SoleGRIND
| 👟 Sneaker Release Info | |
|---|---|
| Brand | adidas |
| Model | adidas Yeezy 500 |
| Colorway | officially Stone, Stone, and Stone |
| Release Date | November 23, 2019 |
| Retail Price | $200 |
| Available At | GOAT |
The Yeezy 500 has always been the quiet achiever in Kanye West’s adidas lineup. It doesn’t have Boost. It doesn’t have a Swoosh or a Jumpman. It’s just a chunky, retro-inspired runner that looks like something you’d see in a 1990s catalog. And honestly, that’s exactly why I like it. The “Stone” colorway that dropped on November 23rd, 2019 is one of the best examples of how good this silhouette can look when the color blocking is right.
The style code is FW4839, and the colorway is officially Stone, Stone, and Stone. Yes, that’s three times. This is a monochromatic build where the entire upper is done in a uniform beige, tan shade. The upper combines mesh, suede, and smooth leather panels, all in that same muted Stone tone. The reflective piping on the eyelets catches light in low-light conditions, which is a detail you don’t really notice until you see it in person.
Instead of Boost, the Yeezy 500 uses adiPRENE+ cushioning in the midsole. If you’ve never worn a pair, the feel is different from a Boost-based Yeezy. It’s firmer, more structured, and has a denser feel underfoot. Some people prefer Boost. I actually think adiPRENE works better for the 500’s aesthetic. The shoe has a chunky, utilitarian look that wouldn’t make sense with a soft, bouncy sole. The firm cushioning matches the industrial design language.
The release came in full family sizing, which was Kanye’s whole “everyone gets Yeezys” philosophy in action. Adult pairs retailed for $200, kids sizes came in at $130, and infant sizes were $100. The kids style code was FW4843 and infants was FW4849. This was a wide release, not a limited drop, which meant most people who wanted a pair at retail could actually get them. That said, the Stone colorway sold through quickly because the earthy tone resonated with the fall and winter crowd.
What I think makes the Stone colorway work so well is how versatile it is. The tan, beige tone goes with everything. Black jeans, olive cargos, grey sweatpants, navy chinos. It doesn’t matter. The monochromatic upper means the shoe blends into your fit instead of fighting with it. And the gum rubber outsole adds just enough warmth to keep the whole thing from looking flat. Some colorways need contrast to pop. The Stone just needs good lighting.
The construction quality on the Yeezy 500 is solid. The suede panels have a nice nap to them. The mesh underlays are tightly woven. The leather overlays feel substantial without being stiff. The stitching is clean throughout. For a $200 shoe, the materials punch above their weight class. This is one area where the Yeezy 500 consistently outperforms expectations.
The Stone colorway dropped alongside the “Soft Vision” and “Bone White” 500s as part of the Fall 2019 Yeezy lineup. Of the three, I think Stone has aged the best. Soft Vision was too purple for most people. Bone White was nice but showed dirt instantly. Stone hits that sweet spot where it looks good new, looks good worn, and works across every season. If you’re looking for a pair now, GOAT and Amazon both have listings available.
