After recently becoming one of the industry’s most sought-after sneakers, the demand for trending adidas Sambas shows no signs of slowing down. Worn by countless influencers and well-known celebrities, there’s no doubt that the Samba has taken top spot within everyone’s current rotation. Here, we take a look at the Samba’s iconic history, game-changing moments and long-lasting legacy.
Unveiled in 1949, the adidas Samba was designed by the German brand’s founder Adolf Dassler and made its debut at Brazil at the World Cup of 1950. The all-new sneaker design was unnamed at the time and was eventually named after a dance which was ingrained in the roots of the host country’s rich dance culture. The adidas Samba was also first created to provide grip on frozen terrains, with the initial shoe featuring a kangaroo leather and a durable gum outsole.
Following its inception, the streamlined Samba was quickly altered to serve as an indoor football training shoe, as opposed to its initial intentions of being a durable outdoor option for use in extreme weather conditions. This significant shift saw the Samba receive a more distinctive identity which led to its success in the world of sport.
Later on in the ‘90s, keen skateboarders adopted the adidas Samba as they favoured the model’s durable makeup and gum sole unit for grip on their boards. By 2006, the sporty sneaker had become so popular in the skateboarding realm that adidas decided to craft a Samba-inspired silhouette that was specifically tailored towards skating – the Busenitz.
Now, the adidas Samba has officially been reclaimed as a fashion-forward sneaker but still showcases OG design aspects from its ‘50s football training roots. Having received many modern updates in the form of platform offerings and providing the base for a handful of exciting collaborations, the Samba has well and truly been welcomed into the world of fashion.
Stand-Out Sambas
adidas Samba OG White Black
Arguably the Samba that kickstarted the trend, the adidas Samba OG White Black is a minimalistic must-have for every collection. Its smooth leather base is accented with a premium suede overlay and signature adidas branding. Complete with classic laces and a dark gum sole unit, this versatile Samba sneaker will instantly elevate any everyday outfit.
adidas Samba OG Black White Gum
Staying true to original Samba offerings, the adidas Samba OG Black White Gum is perfect for smart styling. Taking on a bold black colourway, this sneaker champions retro aesthetics with a premium construction consisting of leather and suede panelling. Grounded with the silhouette’s signature gum sole which houses classic cushioning, the adidas Samba OG Black White Gum is rounded off with a secure lace closure.
adidas Samba x Sporty & Rich Beige Blue
Created in partnership with LA-based fashion label Sporty & Rich, the adidas Samba x Sporty & Rich Beige Blue puts a premium spin on the football training model. Detailed with co-branded touches, its mixed-material upper comes complete with vibrant sidewall stripes and a gold-toned hang tag. Finished with a vintage-style gum sole and classic laces, this collaborative Samba will never fail to impress.