Fernando Mendoza's Custom adidas Stan Smith Signals Big Return for the Classic Tennis Shoe

Fernando Mendoza will be an important part of the growing adidas U.S. Football Family. Having joined the Three Stripes on an NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal in December 2025, the Indiana Hoosiers quarterback was selected as the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders.

In addition to celebrating the occasion with timely ads, adidas tapped The Shoe Surgeon (Dominic Ciambrone) to create a one-of-one Stan Smith for Mendoza. The classic tennis shoe first launched over 60 years ago and it's been a go-to refined footwear style for countless folks. The custom pair by The Shoe Surgeon has been crafted from premium leather, which also includes the laces. Exotic reptile skin panels take over the Achilles' heel area, making the gift a true luxury.

The pair made for Mendoza's life-changing moment hints at an impending push for the adidas Stan Smith. The silhouette has been out of vogue for the last few years, overtaken by other adidas Originals, options, but, it seems poised to return in full force soon. Timothée Chalamet was also pictured wearing the classic white-and-green Stan Smith court-side at a New York Knicks game.

You can shop from over 20 Stan Smith designs right now via adidas.com.