The Diadora Equipe Mad Italia Updates a 1970s Throwback

Italian sportswear company Diadora actually have quite an extensive back catalogue that stretches all the way to 1948. Some of the most prolific output coming out of Caerano di San Marco was during the 1970s, such as when Diadora released the Equipe runner in 1975. Over 45 years on since the introduction of that low profile and sleek sneaker, it’s received a 2021 update in the form of the Equipe Mad Italia. It retains plenty of chic Euro DNA, while simultaneously updating its aesthetics to be in line with contemporary audiences.

The Equipe Mad Italia is one of Diadora’s most luxurious sneakers, with it still being made in Italy – an increasingly diminishing feature of European sneaker brands. This elevated level of craftsmanship sees the use of high quality nubuck that’s been pre-treated to achieve a stonewash effect, nodding back to the model’s 1970s origins. Similarly, the heritage styling is retained, namely the signature toe cap panels and ringed eyelets. Modern elements include the enlarging of key areas like the wedge foam midsole, oversized heel clip, and raised ankle tabs.

The Diadora Equipe Mad Italia is available now directly from Diadora, in five colourways ranging from classic two-toned white editions with contrast accents to dark tonal palettes.