The adidas Continental 80 remains a court classic for a reason
In 2018 we saw many sneaker brands relaunch old classics from their archives. Amongst this we saw adidas include the Continental 80 in the ‘Yung Series’ package release, a sleek tennis inspired sneaker that has been flying off the shelves and into your sneaker rotation.
We first saw the Continental 80 released in the late 1980’s, during the rise of aerobics and preppy street style. Taking major inspiration from other tennis court shoes and light workout silhouettes of the time, the iconic Three-Stripes released their iteration of a tennis-inspired, crisp court classic.
Whilst this sneaker didn't see much love when it first dropped in the '80s, the Continental 80 found its perfect audience in 2018 following the success of similar silhouettes such as the Gazelle and Stan Smith. There may be some influence from the likes of Kanye West and his love for this model, which is evident in the details of the Yeezy Powerphase released as part of the Calabasas range in 2011.
Design
The Continental 80 comes to us as a one-to-one reproduction of the original '80s archival counterpart . Featuring a soft tumbled leather upper partnered with a two-tone ribbon detailing along the side. Being such an iconic brand that is adidas - logos are a must. The Continental 80 keeps it retro with a Trefoil logo on the tongue and heel tab, completed with branding on the side logo window. The upper is placed upon a classic rubber cupsole and fitted with a French Terry cotton interior, making for a super comfortable everyday go-to.
Comfort and sizing
The new and improved lightweight EVA midsole is probably the only significant change adidas has made to this sneaker, and it's a change that we welcome because this everyday-go-to is also matched with everyday comfort. A must if you spend a bit of time on your feet. The side perforation adds ventilation throughout, providing coolness where you need it most.
Here's some good tips. As this sneaker is enjoyed by all, it generally comes in men's US sizing, where technically women need to add one size for the correct conversion (eg. men's US6 equals a women's US7).
However in saying this, we and our customers have found that the Continental 80 does run on the larger side so we would recommend sizing down from your regular size by half a size if you have broad feet or a whole size if your have narrow feet. Otherwise we suggest you go by the same size as your adidas Stan Smith, Gazelle, Superstar or Campus as these will fit similarly.
Styling
adidas has rereleased the perfect everyday shoe, available in a growing number of simple yet complimentary colourways with a sleek silhouette guaranteed to match every outfit. The Continental 80 is a tribute to the court style of the '80s and has taken its rightful place in our wardrobes. Pair these with your favourite dress, jeans, or tracksuit, we’ll guarantee it’ll be hard to find an outfit these sneakers can’t complete thanks to its simple design!
For an easy weekend look, the white or off white colourway pairs nicely with a tee and light denim jeans, but if light coloured sneakers aren't really your thing; the black colourways easily fits a cropped trouser look matched with some cute socks.
Overall
This sneaker has come through and succeeded despite being released in the midst of the chunky sneaker trend, showing no sign of slowing down which is a testament to Less is More.
A great choice for first-time sneaker buyers or even the well seasoned enthusiast. Retailing at a modest $149.95 AUD, it won't even break the bank. Take a look at the range of adidas women's Continental 80 sneakers now at Sole Finess.