adidas Gazelle

Briefly told: The story of the adidas Gazelle

The adidas Gazelle launched in the late 1960s as a training shoe with a grippy rubber sole and soft suede upper. The combination of a clean silhouette, T-toe, and 3-Stripes made it instantly recognizable. Early versions utilized colorful suede, making a statement that quickly transitioned from the sports field to the street. In the 1970s and 1980s, the Gazelle became a lifestyle favorite—a sneaker simple enough for everyday wear, yet always a bit smarter thanks to the materials and colors. Today, the Gazelle represents timeless adidas Originals DNA: minimalist, comfortable, versatile, and easy to combine with denim, workwear, or tailoring. Whether as the Gazelle OG, Indoor, or Bold—the basic recipe remains the same: a low-profile cut, retro charm, and a look that never goes out of style.

From the stadium to the streets: Culture & comebacks

The Gazelle is deeply rooted in subcultures: In terrace and football culture, it became an integral part of stadium style. In the 1990s, it emerged in Britpop and shaped the image of entire bands and fans. The major relaunch in 2016 brought the Gazelle back to the forefront with authentic materials and fresh colorways – since then, it has once again become both an everyday hero and a fashion statement. Celebrity wearers from Kate Moss to Noel Gallagher, from Kendall Jenner to Harry Styles, demonstrate how universally the silhouette functions. What makes the Gazelle so relevant: It's not a loud trend, but a classic that adapts to new colors, collaborations, and details while always remaining a Gazelle.

Models & Styles of the Gazelle

Whether you're a sneaker newbie or a collector, you should know these variants:

• Gazelle OG - iconic retro shape, flat profile sole, classic suede.
• Gazelle Indoor - transparent rubber sole, indoor DNA, especially popular in lifestyle fits.
• Gazelle Bold - Platform midsole for more height, a fashionable update of the original.
• Gazelle Rekive - Vintage-inspired details with modern materials.
• Gazelle JB - clean, elegant accents like gold branding for a high-quality look.
• Y-3 Gazelle - premium interpretation with fashion finish.

You can choose from a variety of colors: black and white, pink, green, blue, beige, gray, rose, red, mint, light blue, purple, yellow, burgundy, or white. Many colorways are unisex and come in EU sizes with 1/3 increments to ensure you get the perfect fit.

Size advice

The adidas Gazelle generally runs true to size. Choose your usual EU size – 1/3 increments like 38 2/3, 39 1/3, 42 2/3, or 44 2/3 are also available to help you fine-tune your fit. You're shopping for unisex models: If you're between sizes or have wider feet, we recommend the larger option. For a sporty, slim fit, you can base your adidas Originals size on your usual size.

Price & Availability

Depending on the model and edition, the Gazelle typically ranges from around €110 to €140. Special editions—for example, MLS Los Angeles FC or Gazelle Retro Arsenal FC—can be more expensive. Get your hands on popular colors like black, pink, green, blue, or beige early, as popular sizes like 37 1/3, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, and 45 can sell out quickly. Tip: Keep an eye out for promotions and sale styles.

Weather & Care

The classic Gazelle suede is not waterproof. Only special versions, such as the Gazelle with Gore-Tex, offer true water resistance. For everyday wear, a good waterproofing spray before first wear and regularly helps. Use a suede or nubuck brush and a stain eraser to keep the material fresh. Avoid heavy rain, remove moisture with paper towels, and let the shoes dry at room temperature. This will keep your Gazelle clean and color-rich for a long time.

Frequently asked questions about adidas Gazelle

Do adidas Gazelles run big or small?

Mostly true to size. If you're between sizes or have wider feet, choose the larger 1/3 option for more comfort.

What models are available?

The main variants include Gazelle OG, Gazelle Indoor, Gazelle Bold, Gazelle Rekive, Gazelle JB and premium interpretations such as the Y-3 Gazelle.

Are adidas Gazelle waterproof?

Only Gore-Tex versions. Classic suede styles are not waterproof; waterproofing helps protect against moisture and dirt.

How do I properly care for suede?

Brush after drying, renew the waterproofing spray regularly, and carefully remove stains with an eraser. Avoid direct heat.

Unisex and half sizes - what should I know?

Many Gazelle shoes are unisex and come in EU sizes with 1/3 increments, such as 39 1/3 or 42 2/3. This makes it easier to find your perfect fit.