Adidas has dozens of vintage silhouettes from the 70s and 80s, the names of which may surprise even fans of the brand: Chetcuti, Touring, Nite Jogger, Albrecht Mid, Dragon, Kegler Super. Among them, there are adidas Originals 350, which can be easily confused with the adidas Originals YEEZY Boost 350 Kanye West sneakers. different eras... Let's understand in more detail in the very first "350s".

The Japanese roots of German sneakers

The adidas 350 was launched as part of the Japanese-exclusive AS Series line of the early 1980s. This is due to the fact that the brand sought to adapt to the Asian market, adapting the design of classic European silhouettes. The adidas 350 was reminiscent of the iconic adidas Gazelle but was inspired by the adidas Olympia all-leather upper. The result was unique - the rounded perforation of the toe attracted attention and at the same time helped in the fight against the hot climate of Asia. It was complemented by larger holes on the sides - eight on each side.

In Japan in summer, temperatures reach over 30 degrees Celsius, and almost daily rains increase humidity to 100% - this season is considered one of the most unfavorable for travel. With the adidas 350 offering increased foot ventilation, it was much easier to endure this kind of weather. Over time, the 350s made its way to Western collectors who appreciated the minimalist aesthetics and designs used in the silhouette. However, a massive release in the US and Europe never happened. The situation was corrected only in March 2016.

Rebirth of the adidas 350

Gary Aspden is a major fan of adidas heritage and, more recently, its creator. Aspden's collection contains more than 12 thousand pairs of sneakers, 500 of which were brought to Moscow for an exhibition in the summer of 2015. After more than 10 years as an employee, he became head of adidas SPEZIAL, releasing rare archival silhouettes in a new guise. Of course, Gary couldn't help but know about the adidas 350, which is why the sneaker was part of the 2016 SPEZIAL Spring / Summer collection, inspired by France.

Actual variations

Two months later, seeing the success of the release, adidas included the 350 in their flagship line, adidas Originals. Since then, new models and colors of Adidas 350 have been regularly introduced to the market, so fans will not be bored. However, this silhouette is still far from the popularity of Gazelle, and therefore easily stands out in the crowd. Added personality to the latest release, featuring the adidas Originals 350 in suede and a new, icy shade of blue.

Every effort has been made to maintain the original adidas 350 concept - comfort, minimalism, lightness. Discreet black inlays on the heel, neat branding, white rubber sole and textured tongue hiding under solid laces. The versatility of adidas Originals “Blue / Navy” makes them the perfect summer piece for both men and women.

Today we want to take a closer look at the creation of the first running shoes.

What did they look like, what were their characteristics and how much did they differ from the latest adidas running shoes?

So, let us remind you that adidas was founded by the Dassler brothers - Adolph and Rudolph. Officially, the company was founded on August 18, 1949, but this was preceded by 25 years of experience at the Dassler Brothers Shoe Factory.

It all started in 1924. Two brothers lived in the small Bavarian town of Herzogenaurach - Rudolf (Rudi) and Adolf (Adi) Dassler. Their father worked in a shoe factory, their mother worked as a laundress. Both brothers just returned from the war, the younger Adi began making shoes in the back room of his mother's house. Then his older brother Rudolph joined him - this was the beginning of the history of the cult brand. The brothers soon opened a small factory and named it the Dassler Brothers Shoe Factory.

What did the brothers' first running shoes look like?

Adi Dassler's real passion was sports shoes. That is why, in 1925, at his Gebrüder Dassler factory, he developed special shoes for athletics (shoes for sprint running and for long jumps) and patented spikes and boots with a protective cushion under the foot.

The first running shoe, designed by Adi Dassler, was designed for running short and medium distances (up to 800 m). His creations have been recognized by many athletes. The first gold medal in the shoes of the brothers was received by Lina Radke at the Summer Olympic Games in 1928 in Amsterdam. Her result in the 800 meter race is 2: 16: 8.

Lena Radke at the 1928 Olympics, photo - adidas-group.com

Running shoe (model waitzer), in which Lina Radke won gold at the 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam, photo - designboom.com

Shown here is this very first running shoe with a specially designed bio-mechanical cushion with a custom 60mm slope. The upper part of the sneaker is made of goat leather, the insoles are made of special chrome leather (soft thin skin tanned with chrome salts), the sole and spike plates are made of vegetable-tanned leather (Vache leather). The advantage is light weight and tight lacing.

