Adidas’ Samba unanimously reigns as 2023’s fledging sneaker trend, beloved by both avid supporters of the Three-Stripes and the street-fashion core. Conceived through the vision of brand founder Adi Dassler, the pair is no stranger to the rugged terrain, considering its original Futsal intent.
Instagram: @adidasph
Debuting on the international stage during Brazil’s 1950 FIFA World Cup, Adidas would introduce the pair’s iconic moniker drawn from an indigenous Brazillian dance and music genre—transitioning into the athletic artistry on the hard court. The timeless street style icon would undergo several design changes throughout its 73-year existence to achieve its familiar present appearance, on and off the pitch.
The classic silhouette nears its 75th anniversary, resurrecting into the mainstream, brought forth by a wave of collaborations. From Wales Bonner in 2020 to Palace’s Puig Samba, the once seemingly “outdated” silhouette sits comfortably in the driver’s seat of the current sneaker landscape.
Its push in the modern-day
Instagram: @kith
Unlike the choices of “OG” sneakerheads, the Adidas Samba is an unorthodox yet promising choice, given its raw organicness. Its minimalist composition, structure, and price-friendly (of course, subtracting exclusive releases and resellers) properties make it desirable for many—observed on the toes of the streets.
With Nike’s recurring Air Force 1 Low bid or Reebok’s iconic Club C, the Sambas delectably sit among the industry favorites as Adidas’ rather unpurposeful entrant towards the mainstream. Considered the brand’s second most-sold model (after the Adidas Stan Smith), a convergence of subtle and eccentric colorways adapts to its demand as more influences slate its canvas.
Acquiring the adidas icon
Early 2023 braced for cover, considering the skyrocketing demand for the original Samba, as the sneakersphere (like always) was quick to react.
While the supposed general release captures a more “exclusive” reception, its rather affordable price tag (₱6,800 for the Adidas Samba OG Men’s) for a trendy footwear option draws attention to supporters of the movement. Witnessing them on shelves may come once in a blue moon, so best to check local retailers and official distributors (such as Adidas, Commonwealth, and Foot Locker) to avoid possible markups.
Its full-grain leather and suede upper may draw susceptibility to stains in creases, supplementing its tasteful retro intent. Comfortability complements its trendiness through its low-top profile look grounded on utility and ease in stride.
The continuous rise
Going with the flow of vintage tides may have also caused its re-emergence. Its sleek appearance welcomes the versatility of style and inclusivity of flavors. It strays from being a possible “dad-core” candidate, though it exhibits the qualities of eccentric street style beloved by many.
Dressed up or down, the silhouette’s mainstream proponent makes it much accessible, though quite saturated when attempting to stand out (considering it’s Adidas’ second-most sold sneaker of all time). Eluding its “basic” distinction, the Adidas Samba’s timelessness and rich colorway-collaboration spectrum will continuously pose as a canvas for personal expression.
Instagram: @davidguison
Instagram: @idaandu
Instagram: @hanerichmarmol
Instagram: @sofiajahrling
Instagram: @iamjeffong
Instagram: @iamrheabue
Instagram: @zachdeveraa
Instagram: @kelseymerritt
