The sneaker trend is constantly evolving, with new colors and new designs appearing daily. But there are some trends that never die, and adidas has just proved that again with its new drop. The iconic sportswear brand has dropped a Japan-exclusive colorway of the SL 72, putting a fresh spin on an age-old silhouette that has survived the test of time since its initial drop all the way back in 1972.
A Brief History of the SL 72
The adidas SL 72 is a significant model in the history of the footwear industry:
- Launched in 1972 for the Olympics in Munich
- The first shoe to feature the now-famous trefoil logo
- “SL” stands for “Super Light,” highlighting its new light weight design
- Designed to entice weekend runners in the 1970s running boom
The Japan-Exclusive Release: A Closer Look
adidas Originals has now launched a Japan-exclusive colorway of the SL 72, dubbed the “College Navy/White” edition. Here are the key details:
- Model Name: adidas Originals SL 72 RS Japan Exclusive “College Navy/White”
- SKU: JQ3500
- Price: ¥14,300 (Approximately $95 USD)
- Availability: Released on March 18, 2025
Design Features
The “College Navy/White” SL 72 boasts several noteworthy design elements:
- Upper Construction:
- Mix of nylon and suede materials
- Provides a vintage yet premium feel
- Color Scheme:
- Primary color: College Navy
- Accents: White
- Gold lettering for an elevated touch
- Signature Elements:
- Retains the classic serrated three-stripes
- Features the trefoil logo, maintaining its retro DNA
- Sole Unit:
- Slightly chunkier sole compared to the original
- Part of the “RS” (Reshaped) line introduced in early 2024
Why the SL 72 Continues to Captivate
The reasons for the timelessness of the SL 72 are following:
- Versatility: Ideal for sports and everyday use
- Timeless Design: Timeless shape that transcends fashion
- Comfort: Light weight all-day wear
- Heritage: remembers a significant time in adidas history
- Exclusivity: Limited releases and regional exclusives drive desirability
The SL 72 in Popular Culture
Since its introduction, the SL 72 has left its imprint on the track as well:
- Celebrity Endorsements: Spotted on fashion-forward celebrities like Bella Hadid
- Streetwear Staple: Borrowed by the fashion crowd for its retro appeal
- Collector’s Item: The most coveted by sneakerheads and vintage collectors
How to Style the SL 72
The adaptability of the SL 72 means that it can be quickly slotted into any wardrobe. The following styling tips:
- Casual Daywear:
- Pair with bootcut jeans and a simple t-shirt for a casual look
- Slip into a leather jacket for a cool touch, like Bella Hadid does
- Athleisure:
- Match with track pants and a hoodie for a sporty feel
- Perfect for errands or a brief exercise
- Smart Casual:
- Wear with chinos and a button-down shirt to dress up
- Perfect for office casual Fridays or brunches on weekends
The Future of the SL 72
While adidas grows, the SL 72 is still included in their heritage collection. Some more recent additions include:
- SL 72 RS: A redesigned model with a heavier sole, launched in early 2024
- SL 72 RTN: A summer 2024 outdoor shoe with a hardy sole.
- Limited Edition Drops: Exclusive colorways and collabs to bring the model some freshness
Why This Release Matters
The Japan-only “College Navy/White” SL 72 stands out in so many ways:
- Market Strategy: Demonstrates adidas’ commitment to regionals exclusives
- Heritage Preservation: Sustains the traditional SL 72 appearance prevalent in the existing market
- Collector’s Demand: Limited supply enhances demand among sneaker collectors
- Design Evolution: Demonstrates how adidas reimagines classic silhouettes for contemporary sensibilities
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic Reborn
adidas Originals SL 72 in “College Navy/White” is not simply a shoe release. It is the best of the old and new blended together, providing sneaker enthusiasts with a bit of adidas history with a contemporary twist. While the colorway is only available in Japan, it is an indication that adidas looks back in an effort to fuel innovation for its future.
As the SL 72 continues to evolve, it remains a testament to adidas’ long-lasting legacy in sport and fashion. Whether you’re a longtime wearer of the silhouette by decades or you’re just finding its beauty for the first time, the SL 72’s new iteration is a reminder that some timeless pieces never really become outdated – they only improve with age.
