adidas History: 1949 to Now The top 10 sneaker list for 2016 was dominated by retro Adidas Adidas's Military Born Trainer Is Quietly Becoming the Brand's Best Everyday Sneaker Adolf Dassler was one of the most visionary figures in the world of athletic footwear. Beginning in the 1920s by producing simple sports shoes, Dassler founded Adi Dassler addas Sportschuhfabrik in 1949. Adolf Dassler was one of the most visionary figures in the world of athletic footwear. Beginning in the 1920s by producing simple sports shoes, Dassler founded Adi Dassler addas Sportschuhfabrik in 1949.