Some trends ignite like wildfire, seemingly taking over the world overnight—and that’s precisely what has happened with Adidas Samba shoes. These unisex sneakers have become a cult favorite among fashion enthusiasts, including professional stylists, celebrities, and even some of us humble Underscored editors. (I admit, I caved and bought a pair while researching this story!)
Read on to discover why style experts believe the Samba sneaker is so enduring, how to style them, and the best colors to grab before they sell out.
Adidas Samba OG Shoes
These classic white sneakers have truly stood the test of time. These days, you’ll spot the sporty style on everyone from top models to star athletes.
$100 at Adidas
What is the Adidas Samba Shoe?
The Adidas Samba shoe we know today was launched in 1972 as a sports sneaker tailored for soccer (or football, to honor Adidas’ German roots). However, its origins trace back to 1950, when the first version featured three outsole suction cups designed for optimal traction on snowy and icy fields. This initial model earned the nickname “Samba,” a name that has endured through the decades. Those distinctive three divots remain a signature feature of the Samba sneakers, which, while now often seen on city streets, are also favored for indoor soccer and skateboarding due to their grip and agility.
Why is the Adidas Samba So Popular?
The Adidas Samba isn’t the first athletic style from the brand to become a seasonal favorite—Stan Smiths also made waves—but what accounts for its current popularity?
Fashion insiders and stylists attribute its appeal largely to one key quality: versatility.
“Not only are they incredibly comfortable to wear, but Sambas come in a wide array of colors, making them the perfect choice for anyone seeking a versatile sneaker,” explains fashion writer Belle Bakst.
Chicago-based stylist Katie Schuppler adds, “That effortless yet polished look, combined with comfort, is something we all strive for, especially during our downtime.” She also highlights the nostalgia associated with the style, which resonates with many.
“For me, wearing Adidas sneakers, particularly the Samba silhouette, brings back memories of childhood—getting matching pairs with my cousins as we all aspired to look like our favorite soccer players. Sambas were a part of everyday life for many,” shares Kevin Ponce, digital managing editor of V magazine. “They stand out because it’s hard to overlook something that has been a staple in countless wardrobes since their inception. You’ll see them on everyone from rock stars to influencers, yet they never feel tired—much like a classic plain white T-shirt.”
Another significant factor is the price. The original Samba retails for $100 and is available at numerous retailers, including Dick’s Sporting Goods and Nordstrom. “The accessible price point makes it easy for everyone to engage with this trend,” says Benjamin Almeter, founder and managing director of Dispatch, who owns three pairs. “Adidas’ endless collaborations and color options allow you to find something unique that you can make your own.”
How to Style an Outfit with Adidas Samba Shoes
Celebrity stylist Ron Hartleben, who owns three pairs of Samba shoes, notes their remarkable versatility, likening them to “a more grown-up version of Vans Authentic.” He explains that compared to the bright white Stan Smiths, the slim silhouette of the Samba offers a chic, understated look that can seamlessly complement various outfits.
“The slimmer profile pairs just as well with winter trousers as it does with a slip skirt or midi dress in warmer weather,” says Lauren Black, a digital marketing manager at a contemporary fashion brand. “I love how they can elevate any basic outfit with a nod to current trends.”
Katie Schuppler points to the influence of it-girls like Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Kaia Gerber, and Hailey Bieber, alongside timeless icons like Sienna Miller and Rihanna, for the sneaker’s resurgence. These celebrities serve as excellent style inspiration, showcasing how the Sambas can be integrated into a wide range of looks. No matter how you choose to wear them, you really can’t go wrong.
Our favorite Adidas Samba shoes
Adidas Samba OG Shoes in Black
It doesn’t get more classic than black and white. Black says her first pair of Sambas were in the Core Black color, which she says are “admittedly a little harder to style but do add extra edge.”
$100 at Adidas
$100 at Revolve
$100 at Dick’s Sporting Goods
Adidas Samba OG in Court Green
Nikita Charuza, a fashion and beauty editor and the founder of Squigs, owns the Samba OG in the currently sold-out Collegiate Green color, but we found this hard-to-come-by suede alternative too.
“My husband actually got them for our anniversary because I had been talking about them for months on end,” she says. “I usually don’t opt for color, but the forest green hue matches everything. I wore [the shoes] to a panel with a fancy dress in the morning and with sweats to the airport at night.”
$141 at Farfetch
Adidas Samba OG in Cloud White/Better Scarlet
Black also loves her scarlet-striped Sambas for a pop of color. The subtle red, white and blue coordination gives them a classic feel.
$100 at Adidas
$100 at Nordstrom
Adidas x Sporty & Rich Samba OG
“The buildup around [the Samba’s] resurgence has been burning low and slow over the last few years and seems to be propelled by exciting collaborations,” Almeter says.
Take these co-branded Adidas x Sporty & Rich Samba shoes that Ponce loves. They put a luxe spin on the original design, with the three-stripe insignia in burgundy suede and Sporty & Rich in gold lettering.
From $151 at Farfetch
Adidas Samba OG Shoes in Cloud White/Collegiate Green
Almeter is right: A big part of the hype around Samba sneakers are the collaborations and limited runs of certain colors. He snagged a pair of the Mexico National Team Edition Sambas — but this dark green striped version offers a similar look, and it’s not sold out (yet).
$100 at Adidas
$100 at Foot Locker
Adidas Samba OG Shoes in White/Magic Beige
Along with his classic white with black stripe and white with green stripe pairs, Hartleben also has this exclusive neutral color combination. While it’s currently sold out, you can go for a low-key look with the monochrome sand-colored version too.
$150 at Adidas
Adidas Samba OG Shoes Kids
The classic style is for the kids too. Available in children’s and grade-school sizes, why not coordinate with the whole family?
And a pro tip: Many of the boys’ grade-school sizes are equivalent to women’s shoe sizes, so if your favorite color is sold out, check the boys’ section. For example, the pair I ordered were a boys’ size 5 (I’m a women’s 7) and they fit like a glove. You’ll save some money this way too.
$70 at Adidas
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