The first sprint sneakers of the Dassler Brothers Shoe Factory in 1925, photo - designboom.com

Sprint sneakers Helen Schmidt (model waitzer), in which she won bronze (relay - 4x100 meters) at the 1928 Olympic Games in Amsterdam, photo - designboom.com

This shoe features an innovative synthetic coating in the forefoot.

Sprint shoes by Georg Lammers at the 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam, photo - designboom.com

What makes this shoe special is that it uses one of the first "screw systems" in athletics - 6 hand-forged studs, a double riveted metal plate that supports the forefoot and distributes pressure to the studs. This system was used for a limited period.

With each new model Adi Dassler came up with new technologies and tried to find the best option between the weight of the sneakers, their grip, stabilization of the foot and their appearance. Below, in chronological order, are other sneaker models in which athletes won medals at the Olympic Games.

Sprint shoe (model waitzer) at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, photo - designboom.com

Owens James Cleveland's sprint shoe (model waitzer), in which he won gold at the Olympic Games in Berlin in 1936, photo - designboom.com

Running shoes (model waitzer) by Herbert Schade at the 1948 Olympics, photo - designboom.com

adidas tokyo 64 - Mike Larabi's sprint shoes at the Tokyo Olympics in 1964, photo - designboom.com

We hope that it was interesting for you to plunge a little into the history of the creation of adidas running shoes and see how they have changed every year and with the new idea of ​​Adi Dassler. It's interesting to compare these shoes with the latest adidas designs and find similarities with ours.

2016 has just ended and it's time to highlight some of our favorite ADIDAS releases in the new year .. At the beginning of 2017, it's safe to say that this year Adidas will be keeping up the pace of innovation and will delight us with many new products that will show phenomenal performance. The updated 2017 releases of the NMD and Ultra Boost models receive improvements and raise the bar for sales with each update. Last month, Adidas unveiled its third release, the YEEZY Boost 750, with further releases likely slated for the rest of the year. Other popular Adidas Stan Smith and EQT models are also expected to be updated in 2017. The German brand will undoubtedly be a success this year. Take a look at the best Adidas running shoes of 2017.

15 best sneakersAdidas in 2017

Adidas Consortium EQT ADV SUPPORT 910

The SUPPORT 910 will be very popular this year. The sock is made from highly durable Dyneema synthetic material that has already established itself as the material of the future. During the Dyneema molding process, molecules consisting of long linear polyethylene chains are twisted into fibers, while losing intermolecular bonds and acquiring an almost perfect parallel orientation of molecules, which, along with an ultra-high molecular weight (more than 2 million), gives the fibers unique properties:

1.the highest strength

2.practically zero elongation

3.immunity to water and the vast majority of other solvents

4.Excellent wear resistance, abrasion resistance

5.high resistance to UV, oils, aggressive natural substances and environments

6.high frost resistance

7.low coefficient of friction

8.no memory effect

Adidas Ultra Boost Uncaged

The release of the Uncaged version took place in 2017. The first release as part of its adidas Originals lineup featured the all-tonal red and white Adidas Ultra Boost. The positive reaction from buyers led Adidas to come up with an update, which was embodied in the Ultra. Boost Uncaged... The Adidas Ultraboost Uncaged has been very well received due to its simple look and incredible lightness. The main difference from the Ultra Boost version is the lack of a tongue. Instead, the Uncaged version has an elastic band at the ankle. As a result, we have one of best models Adidas in 2017.

Adidas Palace Pro Primeknit

For the first ever collaboration between Adidas Originals and Palace Skateboards, the Palace Pro Primeknit is available in white and black with a rubber sole. The latest release of the Palace Pro Primeknit features new colorways, including an orange and white variant. Most likely, this cooperation between Adidas and Palace Skateboards will not end and in 2017 new releases of this model await us.

