Adidas Handball Spezial Collegiate Navy Clear Sky Gum

The Adidas Handball Spezial was first introduced in 1979 as the premium footwear option for the top handball players. More than three decades later, the Three Stripes brought these classics back from the archive as a lifestyle icon.

They may have been intended for handball, but their versatility as a casual shoe makes them truly special. Check out this classic colourway in Collegiate Navy and Gum.

It was during the 80s where the Adidas Handball Spezial became idolised. The rise of the casual culture in English Football also signalled the rise in popularity of the low-cut shoe.

Made with nubuck suede, this particular Handball Spezial colourway sports a combination of Collegiate Navy Blue and Sky Blue. The navy pigskin nubuck dominates the entire upper of the shoe, while the synthetic leather panels on the heel tab, tongue, and three stripes appear in a lighter Sky Blue tone. A gold-foiled lettering that spells ‘SPEZIAL’ is placed beside the three stripes.

A thick gum rubber cup sole provides a low-profile ride that allowed handball players to get maximum court feel during the game. The main source of cushioning is found inside the shoe on the sock liner keeping you comfy for all activities.

Going to the outsole, adidas continued to keep things interesting with two different patterns on the heel and forefoot. The heel features multiple trefoil brand logos mimicking a herringbone pattern.

A circular suction cup can also be seen on the heel originally designed to increase court grip. On the forefoot, criss-cross lines and three circular suction cups are strategically placed to increase traction. A tried and tested concentric pattern on the ball of the foot completes the outsole.

Own a piece of Three Stripes history when you rock a pair of the Adidas Handball Spezial – Blue Gum.

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