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I’m all about finding the perfect balance between style and comfort. Today, I’m looking at a classic sneaker that’s been making waves in both sneaker culture and pop culture: the Adidas Gazelle. In this article, I’ll attempt to answer whether the Adidas Gazelle is actually comfortable for walking?

Comfort and Adidas Gazelles

The Adidas Gazelle tends to be stiff right out of the box, but can adapt to your feet with enough wear. While they are comparatively lightweight vs other “classic” Adidas models, they do not match more modern tech such as Boost when it comes to comfort.

As far as the uppers go, Gazelles are often comprised of suede or nubuck. These types of materials help the sneaker adapt to the wearer’s foot more easily than stiff leather pairs.

The shoe provides moderate arch support. This means that if you have specific arch support needs, you might want to consider adding insoles to enhance the comfort. This goes double if you plan on wearing Gazelles for extended periods of walking or standing.

Gazelles also have limited cushioning. This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for sneakers with a cushy feel underfoot. Gazelles prioritize style and heritage over plush cushioning, so if you’re a fan of that vintage vibe, they might still be a go-to choice.

Adidas Gazelle History

The Gazelle released in 1968 as a soccer shoe. During the 1970s, the Gazelle emerged as one of Adidas’ most popular models, leading the brand to explore various design enhancements.

As the ’80s unfolded, the Gazelle continued to gain traction, particularly in the UK, where it became one of Three Stripes’ most coveted offerings.

A significant resurgence occurred in the early 1990s, accompanied by a broader range of color options that captured the imagination of sneaker enthusiasts. This era solidified the Gazelle’s status as a sneakerhead staple.

Throughout the 90s, the shoe became popular with younger crowds thanks to retro styles gaining in popularity, along with celebrities rocking or referencing the sneakers both in fashion and song lyrics. According to Adidas’ own website, the 1991 silhouette is a favorite.

The Style Factor

The Adidas Gazelle definitely has a certain retro charm. The typically suede uppers and the signature three stripes give it that timeless look that complements streetwear outfits easily. They are somewhat simple in design which makes them a bit more low key as opposed to a flashier pair of kicks.

Whether you’re pairing them with jeans, joggers, or even a casual suit, Gazelles add an extra edge to your ensemble. So, even though they might not be the coziest, they look good on feet and go with a lot of different looks.

Collabs with brands like Gucci have helped bring the Gazelle back in recent years.

Tips To Help The Adidas Gazelle Be More Comfortable

Now, let’s talk about how you can make an Adidas Gazelle as comfortable as possible, especially if you plan on walking long distances or spending extended hours on your feet.

• Make sure you get the right size for your feet. Gazelles tend to run true to size, but it’s always a good idea to try them on in-store to determine if you should size up or down.
• Like any quality sneaker, Gazelles benefit from a break-in period. Wear them around the house or for short outings to help them adapt to your foot shape.
• If you need extra arch support or cushioning, perhaps insoles can help. This customization can significantly enhance the comfort
• If you’re wearing the shoe daily, consider rotating them with other sneakers to prevent excessive wear and tear and give your feet a break while breaking them in.

Conclusion

In the world of sneakers, comfort is king, but style is a close second. Adidas Gazelles may not be the absolute comfiest sneakers on the market, but they certainly bring a lot to the table. With the right size, a little break-in time, and perhaps some added insoles, you can rock your Gazelles comfortably and confidently.

Timeless style, durability, and recent resurgence in fashion make them a solid choice for sneakerheads who appreciate both form and function. So, if you’re looking to elevate your sneaker game with a touch of vintage flair, go ahead and add Gazelles to your collection. They may not be the absolute pinnacle of comfort, but they’re an iconic piece of sneaker history that deserves a spot in every sneakerhead’s wardrobe.

Photos were all sourced from Adidas. Shop Adidas Gazelles today!