BAIT x adidas Stan Smith “420”

The BAIT x adidas Stan Smith “420” is made from hemp stem fibers. The heel uses long-pile suede to reflect the texture of the cannabis, and the tongue has a medical prescription label. The name 420 is borrowed from the term used in the North American drug subculture to refer to the popular times for smoking marijuana. The number 420 means either 4:20 (4 h. 20 pm), or the date 4/20, that is, April 20. Overall, this is a great model with a well thought out layered construction. Let's hope the police aren't overly attentive to people wearing BAIT x adidas Stan Smith “420” sneakers. By the way, this model is not available for retail sale. Adidas runs a special raffle that requires registration to win the opportunity to buy a pair of BAIT x adidas Stan Smith “420”. Only after winning will you get the privilege of buying them for $ 120 per pair.

Slam Jam x adidas Tubular Nova

Slam Jam Tubular Nova is a true collage made from high quality materials. Heavyweight fabric forms the base of the sneaker in off-white and light gray. Soft skin it is used on the toe of the shoe, while the suede panel wraps around the heel. The Slam Jam logo ends the case. To buy Slam Jam Tubular Nova visit your nearest adidas store Originals.

Stan Smith Primeknit

Often, best ideas are the simplest. Using the original Stan Smith as a base is probably a complete guarantee of future success. The iconic Adidas Stan Smith gets a modern update with a premium adidas Primeknit upper that adapts to individual characteristics feet. The sneakers have retained the authentic design elements - elegant style, contrasting heel insert and white rubber sole. These are the best Adidas summer sneakers of 2017 in our opinion. Look for Models Adidas Stan Smith on the site Sniker.ua

Nice Kicks x adidas Consortium NMD R1 PK

Another collaboration between Adidas and Nice Kicks based on the NMD model. Nicks Kicks NMDs stand out from other NMD versions with their vibrant red and black livery, which draws inspiration from vintage concert posters in Austin, Texas. The model also features a branded inlay and tag, which reminds us that the Nice Kicks also went to great lengths to design this model from Adidas.

Solebox x adidas Ultra Boost

As part of the Consortium World Tour, Adidas and Berlin-based Solebox have prepared a European release of one of the earliest Uncaged Ultra Boost models. The resulting Primeknit model comes in multiple shades of gray with flashes of red on the outsole and insoles. As with most Solebox collaborations, this particular Solebox x adidas Ultra Boost was an instant hit. This suggests that the best Adidas running shoe in 2017 is the Solebox x adidas Ultra Boost.

Adidas x Pharrell Elastic Slip On “Pink Beach”

Pharrell Williams is one of the biggest assets of Adidas Originals. Pharrell has never looked like anyone else. In fact, it was his extraordinary behavior and style of dress that made him one of the most popular artists of our time. Take a look at the Pharrell Williams x Adidas Originals "Pink Beach" sneakers. A collection that draws inspiration from the vibrant energy of island culture. The model comes in two colors: a classic white and green tennis silhouette and a colorful pattern that is inspired by tribal art.

Highsnobiety x adidas Consortium Ultra Boost

Several collaborations with famous brands, including this limited edition collection of one of the most famous models Adidas in 2017 - Ultra Boost. This version came with a soft dark gray knit upper, leather cage and branding on the tongue.

Adidas Climacool 1

This time, Adidas returned to the early 2000s to revitalize the Climacool 1. At the time, the Climacool was one of the first Adidas models to feature a ventilated toe cap. The new version of the Adidas Climacool 1 was re-released in 2016 in a series of tonal colors. And even in the special Coca-Cola color shown in the photo.

Adidas Originals YEEZY 750 Boost “Gray / Gum”

A significant amount of rumors and speculation have already become the standard when it comes to the Yeezy. The third iteration of the YEEZY 750 from Kanye West and Adidas Originals was unveiled on June 11. Unlike the previous two 750s, the "Gray / Gum" model featured a luminescent sole, in addition to the gray upper.

Adidas Ultra Boost “Triple White”

Since the Adidas Ultra Boost “Triple White” was seen on Kanye West's feet at several shows last year, this model has become a hit in the Boost category. Strong demand for White color has allowed these sneakers to become one of the most revered Adidas silhouettes. The 2017 version received a slight tweak with a knitted upper and a few additional shades of gray.

Adidas Y-3 Pure BOOST ZG

Prue Boost ZG is released in the familiar mix of Primeknit fabrics, flowed through Yohji Yamamoto's design vision for a sophisticated black and white aesthetic.

