Adolf Dassler and Käthe Dassler were the German siblings who founded two of the world's biggest sportswear brands, Adidas and Puma. Their story is filled with rivalry, family drama, and success.
Early Life
Adolf was born on November 3, 1900, in the town of Herzogenaurach, Germany. His sister Käthe was born on January 17, 1904. Their father, Christoph Dassler, was a shoemaker, and their mother, Paulina, was a housewife.
From a young age, Adolf and Käthe showed an interest in sports and sneakers. They helped their father in his shoemaking business and learned how to create shoes that were comfortable and durable.
The Birth of Adidas
In 1924, Adolf Dassler started his own company, Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik, with his brother Rudolf. They created innovative sports shoes that had spikes and were designed for runners and athletes. Their shoes quickly gained popularity, and they started to sponsor athletes and sports teams.
In 1948, the company was renamed Adidas, after Adolf's nickname "Adi" and the first three letters of his last name. The brand's iconic three-stripe logo was also created around this time.
The Rivalry with Puma
In 1948, Rudolf Dassler left Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik and started his own company, Puma. This created a bitter rivalry between the two brothers, who were once close business partners.
The town of Herzogenaurach became divided between the two companies, with people taking sides and refusing to wear the other brand's shoes. The rivalry between Adidas and Puma continued for decades and became known as the "Brother's War."
Käthe Dassler's Role in Adidas
Käthe Dassler played an important role in the success of Adidas. She managed the company's finances and was in charge of the bookkeeping. She also helped with the design of the shoes and created the first women's sportswear line.
Käthe was a strong and independent woman who defied gender stereotypes and helped to shape the sportswear industry.
Adolf Dassler's Legacy
Adolf Dassler died on September 6, 1978, at the age of 77. He left behind a legacy of innovation and creativity in the sportswear industry. Adidas continues to be one of the most popular and successful sportswear brands in the world.
Käthe Dassler's Legacy
Käthe Dassler died on December 14, 1984, at the age of 80. She was a trailblazer for women in the sportswear industry and left behind a legacy of entrepreneurship and financial management. Her contributions to Adidas helped to shape the brand into what it is today.
Conclusion
The story of Adolf Dassler and Käthe Dassler is a fascinating one. Their rivalry and success have made Adidas and Puma two of the most recognizable sportswear brands in the world. Their legacy continues to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and innovators.