It is the IT piece of the season: the Adidas Samba. The classic slick football shoe from the German Sports brand is everywhere at the moment. We at casual-closet are also totally in love with these sneakers. Both men and women look absolutely stunning in this shoe. But we are here to look into the crystal ball and evaluate alternatives for adidas samba.
What Makes the Adidas Samba so Popular?
The Adidas Samba was originally designed as an indoor soccer shoe. It was introduced in 1950 in Germany as the “Adidas Samba” named after the Brazilian samba dance to reflect the shoe’s intended use on indoor soccer pitches. The Samba was created to provide soccer players with better traction on hard, icy surfaces.
The Samba transcended its soccer origins and became a cultural icon. It was worn not only on soccer fields but also on the streets as a casual and fashionable shoe. It found a significant following in various parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and South America.
Today, the sneaker is the absolute TikTok favorite. But not only that. Celebrities from Zendaya, Jacob Elordi or Asap Rocky wear this shoe in different variations. While we also love to pair it with our fresh Fall outfits, we feel like it is time to look into alternatives in addition to the classic Adidas Samba.
What Are Alternatives to Adidas Samba?
Like it is with most trends, at some point they seem a bit overdone. That doesn’t mean that the Samba is not a good staple anymore, but for anyone that wants something different for Fall should take a closer look at our alternatives to the popular Adidas Samba.
1. Adidas Spezial
This is probably the closest thing to a Samba without it actually being the Adidas Samba. The Adidas Spezial gives of a bit more casual vibe than the Samba with a thicker sole and the suede leather all over. Still this is a very classic model from Adidas that we are willing to pull out season after season again.
2. New Balance RC30
This sneaker sparked some controversy in our team, but the lovers outnumbered the haters. The sole of this New Balance RC30 is nothing we have seen before. But when worn, this detail gives just that bit of a more interesting look while still being a very versatile look. We are excited to know if you love or hate this shoe.
3. Adidas Gazelle
Here we have another close fit to the Samba. Adidas has a wide range of these classic tennis shoes. While this might seem like same same but different, there are definitely some design variations when comparing the both. Like the Spezial, the Gazelle is made of full suede leather, the Adidas logo is put on the back of the shoe. Most probably the biggest difference are the soles, the sole of the Samba is made out of a lightweight foam, while the Gazelle comes with a rubber sole. In this case, it is probably best to see them both in person, if you’re still on the verge of which one to get. Or maybe go for something more different, like our next pick.
4. Reebok Club C 85 Vintage Sneaker
This Reebok sneaker might be an even more elegant and timeless version of the Adidas Samba. If you are not that into the mix of materials and the stereotypical Adidas stripes, this is certainly the option to go for, that is also very affordable.
5. Puma Delphin Sneakers
For anyone that feels like the Adidas Samba is a bit too bland, and you want to mix in some color to their wardrobe, this fun sneaker from Puma might be it. The cut of the shoe is very similar to the Adidas Samba, maybe just a bit broader. But what makes these sneakers special are the colorways they come in. Go click on the link to see the other options.
6. Autry Medalist
For our next pick, we went the classic route again. These sneakers from Autry have become a staple in some wardrobes, but we feel like they don’t yet get the hype they really deserve. Just like the Adidas Samba we see a mix of materials and neutral colors in this shoe, but in a more toned down way. This makes these sneakers a bit more sophisticated and you might be the only person in the room wearing them.
7. Nike Blazer Low ’77
For our seventh pick we wanted to give a shout-out to the Nike classic Blazers. They are definitely the most comparable pair of trainers to the Adidas Samba. So if you are loyal to Nike or just can’t do the Adidas stripes, this is the pair for you. Plus, if you like the look, but want a high top sneaker instead, these sneakers are also available in that look.
8. adidas campus 00s
A nod to the iconic style of the 2000s, the adidas campus 00s boast a timeless design with modern updates. Featuring a durable suede upper and the signature three-stripe detailing, the adidas 00s Campus delivers both style and comfort. Whether you’re hitting the streets or adding a sporty edge to your casual ensemble, these sneakers are a versatile choice.
9. Puma suede XL leather sneaker
Crafted with premium leather for durability and a luxurious feel, the puma suede XL leather sneaker kicks offer an elevated take on a classic silhouette. With their iconic Puma Formstrip and sleek design, the suede XL leather sneakers are sure to turn heads wherever you go. Whether you’re hitting the streets or adding a sporty edge to your ensemble, these kicks provide unparalleled comfort and versatility.
10. adidas bali
In the realm of iconic sneaker alternatives to the beloved adidas Samba, the adidas Bali emerges as a compelling contender. Embracing a fusion of retro aesthetics with contemporary flair, the Bali sneaker encapsulates a stylish evolution of vintage charm. Crafted with premium materials, it ensures both durability and comfort, making it an ideal choice for diverse urban settings. Sporting the unmistakable adidas three-stripe detailing and a timeless silhouette, the Bali seamlessly blends fashion-forward design with functional appeal.
**Disclosure: We only recommend products we would use ourselves, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