Adidas NMD R1 Vintage White

The release of the Adidas NMD R1 Vintage White is an addition to the new NMD lineup. Although Adidas introduced quite a few cute versions of NMDs in 2017, these turned out to be some of the best and were well received by fans. Primeknit upper, oversized sole with signature tone-on-tone caps. We can't imagine summer 2017 without the Adidas NMD R1 sneakers.

We told you which Adidas sneakers are worth buying in 2017, and now the choice is yours. You can buy some of the presented models by

Adidas is one of the most successful and popular sports shoe manufacturers. Design, high quality and the use of new technologies will not leave anyone indifferent. The brand offers many models of men's, women's and children's sneakers, among which you can choose shoes for sports, as well as for everyday life.

The history of the brand begins in 1948 in Germany, when two brothers Adolf and Rudolf Dassler, who founded the Dassler company, had a fight. And since then, Adolf has already founded his own company, the name of which consisted in the combination of the first letters of his name and surname - "Adidas".

Initially, Adolf was actively involved in the production of footwear for football players - special boots with spikes, which were very popular among athletes. It was in this shoe that the players of the German national team played and won the world championship. Then the production of footwear for other sports began.

The 60s and 70s were the most successful years for the brand, as the Adidas sneakers gained universal recognition. After the death of Adolphe, the company went through a crisis, but already in the 90s, when investors from France acquired a controlling stake, the company acquired a second life. Since then, the brand has been a sponsor of many world sporting events, as well as equipping athletes.

Adidas sneaker production technology

The production of Adidas shoes is based on the anatomical features of the structure of the foot, as well as reducing the stress on the knees during sports. Therefore, for each type of Adidas sneakers, special technologies and materials are used that take into account the characteristics of certain sports.

High-quality materials are used for sewing the upper of shoes, which are distinguished by high strength, wear resistance, waterproofness and ventilation. Some models have an antibacterial system that fights germs when moisture rises in the shoe.

The manufacture of the outsole and insole is based on the specific purpose for which the shoe is designed. What they have in common is that the shoe adapts to surfaces and also provides high cushioning.

Special inserts provide support and stability for the feet without interfering with their movement.

Climate control is provided by ventilation, moisture removal and, therefore, cooling of the foot during exercise. At the same time, Adidas sneakers are reliably protected from snow, rain and wind, remaining dry and warm inside.

Men's sneakers Adidas

Men's running shoes are divided into four lines: Performance, Originals, NEO & Style and Porsche Design Sport.

Ruler Performance intended for sports and everyday life. Special technology ensures comfort, efficiency and safety during training. The collection has different uses - for football, basketball, running, tennis, fitness, athletics and outdoor activities.

In 2001, the line was released Sport Heritage (Originals) which is meant for everyday wear. But there are models of sneakers in which you can play sports. The main difference between the line is that new developments are not so actively carried out here, but it remains the most stylish and follows fashion trends.

Ruler NEO & Style appeared in 2008 and declared itself as the most fashionable. These sneakers are designed for everyday life, but some models are also suitable for sports events. Sports shoes can have both classic colors and bright elements. As a rule, the sole of these sneakers is dense and made of rubber.

Porsche design sport is a luxury line of Adidas men's sneakers. The partnership with Porsche began in 2006, and since then, technologies have been developed for these shoes that set this line apart from the rest. Firstly, the materials used are of premium quality, secondly, the insoles have an antibacterial layer, and thirdly, the models have a unique insole developed according to the BOUNCE system. It assumes an orthopedic midsole, which is responsible for the cushioning of the foot and its secure fit.

Women's sneakers Adidas

Women's sneakers also have four lines: Performance, Originals, NEO & Style and Stella McCartney.

Ruler Performance designed for sports - jogging, fitness, tennis, volleyball, athletics and outdoor activities. All shoe models are tailored to fit the female foot and provide excellent cushioning for the feet. High-quality materials and soles, made using special technologies that adapt to certain conditions, make this line the most popular among athletes.

Sneakers Adidas line Originals suitable for daily life. They not only have a stylish design, but also meet the anatomical features of women's legs, and are made of quality materials that keep feet dry in all weather conditions. Many of the women's models in this line are based on the famous men's models.

Bright colors and modern design are inherent in the line NEO & Style, which was created especially for a young audience. The combination of quality durable materials with mesh provides good breathability, which makes active walks more comfortable.

