Words by Suzie Bakos
After a huge 2023, adidas is poised for another big year of trending sneakers in 2024. The momentum of models like the Samba, Gazelle and Campus show no signs of slowing, as a steady slate of coveted collaborations and great-looking general releases continue to bring attention to the brand and its iconic low-profile, three-stripe designs.
‘Look for exciting collaborations from Wales Bonner and Sporty & Rich in 2024 to bring even more hype to the Samba,’ says Stadium Goods’ resident sneaker expert Zack Schlemmer. Here, he shares his edit of the season’s highly anticipated releases.
adidas Samba OG ‘Beige/Gum’
The Samba, like many of adidas’ sneakers, started its story in sport. It was created in 1949 to provide traction for footballers on icy pitches and was introduced at the 1950 World Cup in Brazil. From there, it evolved into a style favored by indoor footballers, then skateboarders in the 90s.
Fast-forward to today, and while the adidas Samba is still popular among sportspeople, it’s a key style for fashion lovers too, thanks to its various collaborations over the years.
‘By now, most Samba fans have the basic black and white colorway,’ Schlemmer says. ‘But if you’re looking to expand your rotation with something a little different but just as versatile, go with this clean version in beige leather with a gum sole.’
Shop this style and many more colorways on FARFETCH now, available in US sizes 4.5 to 13.5.
Wales Bonner x adidas Samba ‘Fox Brown Nylon’
2020 marked the first collaboration between adidas and British designer Grace Wales Bonner. This exciting new duo created a hype-worthy iteration of the iconic Samba silhouette and they haven’t stopped since.
Staying true to the foldover tongue, three stripes and gum rubber outsole design, the newest rendition of the adidas x Wales Bonner collaboration is a highlight for Schlemmer.
‘One of the styles from the coveted Wales Bonner x adidas collection of 2023, this premium, limited-edition Samba features a unique reddish-brown hue and is constructed in a combination of nylon and suede. The light-blue interior adds an elegant final touch.’
Now available on FARFETCH in US sizes 4.5 to 13.
Sporty & Rich x adidas Samba ‘White/Core Burgundy’
Founded by designer Emily Oberg, Sporty & Rich create easy-to-wear pieces for both gym classes and casual days out. Coming together with the sneaker giant, the pared-back Sporty & Rich aesthetic is very much present in this latest collaboration. So, where does Schlemmer see this new version coming to life?
‘When you’re feeling sporty, rich, or both, this is definitely the Samba for you. Combining luxury and sportswear aesthetics, this is the perfect sneaker to throw on for your walk to the gym, market or wherever else.’
When it comes to womens’ adidas trainers, this style is a great choice and is now available on FARFETCH in US sizes 3.5 to 14.
adidas Gazelle Indoor ‘Bright Yellow/Collegiate Burgundy’
The adidas Gazelle remains one of the house’s most sought-after styles since its inception in the 60s. This minimalistic sneaker is coveted by sneakerheads the world over thanks to its clean silhouette and versatile design.
It was the first adidas shoe to be made from suede — at the time, training shoes were usually leather. The suede construction made the shoe lighter and more supple while maintaining the integrity of the style and providing protection for the foot. By the 70s, the Gazelle was one of the brand’s most popular models and the shoe we see now is a take on the 1991 version, with adidas reissuing many of its original colorways from that time.
Today, the iconic sneaker is offered in an array of eye-catching hues and a blend of materials, such as this yellow and burgundy combination.
‘When you want the classic adidas look with a pop of color, this Gazelle Indoor in bright yellow suede is the sneaker to go for,’ says Schlemmer.
Now available on FARFETCH in sizes 4 to 11.
Sean Wotherspoon x adidas Gazelle Indoor ‘Collegiate Green’
When sneaker designer and collector Sean Wotherspoon first revealed he was collaborating with adidas back in 2020, the sneaker world went crazy. Fast forward to today and the Los Angeles-based designer is now on his third Gazelle design.
In a brand-new colorway for the season ahead, what does Schlemmer think of this fresh take?
‘Constructed in a durable hemp material with unique stitching throughout the upper, the Gazelle Indoor has had a funky makeover courtesy of Sean Wotherspoon,’ he says.
Discover more mens’ adidas trainers on FARFETCH now, available in US sizes 6 to 13.5.
Kith x Clarks x adidas 8th Street Samba ‘KITHmas’
Sneakerheads were overjoyed in spring 2023 when the first three-way collaboration between New York-based retailer Kith, Clarks and adidas was unveiled — and later in the year another historical style was dropped: the 8th Street Samba KITHmas 2023.
So why all the hype? ‘As you can see, the result of this collab is far from the classic Samba,’ notes Schlemmer. ‘Built in premium suede and leather for the upper, the sole is designed in Clarks’ signature soft crepe rubber for a unique look and comfortable feel.’
Now available on FARFETCH in US sizes 5 to 13.
In terms of size and fit – adidas tend to run true to size, so take your usual in all of these models.