CLASSIC: Adidas Versus Puma: A Tale of Two Brothers
Mar 1, 2025
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In this engaging discussion, guest producer Matt Stillo shines a light on the tumultuous history of Adidas and Puma, founded by the Dossler brothers, Rudolph and Adolf. Their rivalry transformed the sneaker market, sparked by personal disputes and World War II tensions. The podcast dives into the impact of Jesse Owens's endorsement, which revolutionized sports marketing but further divided the brothers. Listeners will enjoy tales of legal battles and the cultural implications that followed, unveiling how family feuds shaped a global industry.
The Dossler brothers' rivalry and personal conflicts created a deep familial rift that ultimately led to the formation of Adidas and Puma.
Jesse Owens' Olympic success with Dossler shoes not only launched athletic endorsements but also significantly enhanced the brand's visibility and reputation.
Deep dives
Origins of the Dossler Brothers
The story begins with the Dossler brothers, Adolf and Rudolf, who ventured into shoemaking following World War I in Herzogenaurach, Germany. Adi, the younger brother, utilized leather scraps from wartime uniforms to create functional shoes, gaining a reputation for quality craftsmanship. This success led to the partnership with his older brother Rudy, who was more sales-oriented, and together they founded the Dossler Brothers Shoe Company in 1924. Their different personalities initially complemented each other, as Adi focused on design and Rudy handled the business side, propelling their company to success.
Family Feud and Division
As the company's success grew, tensions between the brothers escalated, fueled by personal rivalry, strained family dynamics, and the political climate in Germany. The turning point came when they were forced to share a bomb shelter during an air raid, leading to a misunderstanding that deepened their animosity. By 1948, the brothers officially parted ways, each establishing their own separate companies—Adi launched Adidas while Rudy started Puma. This separation symbolized a deep familial rift, not only affecting their relationship but also dividing the town as employees and residents aligned themselves with one brand or the other.
Rise of Adidas and Puma
Jesse Owens' success at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where he wore Dossler shoes, significantly elevated the visibility and reputation of the brand, serving as an early case of athletic endorsement. Post-war, while Adidas thrived, crediting much of its innovation and marketing strategies to Adi, Puma also carved out a niche for itself under Rudy's leadership. The rivalry intensified, with both brands conducting aggressive marketing and endorsement deals, establishing their unique identities in the sportswear market. Despite their competition, the brothers' familial ties remained strained, leading to each company developing its custom designs while continuously battling each other in court over various designs and branding issues.
Lasting Legacy and Reconciliation
Even after the deaths of both brothers in the 1970s, the feud persisted, with their families struggling to find reconciliation amidst a backdrop of competing companies and a deeply divided town. By 2009, Adidas and Puma finally came together for a friendly soccer match aimed at promoting peace, marking a symbolic effort to put their bitter history behind them. However, the divide remained significant, with many townspeople still loyal to one brand over the other, reflecting the deep-rooted rivalry. Today, both companies continue to thrive, showcasing the lasting impact of the Dossler brothers' legacy on the athletic shoe industry around the world.
Today Adidas and Puma are two of the industry's most well-known tennis shoe makers, and people around the world prize the footwear for its unique design and reliable craftsmanship. Yet there's a strange, bitter origin story behind these giants of the sneaker world. Join the guys as they delve into a tale of petty recrimination, family feuds and the unending contempt that, ultimately, created the Adidas and Puma we know today. Join Ben and Noel as they explore some peak Ridiculous History in this weekend's Classic episode.