Ruler Stella McCartney created in collaboration with the famous English designer. The main difference between this line is the combination of sport and design ideas. The Adidas sneakers from this line are designed for fitness and running.

There are two lines in children's sneakers - Performance and Originals.

Like the adult line, the first is suitable for sports training, and the second for everyday life.

Most of the models are made of natural materials which are characterized by high wear resistance. Also, sports shoes have special orthopedic soles that allow you to evenly distribute the load on the child's foot.

Adidas sneaker models

The Adidas brand offers hundreds of models of sneakers for men and women, with different purposes - for sports, walking or outdoor activities. Seasonality, colors, decoration and design are not the only criteria that distinguish one model from another. Technology and materials also play an important role in the selection of athletic shoes.

ZXFlux Winter is a model of men's running shoes that has the Climaproof technology, which ensures water resistance. The upper material is high-quality suede that does not get wet. Internal inserts keep your feet firmly in place for increased comfort during long walks in winter.

In the Porsche Design Sport lineup, a special place is occupied by the model M Intermediate, which has a waterproof top, as well as PrimaLoft insulation. Despite the fact that the model belongs to the demi-season, due to its waterproofness and heat retention, it is perfect for winter weather as well.

Lined with real fur, Adidas NEO men's sneakers HoopsPremium have a high upper and a grooved sole that prevents your feet from sliding on snow or ice. The rounded toe cushions impacts while walking, and the laces keep the feet firmly in place.

CWCholean Sneaker- This is a popular model of women's insulated sneakers. Inside there is a special soft lining that makes it easier to walk without squeezing your legs, as well as a special insert that protects your feet from impacts.

For low temperatures a model of women's sneakers was developed Climaheat Winter Hiker II Climaproof... Embossed sole, raised leather upper ensure a comfortable fit in winter.

For temperatures down to -10 ° C, a shoe model is suitable AX2 MID GTX W... It is made of breathable synthetic material with mesh. At the same time, the shoe protects the foot from moisture access, and is also equipped with a ribbed sole .

Superstar- This is a popular model of Adidas summer men's sneakers, the release of which began in 1969. Genuine leather, rubberized toe, fabric inner lining combined with stylish design made this model a classic.

Stan Smith is another cult male model, made in three colors. These sneakers have a leather upper and rubber sole, and a rounded toe.

Men's running shoes Revenge Boost are distinguished by their lightness and good wear resistance. While you run, breathability and high cushioning are ensured by the foam in the midsole, which allows the outsole to adapt to any surface.

As well as among men, the female model is in great demand. summer sneakers Adidas - SuperstarW... They are made in the same style as the men, but taking into account the anatomical structure of the female leg. There are also various colors - white with three colored stripes, red, blue and gray.

Courtvantage is a female basketball model. The leather upper is paired with a chunky rubber outsole to bring the classic Rod Laver model to life, but more modern and refined.

The representative of the Originals line - the classic model Miss Stan, which interprets the famous Stan Smith model for the female leg. The outsole is vulcanized rubber, which is even more durable and wear-resistant.

Among all the men's lines, the Porsche Design Sport stands out, in which the model stands out Pilot III... For its production, only premium genuine leather is used. The insoles have an antibacterial coating, and the outsole is especially soft for comfort while driving.

ZX 750 is considered the best Adidas running shoe for men. The natural upper is paired with nylon overlays for breathability as you run, while the cushioned outsole provides good support legs.

Made from premium materials Hamburg refers to male lineup Originals. The upper is made of high quality genuine leather with nylon inserts.

Among women's leather models, it stands out Superstar 80s DLX... The top and lining are made of genuine leather. The sneaker style combines classic and vintage traditions.

Female shoe model Stan Smith made in the same style as for men. For the design of the top, premium genuine leather is used.

Leather sneakers Daily no wonder they got such a name. They are great for daily wear, as they are equipped with a soft insole, and natural leather allows the feet to breathe.

Adidas Top Ten H The i is the most sought-after men's high-top sneaker that reinterprets the famous Top Ten. They are great for everyday life by keeping your foot securely in place.

Pro Play 2 is a basketball shoe for men. The upper of the model is made of synthetic material with suede inserts in the form of three stripes, and the sole is made of durable rubber.

Sneakers occupy a special place in the NEO & Style line. Hoops... The design is reminiscent of the retro style of basketball models. The artificial upper is made from breathable material and the outsole is soft.

