and became a status symbol in the 1980s. Special collaborations with designers and musicians have renewed interest. Original pairs in good condition are especially valuable. The Forum remains a key model for Adidas collectors.

Adidas Campus

The Adidas Campus was first introduced in the 1980s as a basketball shoe. It retailed for about $65 at launch. The design featured a suede upper and rubber sole, making it stylish and durable. Today, vintage pairs and rare colorways are worth $200 to $500. General reissues can be bought for about $85.

Collectors appreciate the Campus for its connection to skateboarding and hip-hop culture. It was widely worn in the 1990s, especially among musicians. Limited reissues often sell out quickly. Older pairs with original materials are hard to find. The Campus continues to be part of Adidas heritage collections.

Adidas ZX 8000 Aqua

The ZX 8000 Aqua was first released in 1989 as part of the ZX running line. Its retail price was about $85 at the time. Known for its bright aqua and yellow colors, it became a classic. Current resale prices range from $250 to $600 for original or rare editions. Reissues are sold new for around $120.

Collectors value the ZX 8000 Aqua for its role in running history. It was one of the first shoes to feature Adidas Torsion technology. The bold color scheme makes it stand out in collections. Early pairs are hard to find, increasing their appeal. The ZX line remains important in Adidas archives.

Adidas Torsion ZX 5000

The Adidas Torsion ZX 5000 debuted in 1989. Its retail price was around $85. It was built with the Torsion bar system for midfoot stability. Vintage pairs and rare reissues now sell for $250 to $600. Standard retro versions are available at about $120.

Collectors enjoy the ZX 5000 for its strong role in running culture. It was widely praised for comfort and support. The bold colorways made it popular in street fashion as well. Early editions are very rare to find. For Adidas fans, the ZX 5000 remains a must-have model.

Adidas Spezial

The Adidas Spezial was first released in 1979 as an indoor handball shoe. It retailed for about $45. Its suede upper and gum sole made it practical and stylish. Today, vintage pairs and rare colorways sell for $200 to $500. Reissues usually retail for around $100.

Collectors like the Spezial for its clean design and European roots. It became popular outside of sports, especially in casual fashion. Rare colorways are highly sought after. Many fans still wear it as part of retro-inspired outfits. The Spezial remains a collector favorite in the Adidas line.

From vintage releases to modern classics, Adidas Originals remain a key part of sneaker history. Their appeal lies in both the stories they carry and the style they bring to everyday wear. Many rare editions have become prized finds for collectors across the world. Whether you are a casual fan or a serious collector, these sneakers continue to make an impact.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.