Adidas and Puma emerge from family shoe business rivalry

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: May 30, 2026, 9:01 AM

Last updated May 30, 2026

Adidas and Puma emerge from family shoe business rivalry

Summary

Adidas and Puma, two global sportswear giants, have their roots in a family shoe business founded by brothers Adolf and Rudolf Dassler. Their partnership soured during World War II, leading to the split that created competing brands. This feud has evolved into one of the most notable rivalries in business history and the sportswear industry. The lasting impact includes innovative marketing strategies and distinct brand identities that continue to influence sports retail today.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Adidas was founded by Adolf Dassler and Puma by Rudolf Dassler.
•The brothers' partnership ended in conflict during World War II.
•Both brands have since grown into major players in sportswear.
•The rivalry remains influential in marketing and design within the industry.

Latest Updates

9:01 AMYahoo Sports — Adidas and Puma, the bitter rivalry between two brothers

What they're saying

"
Discover how two brothers turned a family shoe business into the global sportswear giants Adidas and Puma after one of history’s most famous business feuds.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

New York Giants Football