adidas Reissues the Cadet, a Low-Profile '70s Road Runner
The trim running sneaker is back in all its original glory.
When it debuted in the ’70s, adidas‘ Cadet was a slim, premium road running sneaker accompanied by a memorable ad campaign that dubbed it “one less worry for 20 million kangaroos.” Kangaroo leather was a dominant material in athletic shoes at the time, but due to the introduction of a special Cangoran leather the Cadet set itself apart from its competition. In the years since, it’s largely faded from view — save for the continued affection of a few ardent Trefoil fans — but now adidas Originals has brought it back in all its original glory.
Returning with a classic “Cloud White/Collegiate Royal/Lush Red” color scheme, the Cadet boasts a trim white leather upper with a sandy suede toe bumper. The midfoot’s suede Three Stripe graphic features one red stripe surrounded by two blue stripes, and more blue suede is present on the heel tab. Insoles get in on the fun as well with a repeating blue and red print.
A large blue Cadet badge is stamped on the lightweight leather tongue, and eyestays boast toothed edges, matching the trim of the aforementioned Three Stripe graphic while adding further texture. No-frills natural rubber outsoles, a hallmark of many ’70s adidas Running shoes, rounds off the look.
The adidas Cadet “Cloud White/Collegiate Royal/Lush Red” is available now at retailers like Aphrodite, and is priced at £69 GPB (approximately $97 USD).
Prefer futuristic to classic? Check out a Miami Beach-esque colorway of the adidas Ultra4D.
