New York City's Tip Top Shoes Celebrates 85th Anniversary with Adidas Originals

Despite new store openings all across the globe, the world of retail is well past its heyday. And yet, institutions like New York City's Tip Top Shoes showcase the importance of a brick-and-mortar presence, as well as charm lost to time. To celebrate 85 years serving Manhattan's Upper West Side, the institution has teamed up with Adidas Originals to release two footwear collaborations: an SL 72 and Handball Spezial.

Ideated and marketed by the West NYC team, an off-shoot of the retailer, the capsule draws inspiration from the classic footwear styles that Tip Top Shoes have carried over the years. As the last full service sit-and-fit shoe store in New York City, the institution has an expertise in the field—and responsibility to preserve it—that doesn't exist anymore. Its Adidas SL 72, then, features heritage-inspired color-blocking and perforated elements referencing wing tip oxfords. A regal maroon and off-white color scheme bring the shop's vision to life.

In addition to an interpretation of the Super Light silhouette from 1972, Tip Top Shoes' project with the Three Stripes includes a Women's-exclusive Handball Spezial.

Unveiled to the world via X by Tyler Mansour, also known as @ArabLincoln, the accompanying Originals silhouette has been reworked with a multi-colored, knit fabric upper. Shades of pink, purple, and orange come together to present the Handball Spezial in a refreshing, spring-friendly manner. Contrasting profile 3-Stripes, laces, and Achilles' heel panels interrupt the boldly-executed surroundings, with the rear layer nodding to Tip Top Shoes' Upper West Side home.

The commemorative SL 72 and Handball Spezial will release on Saturday, April 26, at both Tip Top Shoes (155 W 72nd Street) and West NYC (147 W 72nd Street) for $120 and $130, respectively. Details of an online launch have not been disclosed by either party involved.

Enjoy campaign photography of the collaboration shot by Jordan Keyser below. For more from the Three Stripes family, check out the Kith x Adidas Football Spring 2025 collection.