We took a deep dive, fact-checked the claim, and splashed a little bit of truth all over it. The results are in... And let's just say there's a reason premium indie stores like us are beginning to go big on Patrick...

While Adidas and its iconic 'three stripes' dominate the global sneaker consciousness, a deeper dive into footwear history reveals a compelling case for Patrick's 'two stripe' design as the true original. This historical precedence, combined with a commitment to quality over mass production, positions Patrick as a more authentic and cooler choice for the discerning enthusiast.

The Original Stripe: A Matter of Timeline

The core of Patrick's claim lies in simple chronology. The brand's history decisively pre-dates the era when Adidas popularised its stripe motif. Patrick's Foundation: The story begins in 1892 when Patrice Beneteau started his shoe factory in France. It was his son, Eugene, who in the 1930s added the two stripes to the side of their football boots. Crucially, these stripes were not just for aesthetics; they were functional, designed to reinforce the shoe during side-to-side movements.

Adidas's Arrival: Adolf "Adi" Dassler officially founded Adidas in 1949. The now-famous three-stripe logo wasn't even his original idea. Adidas acquired the trademark in 1952 from a Finnish sports brand, Karhu, which had been using it since 1916.

This timeline is clear: Patrick was using its functional two stripes on footwear a full two decades before Adidas even acquired its three-stripe mark. The design was born from a genuine need for performance, an authentic origin story that contrasts sharply with a logo acquired through a business transaction.

Niche Heritage and Superior Quality

Beyond just being first, Patrick represents a different philosophy. While Adidas grew into a global behemoth, Patrick has remained a more specialist brand, particularly revered in the worlds of football and cycling. This niche status is its strength.

Craftsmanship Over Hype: Patrick built its reputation on the pitch, not on the runway. Legends of the game like Kevin Keegan and Michel Platini wore Patrick boots, chosen for their quality and performance, not for their hype. This focus on heritage and function means the brand never had to compromise its build quality for the sake of mass production.

The 'IYKYK' Factor: In a world saturated with the three stripes, wearing Patrick is a statement. It signals an appreciation for history, an eye for understated quality, and a desire to stand apart from the crowd. It’s the choice of a connoisseur, not a follower. The two stripes represent a subtle nod to an authentic legacy that predates the modern sneaker hype machine.

Ultimately, Adidas may have won the marketing war, but Patrick holds the historical crown. They are the true originals - a brand defined by authentic innovation, enduring quality, and an effortlessly cool, understated legacy.

Researched and written by Tyler at 157