Gear & EDC
A Closer Look at the Adidas Stan Smith
The $55 Bargain with a Common Projects Silhouette
Overview
A Unique Niche in Footwear
The Adidas Stan Smith occupies a unique niche in the world of footwear. Its design closely resembles that of higher-end white leather shoes like Common Projects, making it an undeniable bargain when available for just $55.
The Review
Three Categories, Honest Takes
Form Factor — Adidas Wins
When it comes to classic silhouettes, Adidas takes the lead. Nike has yet to introduce a shoe that can rival the Stan Smith in this category. Despite my past disappointments with the quality of newer Adidas sneakers, there's something about the Stan Smith that compels me to purchase another pair. While I occasionally lean towards the chunky Air Force 1 or the bold colorways of Jordan 1s, sometimes all I crave are understated classics.
Quality of Build — Nike
Unfortunately, the build quality of the Stan Smith has noticeably declined. The 2024 version lacks the craftsmanship of the pair I owned in 2021. However, for the price point, they serve their purpose, and this experience has given me clarity about my footwear goals for 2025, particularly a pair of Common Projects.
Break-In Period — Approximately 2 Weeks
These shoes require about two weeks to break in fully. The first initial days can be painful, especially in the toe box. However, the most uncomfortable part is around the edges below my ankle, which still causes some chafing even after two weeks. Ultimately, they do become comfortable.
Scorecard
At a Glance
| Category | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Form Factor | Best classic silhouette in the category — nothing from Nike comes close |
| Build Quality | Declined since 2021 — adequate for the price, but a step down from earlier versions |
| Break-In | ~2 weeks; size up to ease the process significantly |
| Value | Strong at $55 — Common Projects alternative at a fraction of the cost |
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