18 December 2024
ummer 2023 was undoubtedly the season of Adidas Sambas. The viral sneaker style has been trending for a while, but it seems like in recent months, we've seen some variation of Sambas everywhere we look. We're not saying that's a bad thing: There's a reason the "it-sneaker" is so popular, given its retro design, affordable price tag, and wearability. Pair that with their go-to status among trendsetting celebrities like Bella and Gigi Hadid, Emma Chamberlain, and countless influencers, and we have a bona fide hit on our hands—but the downside is the shoe is hard to find and can go for double the price on resale sites. That being said, it might be time to look at similar-but-different options to Adidas Sambas for fall. We've searched Adidas and other go-to sneaker brands and found some of our favorite sneakers that give off the Samba vibe in their own way. Scroll on for 12 Sambas sneaker alternatives to shop right now.
Adidas Velosamba
Adidas Velosamba Vegan Cycling Shoes $130.00 $98.00
SHOPThe Adidas Velosambas are almost dead ringers for the original Sambas design. The only difference is that these sneakers were designed specifically for cyclists, hence the two-bolt cleats on the bottom, which can click into your bicycle. You definitely don't need to be a biker to rock these sneakers, though. They're great city shoes, and we love that the vegan upper is coated for water resistance.
Adidas Gazelle
Adidas Gazelle Shoes $100.00
SHOPThe Adidas Gazelles were first released in the '90s, but the brand has brought the style back as an archive edition. This may be a controversial take, but we wouldn't be surprised if the Gazelles soon become the most coveted Adidas sneakers. The design doesn't stray far from the Sambas, but the suede upper feels like a perfect fit for fall.
New Balance RC30
New Balance RC30 Sneakers $100.00 $83.00
SHOPIf Adidas is the go-to sneaker brand right now, New Balance isn't far behind. While the brand's Sambas sneaker alternatives may be more functional than fashionable, they're great walking shoes, which we certainly value. Some influencers have even paired the shoes with sundresses and skirts, in the spirit of the wrong shoe theory.
Gola Elan
Gola Elan Sneakers $110.00
SHOPGola's sneakers are a more under-the-radar version of Adidas Sambas. Our favorite part is that they come in a whole range of fun colors. Like Adidas Gazelles, these sneakers are also made with suede, giving them a retro feel.
Adidas Originals + Wales Bonner SL72
Adidas Originals + Wales Bonner SL72 Leather-Trimmed Suede and Mesh Sneakers $180.00
SHOPAdidas's collaboration with Wales Bonner gave us the most talked-about sneaker of the summer (the metallic silver Sambas), but these knit low tops are also getting lots of love. The brown style with red accents gives off all the fall vibes, so these sneakers are welcome Sambas alternatives.
Puma Select Suede Classic XXI
Puma Select Suede Classic Xxi Sneakers $75.00
SHOPThis style of Puma sneakers, dubbed "The Suede," was released in 1968, yet the style remains just as relevant today. These classic shoes are great for daily wear, whether paired with jeans and a sweater or even a maxi dress. Plus, you can't beat that price point.
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 Sneakers $120.00
SHOPWant to jump on the next trend? Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66s are almost as hard to get as Sambas. The ultra-popular shoes appeal to all genders and ages, much like their Adidas counterparts. The black and white variant is great for everyday, but the yellow and black version, also known as the "Kill Bill shoe" (IYKYK), is having a moment.
Adidas Originals Handball Spezial
Adidas Originals Handball Spezial Sneakers $110.00
SHOPThe Handball Spezial sneakers from Adidas closely resemble Sambas, but the sole was created with handball players in mind. Even if you aren't wearing these shoes on the court, they're just as stylish as the Sambas, plus they come in striking color options like this bright blue and red pair.
BrandBlack No Name
BrandBlack No Name Sneakers $135.00
SHOPBrandBlack has quickly become a name to know in the sneaker world. These fashionable yet sporty sneakers are just as easy to wear as Sambas, with some key differences. For one, this is a platform sneaker style. The Samba is a very flat shoe, so if you're looking for a little lift, this might be a great option.
Keds x Staud The Court Sneaker
Keds x Staud The Court Sneakers $125.00
SHOPKeds is having a renaissance of sorts thanks to high-profile collaborations, like this one with Staud. These sneakers are designed for courts (pickleball courts, that is), but the style is sleek enough to wear every day. We definitely plan to jump on the Keds train this fall.
Adidas Campus 00s Sneaker
Adidas Campus 00s Sneaker $110.00
SHOPAdidas's Campus 00s are becoming just as popular as the Sambas and the Gazelles. These are designed with skateboarding in mind, so they're a bit more durable, and they'll mold to your feet over time. Also, given the current onslaught of Y2K trends, these shoes are only going to grow in popularity—trust us.
LØCI Neo
LØCI Neo Sneakers $245.00
SHOPNot only are LØCI's sneakers incredibly cool looking, but they're also ethically made, which makes them all the better. While they're a bit pricier than Sambas, the brand's focus on sustainability is a major plus and worth the investment if you're into this design. We love the accent colors, which add a fun pop to the otherwise white sneakers.