Certain icons manage to endure in a world of fleeting fashion trends and fast-moving fads. For adidas, the Campus fits this bill and has been a part of the scene for nearly 40 years, as it continues to see new iterations. adidas recently introduced the more chunky Campus 00s, a model that's proven buzzy among the TikTok crowd.
The Campus traces its roots back to the 1970s, when it was first known as the “Tournament”. Initially designed for the basketball court, the sneaker was rebranded in 1980 with the “Campus” name we know today. Skateboarders, hip-hop stars, and B-boys all sported the Campus during the era, as it became more than just a basketball sneaker. The shoe’s classic low-top design, suede body, and the signature Three Stripes soon became synonymous with effortless style and comfort.
While slight tweaks to the shape and design occurred over the years, The Three Stripes harkened back to the OG Campus days with the introduction of the Campus 80s in the late 2010s. In 2022, adidas followed it up with the Campus 00s, which borrows elements of the original along with the chunky aesthetics of skateboarding shoes in the early aughts.
The shoe's upper comes constructed with high-quality suede landing on various panels. The contrast of the leather Three Stripes on the midfoot stands out against the suede, creating a blend of textures. But the Campus 00s isn't just a feast for the eyes, it also promises serious comfort. The chunkier, padded sole offers enhanced foot support, making the sneaker perfect for all-day wear.
One of the driving forces behind the Campus 00s' massive popularity is its virality on social media platforms, particularly TikTok. Thousands of influencers and everyday consumers have taken to their platforms to showcase their love for the sneaker and create an impressive online footprint.
Despite consistently producing high-profile collaborations and limited editions, adidas also needs general release sneakers to generate appeal. On top of staple silhouettes such as the Superstar or Stan Smith, the Campus 00s demonstrates the brand’s ability to shape trends in more holistic fashion. The popularity of the Campus 00s also comes at a time when chunky, retro-inspired footwear is making a major comeback.
Below, we’ve selected a handful of pairs currently available on adidas’ website. While you’re at it, make sure to sign up for adidas adiClub to get free shipping and secure the best deals on the adidas Campus 00s.
adidas Campus 00s “Grey Three Cloud White”
The adidas Campus 00s Grey Three Cloud White keeps things simple with its grey suede upper and white details on the leather striping, laces, and sockliner. You can never go wrong with a neutral-based upper paired with a gum sole.
adidas Campus 00s “YNuK"
With the help of Portuguese artist Crude, adidas brings early 2000s Nu Metal vibes to the adidas Campus 00s. The sneaker comes covered in brown suede with black hits on the Three Stripes, sockliner, and portions of the tongue. What really sets this pair apart from your normal Campus 00s are the accessories and packaging. Graffiti-like stencils and cartoon characters are included with the pair, as well as three extra lace options.
adidas Campus 00s “Crystal White Preloved Blue” (W)
As a vintage-inspired silhouette, the adidas Campus 00s shines in aged colorways like this “Crystal White Preloved Blue.” The latter of the titular shades appears on the heel tab, Three Stripes, Campus branding, and tongue logo while the rest of the upper comes in a grey suede. The cream sole unit and gum outsole round out the look.
adidas Campus 00s “Carbon Core Black”
Keep things stealthy with this all-black rendition of the adidas Campus 00s. Darker shades of black appear on the leather heel tab and Three Stripes and a lighter hue cover the suede upper. Unlike most pairs of Campus 00s, the tongue comes constructed out of mesh which adds to the comfort of the model.
adidas Campus 00s “Pantone”
Retaining collegiate colorblocking, the adidas Campus 00s “Pantone” adds a washed orange suede to the sneaker. White accents take over branding details including the Trefoil logos on the tongue and heel, as well as the lace set and sockliner. A vintage makeover on the midsole alongside the gum outsole completes this pair's classic look.
adidas Campus 00s “Energy Ink”
This “Energy Ink” colorway of the adidas Campus 00s contains a clean two-tone upper featuring black and purple. Leather details on the heel tab and Three Stripes come in the dark black hue, while the suede upper receives a purple makeover.
adidas Campus 00s “Bright Blue”
Standing out amongst most colorways, the adidas Campus 00s “Bright Blue” features two shades of blue on its upper while neutral hits of black and white come placed on the heel tab and Three Stripes respectively. On the front half and eyelets we see a deeper blue hue while on the back half, laces, and tongue come in a light blue.
adidas Campus 00s “Core Black Animal Print” (W)
This black-based colorway on the adidas Campus 00s features an all-over suede upper with some wild accents on the midfoot. The Three Stripes contain a faux leopard print, while other branding details, including the tongue tag, come in tan and black.
adidas Campus 00s “Off White Animal Print” (W)
The adidas Campus 00s “Off White Animal Print” turns the dial up to 11, as the entire tan suede upper contains a faux leopard print. More neutral coloring comes through cream hits on the heel tab, sockliner, and sole unit.
adidas Campus 00s "Notting Hill Carnival"
Inspired by the famous Caribbean festival in London, the adidas Campus 00s “Notting Hill Carnival” honors the event by including wing embroidery invoking the wings worn by attendees. This vibrant textile pops amongst the black suede and leather that surrounds it.
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com