Attitude Revive- Women's version of the famous basketball shoes Adidas. The classic white or black color scheme is paired with a genuine leather upper and a thick rubber sole.

In collaboration with Brazilian designers, a female model was developed Veritas which is different in design from classic models... The bright colors are complemented by the image of a toucan head.

Baseline is a model from the NEO & Style line. The sole is flat and thin, the upper is artificial. This combination is suitable for urban environments.

Adidas wedge sneakers (for girls)

Wedge sneakers are the last fashion trend, which visually lengthens the legs. These shoes are suitable for everyday life. The height of the hidden platform can be different - from 3 to 9 cm, which allows the shoe to remain comfortable.

The most popular models are Superstar up and Super Wedge... In the first model hidden platform is 4 cm, in the second - 6.5 cm. Such Adidas sneakers will be combined not only with jeans, but also with some types of dresses or skirts.

Shoes have been designed specifically for running to reduce the likelihood of injury and improve performance.

The main features that Adidas running shoes have:

• height to the ankles, so that the top does not interfere when running and walking;
• light weight so that your legs do not get tired quickly;
• insole that repeats the shape of the foot, which allows the foot to be tightly fixed;
• an easily bendable sole to provide the feet with mobility while running;
• cushioning inserts in the toe and heel area to reduce stress on the knees and ankles while running;
• breathable material that provides good ventilation and dryness in shoes;
• the last and most important is the height of the sneakers from 5 cm, which reduces the load on the heels

Tennis shoes are for this sport only. These shoes should be as safe as possible and have a good fixation of the feet when jumping and running.

The main features of tennis shoes are:

• abrasion-resistant outsole with adiWEAR® technology, which keeps the shoe in good condition for up to 6 months of active use;
• durable material that does not allow the shoe to try in the area of ​​the toe and heel;
• GeoFIT is a technology that assumes precise fixation of the foot using special pads that envelop the heels, lateral and upper surface of the leg, which reduces the impact of impacts when jumping.

How to distinguish an original Adidas sneaker from a fake one?

Appearance is the first thing to pay attention to. The brand uses only high-quality materials that are easy to distinguish from cheap ones. There should also be a full match of the color and design of the shoes with the official website. Scratches, excess glue, uneven seams, and sloppy fittings are all signs of a fake.

Real sneakers have markings on the labels, as well as an article that does not repeat with other models. The SKU on the shoes must match the label, box and catalog.

The batch number, which is also a feature of the original shoe, is PO # 105863985.

The country of manufacture is not necessarily Germany, since production is established in third world countries, but the barcode will be German and start with the numbers 400-440.

The best place to buy original sneakers Adidas are official retail stores and online stores.

For an original way to determine that it is not a fake in front of you, see the video:

The cost of Adidas sneakers by types of models and presented lines vary.

The NEO & Style line is democratic, and the cost of women's models starts at 3,700 rubles (about $ 50). The Performance models are slightly more expensive and start at around RUR 4,000 ($ 55). Sneakers from the Originals line are in the middle price category among the rest - 4,700-10,000 rubles or 60-130 dollars. The most expensive line is Stella McCartney, models can cost up to 14,000 rubles ($ 180).

Adidas sneakers for men are in the same price range as for women. But the luxury line of Porsche Design Sport is distinguished by high prices - 16,000-22,000 rubles (210-290 dollars).

To compare prices, let's take other famous manufacturers of sports shoes:

• Nike: price range for male and female models of different lines - 3000-22000 rubles (35-300 dollars);
• New Balance: cost from 4,500 to 24,000 rubles (60-320 dollars);
• Puma: the price ranges from 3,000 to 9,000 rubles ($ 40-120);
• Reebok: price range - 3,300-10,000 rubles (45-130 dollars);
• Fila: the price range is small - from 3000 to 5000 rubles (35-70 dollars);
• Columbia: the cost varies from 5,000 to 9,000 rubles (70-120 dollars);
• K-swiss: the initial cost is 7,000 rubles, and the maximum is 17,000 rubles (90-220 dollars);
• Kappa: price range - 5000-9000 rubles (70-120 dollars).

Thus, Adidas sneakers have about the same cost as other manufacturers. The price of more expensive models does not exceed the cost of similar models from competing firms.