The tail end of 2022 was the year of the Samba if we're looking at footwear trends. It was all thanks to the usual it-girl suspects that skyrocketed the particular shoe to its current, almost sold-out status like Bella Hadid, Kaia Gerber etc. But being the highly coveted little sneaker it is, it has become increasingly difficult to get our hands on a pair, which is why we're doing a deep dive into Samba-adjacent silhouettes for those who either can't secure their own, or just don't want to look like everyone else.
The key to finding an appropriate Samba "dupe" is not to simply purchase any old low-top sneaker with the three adidas stripes on the side, it's to consider the shape, fit, texture and sole of the shoe to match the energy. The Samba gives an energy that aligns with a 70s sneaker silhouette, with a flatter, rubber sole feeling more synonymous with easy slip on 70s sneaker styles, and a round toe. Other considerations are things like the dual leather texture of the Samba, with a faux suede T-toe, the large tongue, and the lace closure.
Ticking just a few, or all of these boxes, will have you on the way to feeling like Bella in her peak "weird girl" era, or like Kaia Gerber carrying her Richard Powers book face up for the world to see as she makes her way somewhere. Either way, adding a new, extremely comfortable sneaker to your repertoire is never a bad call. Below, are our selects for the best shoes to buy as adidas Samba alternatives.
Onitsuka Tiger
Adidas Velosamba
The Row Black Owen City Sneakers
Maison Margiela Black Reebok Classics Edition of Memory Sneakers
Vans Black & Off White OG Classic Slip on Sneakers
Isabel Marant White Bryce Sneakers
Loewe Flow Runner Nylon and Suede Trainers
Comme Des Garcons Shirt Black Asics Edition OC Running Sneakers
Asics Gel Kayano 14 Mesh and Rubber Trainers
