Guide Note

Adidas Micropacer Shoes were introduced in 1984 as cutting edge running shoes, the first on the market with a built-in microprocessor. In 2007 and 2008, the Micropacer was reissued with the same design, but new styling.

Fast Facts

1. Running shoes with built-in microcomputer
2. Original issue in 1984
3. Early 2008 reissue is "Flavors of the World" Venice Carnival Edition
4. Made of leather, nylon, and suede
5. Retail: $250

• 1984: The original Micropacer contains a microprocessor mounted over the tongue of the left shoe, with pedometer, stopwatch and LCD display. The model will eventually be sought after by sneaker collectors, and sit on exhibit at Boston's Computer History Museum.

• 2000: Adidas first reissues the Micropacer as a limited edition of 600.

• 2007: Micropacer is reissued again, with the same design, but slightly different styling, and a microprocessor that includes a range finder.

• 2008: As part of Adidas' "Flavors of the World" series, the Micropacer is released as a limited Venice Carnival Edition, with styling that includes silhouettes of birds on the back and side panels.