Stan Smith: Tennis Legend, Civil Rights Activist, and Cultural Icon

Stan Smith: Tennis Legend, Civil Rights Activist, and Cultural Icon

Stan Smith: From Tennis Star to Cultural Icon

Stan Smith, the legendary tennis player and namesake of the iconic Adidas sneakers, is the subject of a new documentary that delves into his remarkable journey.

Smith’s tennis career soared in the 1970s, where he won two Grand Slam singles titles and reached the world No. 1 ranking. However, his impact extended far beyond the court.

The documentary reveals Smith’s unwavering commitment to social justice. He became a vocal advocate for civil rights and AIDS awareness, using his platform to raise consciousness and inspire change.

In the 1980s, Smith’s name became synonymous with the Adidas sneakers that bore his name. The shoes quickly gained popularity in the world of hip hop and celebrity fashion, cementing Smith’s status as a pop culture icon.

The documentary features interviews with Smith, his family, and a host of renowned athletes and celebrities, including John McEnroe, Darryl McDaniels (DMC of Run-DMC), and Donald Dell. LeBron James and Maverick Carter serve as executive producers, while Emmy-winning filmmaker Danny Lee directs the film.

“We all know the shoe. We all know the name,” said Lee. “But let’s unpack the mythology behind the shoe.”

A portion of the documentary’s proceeds will benefit the USTA Foundation’s National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) network, which provides tennis and academic programs to underprivileged youth.

“The sport of tennis has given so much to me in my life, and I’m excited that this film will help future generations both on and off the court,” said Smith.

The NJTL network, co-founded by tennis legends Arthur Ashe and Charlie Pasarell, has over 250 chapters nationwide, reaching more than 150,000 youth.

“Stan is a person who has transcended the boundaries of the tennis court to become a global icon,” said Ginny Ehrlich, CEO of the USTA Foundation. “He is a shining example of the excellence, resilience, and determination that we aim to instill in the thousands of young people who participate in NJTL programs nationwide.”

Adidas Unveils Paris Collection for Roland Garros, Embracing Comfort and Sustainability

Adidas Unveils Paris Collection for Roland Garros, Embracing Comfort and Sustainability

As the European clay-court season approaches its pinnacle with the arrival of Roland Garros, Adidas has unveiled its latest Paris Collection, meticulously designed to combat the unique challenges of the surface.

The 15-piece lineup boasts Heat.Rdy technology, ensuring optimal moisture management and ventilation, while Freelift construction grants players unparalleled freedom of movement. “Clay demands a dynamic approach,” explains Adidas ambassador Elina Svitolina. “The collection’s support and comfort are crucial for success on this demanding surface.”

Adidas has opted for a minimalist aesthetic in this collection, eschewing prints in favor of bold color blocking. White and black paneling evokes the lines of a tennis court, while vibrant golden yellow accents infuse a sense of energy.

Sustainability remains a key focus for Adidas. Several pieces in the collection support the “Move For The Planet” initiative, which harnesses collective movement to drive positive change. For every 10 minutes of movement logged on the adidas running app from May 10-22, the company will donate $1 to projects promoting sustainability education and enhancing sports facilities’ resilience against extreme weather.

The Paris Collection is available at adidas.com, the adidas app, and select tennis specialty retailers. Adidas players like Svitolina, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and others will don these garments throughout the clay court season, seeking to conquer the challenges of the surface in style and comfort.

Wozniacki and Volynets Twin in Adidas Kits at BNP Paribas Open

Wozniacki and Volynets Twin in Adidas Kits at BNP Paribas Open

Caroline Wozniacki’s return to the BNP Paribas Open has been a nostalgic affair, showcasing her vintage form on the court. However, one notable difference has been her attire, as the former world No. 1 has been sporting the same match kits as her opponents.

In her third-round match against American Katie Volynets, Wozniacki and her 11-year-younger opponent both wore Adidas’ black-and-white spring match kit. While Volynets’ outfit consisted of a top and skirt, Wozniacki’s was a dress.

Despite the similar attire, Wozniacki emphasized that they had not committed a fashion faux pas. “Katie was wearing a top and a bottom, a skirt and a top, she wasn’t wearing a dress, but it kind of looked like the same,” she explained.

Wozniacki praised the Adidas kit, saying, “I think it’s a really cool dress, so I’m going to try and rock it.”

Next up for Wozniacki is a fourth-round clash against another former world No. 1 and close friend, Angelique Kerber. Kerber has also been wearing the same Adidas kit, adding to the fashion symmetry on the court.

“I know that Angie is going to rock it too,” Wozniacki said. “We’ve played each other so much. We know each other extremely well. There’s going to be no secrets out there.”

The match promises to be a close contest, with both players familiar with each other’s game. “It’s really going to be about who is going to be better on the day. It can go either way,” Wozniacki said.

Wozniacki’s return to the BNP Paribas Open has been a reminder of her enduring talent and the enduring appeal of her style, both on and off the court.

Top 11 badminton shoes to buy in 2023

Top 11 badminton shoes to buy in 2023

Fast-paced badminton matches need for swift twists and turns as well as excellent balance. Your performance is equally dependent on your ability and tools, and it all begins with your shoes. A quality pair of shoes not only improves performance but also safeguards you against harm.

There are many different sportswear and accessory companies on the market, and the majority of them are well-known, high-quality names. It might be challenging to find the ideal pair for your upcoming badminton tournament that can simultaneously make you feel powerful and at ease. 

