Why did the number of stripes on sports shoes increase? (5 photos)

Gebruder Dassler Schuhfabrik is an enterprise that was opened in 1924 relatives, two brothers Rudolf and Adolf. Two stripes on products - sports shoes symbolized the connection between them. But then a third appeared on the sneakers, and the Dasslers quarreled to the nines and until the end of their days did not communicate.





The main version of the reason for the breakup of relations is impermissible interest that Rudolph showed to his brother's wife. And when the truth surfaced, then provoked a break. Another suggestion is plans. Adolf on the sole ownership of the factory with subsequent delivery co-owner to the American occupation authorities. Brothers to no one they did not give confirmation or refutation and took this secret with them to grave.



The Dassler brothers, Rudolf and Adolf

After a quarrel, the Dasslers divided their offspring, went to different sides and parted on different banks of the river. To be sure. Rudolf for his enterprise he used the not very successful name RUDA, which was soon changed to PUMA, and Adolf named the company ADIDAS.





What about stripes? Agreement between former partners was not to use two stripes as a logo. And three? Why not. Rudolph is not protested, and three stripes became the symbol of Adidas.



Karhu spikes

But in the 40s, another one appeared - the Finnish brand Karhu, products which was also decorated with three stripes. And I had to arrange register the right. What, in other matters, was not so expensive: about 1.5 thousand euros in modern money, and a couple of bottles of good whiskey.



A couple of years ago, a funny legal incident happened: Adidas has decided to trademark the three stripes. But received a refusal. The European Court explained it in the following way: "three parallel stripes applied to any object cannot be object of copyright." So it was possible not to spend money. But times change, and each has its own laws. And the usual signs and symbols, especially if they are fortunate in their simplicity, remain.