The Retro adidas SL 72 RS Shoes Are TikTok-Famous for Their Vintage, Colorful Style — And They’re Back in Stock Today
As seen on style stars like Bella Hadid.
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Let’s take a walk down memory lane, all the way back to 1972 — that’s the archive era adidas’ newest trending shoe, the SL 72 RS sneaker, was plucked from. The iconic model holds court as one of the original track stars from adidas, and since its recent re-issue, new drops haven’t been able to stay in stock for long. We’re calling it now — it’s slated to be the it-shoe of the summer, and today, adidas is finally restocking the entire arsenal of bold colorways that are totally unique the airy and sleek retro stepper.
Named for its release year and its “super light” design, the original SL 72 sneaker was one of the most revolutionary adidas running shoes of its time, as it was created to be supremely streamlined for Olympic track athletes to execute sharp launches and speedy sprints. The adidas SL 72 sneakers also mark a turning point in the brand’s history as the first-ever adidas shoes to don the now-signature Trefoil logo, and is revered as one of the ultimate adidas heritage shoes. In 2019, the sneaker giant revived it from the archives after 50 years, and released it as the SL 72 RS, with support-focused upgrades defined by adidas’ current-day performance innovation.
The sneaker’s light-as-a-feather feel stands apart from similar luxe-looking, slim profile styles from adidas, as its mixed-media upper contains panels of breathable mesh, rather than leather or suede as seen in the Gazelle or Stan Smith shoes, making it an ideal swap (at the same price!) for the warmer months ahead. It also takes the original model a large leap further, with a lifted midsole, stacked with plush EVA midsole cushioning for an extra-buoyant ride, and redesigned grippy gum rubber outsoles that stick the landing every time.
Like any throwback sneaker these days, the fashion crowd quickly caught on to its Samba-like silhouette and quintessential retro flair. Since the reimagined icon hit the scene, the SL 72 RS got Wales Bonners’ touch in a summer 2023 collaboration, and was later released by adidas in rich brown and bold blue colorways at the tail end of the year — of which the former was just recently spotted on the feet of Bella Hadid. While the model is a known lover of vintage street style, if she’s flashing a new shoe, it’s best to take notes, because she has a track record of sparking adidas walking shoe trends, like the enduring Samba Shoes and timeless Forum sneakers.
The long-awaited restock of the colorful trainers comes right on time, as whispers of vivid footwear statements, like sunny-yellows, bright blues, and grassy greens, continue to breed intrigue among trend forecasters and adidas fans on TikTok. In fact, the under-the-radar SL 72 RS sneaker trend is already racking up 1.2 million views and counting on the app, where rich hues from blue to maroon are fan-favorites for daily wear. Gone are the days of sticking to all-too-convenient neutrals as all signs are pointing to statement sneakers in vintage-inspired silhouettes for spring and summer 2024 — and the SL 72 is leading the charge.
Thousands of shoppers will no doubt be logging on bright and early to secure their size, so, if you don’t want to wait around for the next restock, be sure to snag a pair of your favorite colorway ASAP.
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Meet the Author
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She routinely reports on adidas’ bestselling releases, including trendy sneakers and athletic trainers that suit different functions, foot types, and personal styles.