The Adidas Yeezy 500 is a sneaker that embodies a unique fusion of retro-inspired design elements with modern aesthetics, resulting in a distinct silhouette. Designed by Kanye West in collaboration with the Adidas Yeezy design team, the Yeezy 500 showcases a blend of premium materials, innovative construction techniques, and minimalist branding principles.
Now that the Adidas Yeezy line has ended, it’s safe to say that the 500 is one of the best and most popular Yeezy sneakers ever. If you want to purchase a pair but have a few questions first, you’re in the right place. We’ll cover everything you need to know about the unique sneaker below.
Yeezy 500 Design
The most distinct feature of the Yeezy 500 is its chunky design. The shoe is highlighted by the substantial midsole and exaggerated proportions that contribute to its bold appearance. Since the Yeezy 500 looks so futuristic, you may be surprised to learn that the sole unit is actually a design that’s over 20 years old. The chunky and wavy sole is a design from Adidas’s Feet You Wear line and was originally from the Adidas KB8 III, Kobe Bryant’s third signature basketball shoe that he wore during the 1999-2000 NBA season.
The upper of the Yeezy 500 typically features a combination of premium suede, leather, and mesh materials. This multi-textured construction adds depth and visual interest to the design while also enhancing durability and comfort. The upper is characterized by its unique paneling arrangement, with overlays and underlays strategically placed to create a dynamic and layered look.
How is the Yeezy 500 cushioned?
Many Adidas Yeezy shoes, like the 350 and 700, utilize Adidas Boost foam cushioning, but the 500 does not. The Yeezy 500 is equipped with Adidas' Adiprene+ cushioning technology in the midsole. This responsive foam delivers a comfortable and supportive ride. The Adiprene foam combines with the ergonomic Feet You Wear sole design to offer a fit and feel that many wearers find just as, if not more, comfortable than the Yeezys with Boost.
Yeezy 500 High
The Yeezy 500 was also released in a high-top version. The design features essentially the same look as the standard low-top, but with a raised collar that ultimately gives the shoe a more hiking boot-like aesthetic.
Yeezy 500 Colorways
Most Yeezy 500 releases feature neutral color palettes, such as desert tones, muted greys, and subtle earth tones. These colorways complement the shoe's organic and rugged aesthetic, evoking a sense of natural beauty and simplicity. Popular colorways for the Yeezy 500 include ‘Salt,’ ‘Bone White,’ ‘Super Moon Yellow,’ and ‘Utility Black.’
How does the Yeezy 500 fit?
The Adidas Yeezy 500 is generally considered to fit true to size. This means that you should go with your normal shoe size when purchasing a pair. However, some wearers find that going a half size up provides a slightly roomier fit, especially if you prefer a bit more space in your sneakers.
How do you clean Yeezy 500s?
Use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove dirt and debris from the surface of the Yeezy 500. For tougher stains, you can use a mild detergent or sneaker cleaner solution mixed with water and gently scrub the affected areas. Avoid submerging the shoes in water or using harsh chemicals, as this can damage the materials. After cleaning, air dry the shoe at room temperature.