How can you analyse shoe codes and choose the best pair for you? You’ve found it! Here, we present an exclusive list of the top 11 best badminton shoes available in India for less than Rs. 5000/-. We’ve carefully hand-picked these shoes based on their characteristics, user feedback, and overall value for money. They have outstanding grip, stability, exceptional cushioning, and durability.

best Yonex Racquet

best Yonex Racquet

Check out the top 11 best badminton shoes in India on the list below to get the ideal pair for you.

Adidas Quickforce 3.1 Badminton Shoes

Price- 3500/-

Any badminton player will benefit from wearing the Adidas Men’s Quickforce 3.1 Badminton Shoes. These shoes provide the utmost level of comfort and durability thanks to their superior leather top and light cushioning midsole.

The 3D Fit-Knit top of this shoe hugs your foot and gives a locked-in fit, while the soft foam layer in the heel aids in swift, fluid movement. These shoes are made to help you maintain control so that you can concentrate on your game.

Nivia Powerstrike 2.0

Nivia Powerstrike 2.0

Price- 1799/-

Nivia Powerstrike 2.0 may be the finest option for you if you’re seeking the best badminton shoes for pros. Nivia is a name for premium, reasonably priced badminton shoes for both sexes. The business aspires to offer the most cosy, robust, and useful items available. They are renowned for their distinctive patterns that are offered in a range of sizes.

FZ Forza Leander Badminton Shoes Men

Price- 3399/-

The FZ Forza Leander Badminton Shoes are one of the best options for people who have a tight budget. The shoes are extremely durable thanks to the use of high-quality microfiber PU, which means prolonged life for this very good-looking shoe.

Additionally, the inside of the shoe has Dura-grip for increased grip at the net. It is one of the best badminton shoes under Rs. 5000.

Asics Gel-COURTMOV+

Price- 3419/-

The most popular athletic brand in the world is Asics. For more than 50 years, it has assisted athletes in giving their finest performance. The brand’s pledge to provide athletes with the quality and performance they deserve serves as its main selling point.

The Men’s Asics Badminton Shoe is a lightweight, flexible shoe designed to provide the player with the most stability and support possible. It is lightweight and boasts a breathable mesh top for use in a range of activities. Better flexibility is provided during multidirectional motions by the deeper flexion grooves.

B-TUF Men’s Badminton Shoe

Price- 988/-

One of our top picks for badminton shoes in India is B-Tuf. It offers a selection of colourful footwear manufactured from tough PSU leather. Because the soles are constructed of rubber latex, they are comfortable to wear while exercising and are water-resistant. They are waterproof and light in weight. Maximum comfort is provided by these shoes.

The upper of the B-TUF Men’s Badminton Shoe is made of mesh and synthetic leather for optimal ventilation and durability.

YONEX AKYAU Super Series Shoes

Badminton Shoes for Men

Price- 2849/-

YONEX, a reputable shoe manufacturer, has continually developed high-end badminton shoes for years. Their Akayu Super Series Badminton Shoes are one of the hottest shoes in the badminton circles. The YONEX Akayu Super 6 Badminton Shoes are ideal for men who like to play for longer periods. The badminton shoes have an outer material made of PU.

The shoes come in six different colours: classic blue midnight navy gold, midnight turquoise crystal teal fire, white black red, aqua blue, black goji berry and black lime.

Li-Ning Ultra IV Badminton Shoes

Price- 3540/-

One of the greatest manufacturers of athletic goods in the world, especially in the Eastern Hemisphere, is Li-Ning. They have a broad selection of shoes in terms of colours and designs since they believe in manufacturing shoes that appeal to their customers and fit properly on their feet.

The shoes contain a shock-absorbing cushion footbed in addition to a rubber sole that is non-marking and perfect for indoor badminton courts. For comfy and ideal games, both men and women may use these Li-Ning sneakers.

SEGA Alpine Badminton Shoes

Price- 1550/-

The SEGA Alpine Badminton Shoes are a high-performance shoe with a robust yet lightweight, flexible and shock-absorbing construction that is made to offer the best grip and traction on the court. These shoes are made to offer the most comfort and security possible thanks to their supportive top and the thickest soles currently on the market. Players could stand up and play with speed and power because to the strong, shock-absorbing substance used in the construction of these shoes.

Victor A362IIJR-BI

Price- 3512/-

Because of the unique twist in their design, Victor shoes are preferred by the majority of current badminton players. It ensures the finest level of quality while preserving comfort. The sneakers come in waterproof variants and have a mesh upper that allows for ventilation. They are lightweight and give the stride more spring.

YONEX Dominant Badminton Shoes

Price- 2849/-

Yonex, a reputable shoe manufacturer, has continually developed high-end best badminton shoes for years. Ideal for badminton, squash, and table tennis, the YONEX Dominant Badminton Shoes (Black/ Blue/ Orange) provides maximum shock absorption and quick compression recovery.

The badminton shoes are meticulously contoured for comfort providing stability in the forefoot and toe areas. Additionally, the shoes have a midsole made of soft and resilient pylon material, offering shock-absorbing ability while covering the court. These are one of best badminton shoes under Rs. 5000.

DSC Court 44 Badminton Shoes 

Price- 1314/-

DSC Court 44 Shoes are made of synthetic leather. Mesh is used for the exterior material, which promotes good airflow and helps to absorb perspiration.

High-grade EVA and a TPU shank provide the midsole’s excellent cushioning and provide good flexibility and balance.

Crepe rubber that is 100% natural and non-marking makes up the outsole. It contains a liner made of excellent quality, which extends the life of the shoes.

You may acquire the DSC Court 44 Badminton Shoe without hesitating if you’re seeking high-quality badminton shoes for under Rs. 1500 in India.

Final Thoughts

Basically, these were the top 11 badminton shoes one could buy in 2023. Which one would like you to buy? Drop your answers in the comment box.

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