With the weather heating up and dress codes changing, kickstart your summer collection with a Three Stripes sneaker.

From football pitches to fashion runways, adidas’ heritage styles have dominated the market thanks to high-profile collaborations and a wider appreciation of retro silhouettes. Alongside throwback styles, the German brand is responsible for some of the most in-demand summer shoes, perfect for by the pool or any off-duty look. 

The Samba

At more than 70 years old, the adidas Samba has passed the test of time. Originally made for Europe’s icy winter football pitches, the Samba has now broadened its appeal from football into fashion. The adidas Samba OG White Black uses a summer-ready white upper, effortlessly contrasting with Three Stripes branding and gold-foil lettering. Amassing a range of high-profile fans from Frank Ocean to Internet “It” girls, the Samba is the easy-wearing sneaker that will serve you all summer long. 

Try the adidas Samba OG Black White Gum for a muted take on the silhouette, taking everything you love about the Samba, and dressing it in a versatile pared-back colourway, ideal for summer and beyond. 

With the Samba continuing to reign supreme in 2023, the heritage style has been chosen for several high-profile collaborations. Notably, London brand Wales Bonner won over the notoriously difficult-to-please fashion crowd with her takes on the design. With another collaboration set to release soon, the London brand may be able to convince the fashion community to hang up their uncomfortable shoes altogether. 

The Gazelle 

Following the Samba’s success, another low-profile adidas silhouette has cemented itself as a fashion favourite: the adidas Gazelle was first released in 1968 but was not aligned with one specific sport. Being lightweight, durable and flexible meant it was adopted by athletes at the time. A suede construction allowed for easy dyeing, making the adidas Gazelle one of the first sneakers to be produced in bright colours. 

For a nod to the original release, try the adidas Gazelle Indoor Blue Bird. Crafted from a premium blue suede construction, this upper contrasts with a muted gum sole, perfect for all-season wear. The Gazelle’s timeless appeal makes for an ideal pairing with a range of looks from shorts in summer to athleisure and denim in winter. 

Recently the Gazelle has received a makeover in the form of a platform sole and pastel colour palette. The adidas Originals Women’s Gazelle Bold Green boasts a vibrant two-toned colourway, matching a green suede upper with lively pink accents. A platformed gum sole offers cushioning in a playful triple-stack style, where adidas branding can be seen peeking from the layer beneath. 

Much like the Samba, the Gazelle is a firm favourite in fashion circles, with the silhouette receiving a Harry Styles-approved Gucci collaboration. Try the adidas Gazelle x Gucci Original GG Beige Brown for a premium take on a retro sports sneaker. Releasing as part of a wider collection that tapped into both brand’s rich, logoed repertoires, the adidas Gazelle pairs timeless Three Stripes branding with a standout Gucci monogram print, culminating in a head-turning statement sneaker. 

The Yeezy Slide 

Until November 2022, rapper Kanye West worked with adidas on the Yeezy line. Bringing conceptual footwear design to a summer essential, the instantly recognisable Yeezy Slide is a must-have shoe this summer. Thanks to its neutral colourway, the Yeezy Slide Pure allows for any-outfit pairing, perfect for activity-filled days or relaxing by the pool. A serrated sole ensures grip, working alongside grooves inside the shoe to offer a secure fit. 

The Yeezy Slide comes in various colour options, from the neutral Pure to statement Glow Green and Englame Orange, offering a versatile colour palette for a range of wardrobes. Whether shopping for your beach statement or a cosy all-year-round go-to, the Yeezy Slide is the function-meets-fashion shoe your wardrobe deserves.