My Experience with Adidas Superstars: From Daily Wear to Retirement
*An honest look at the longevity of a $20 sneaker after 3,000 miles.*
The Journey of My Superstars
I purchased a pair of Adidas Superstars in June 2019 for an incredible $20 and have been wearing them almost daily for nearly 18 months, especially since the onset of COVID. These shoes have truly been put through the wringer, and while they’ve shown signs of wear, they’ve also demonstrated impressive durability.
Over this time, my Superstars have taken on approximately 3,096 miles (calculated from 18 months at 5 days a week with an average of 8 miles per day). Most of my walks occurred on flat and smooth surfaces—like concrete, tile, wood, and carpet—contributing to their longevity. The wear has mostly been gradual, with the majority of miles covered at a casual pace rather than running.
Despite their continued functionality, my Superstars have definitely seen better days:
- →Cushioning — The soles have lost nearly all their cushioning, which has affected overall comfort.
- →Tear — A noticeable tear formed on the outer side of the left shoe, likely due to my heavy-handed cleaning methods.
- →Heel Wear — I’ve observed greater wear on one side of both heels, which indicates I must be hitting the ground at an angle. However, this wear is minimal, and I believe the shoes could still withstand many more miles.
Retirement Plan
| Phase | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Early Retirement | February 2021 | Visible holes; considered Stan Smiths as replacements. |
| Final Retirement | August 2021 | Post-rotation attempt; moved to Nike React Miler’s for support. |
Final Thoughts
My Adidas Superstars were my daily drivers for about 18-22 months, offering incredible value for just $20. They delivered a reliable performance for casual walking, but the soles eventually crushed, creating a risk of injury to my feet.
Now that they've been retired, I’m considering customization options for a fun project and look forward to finding a new pair of Superstars to continue the legacy of affordable and durable footwear!
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