The Adidas Samba Begins 2024 in Nylon Instead Of Leather
The Adidas Samba was named Shoe of the Year for the 2023 FN Achievement Awards, and the silhouette is quickly beginning 2024 with a new look.
Two versions of the Samba releasing this week see the sneaker’s leather upper replaced with nylon. The olive pair gets contrasting hits from a gum cupsole and off-white forming the mustache, Three Stripes, and additional branding hits. The blue pair opts for a monochromatic look, as a grey sockliner marks one of the few deviations from the all-blue look. Both versions of the sneaker, however, feature reflective detailing for the mustache and Three Stripes motif, which will give them a new look when hit with light.
Adidas also says both versions of the sneaker feature “at least” 20 percent recycled content.
Reaching back to summer 2022, the Samba trend reached even greater heights throughout 2023 through both high-profile collaborations and simple in-line colorways that the masses couldn’t quit. The resurgence of the silhouette only adds to its long history, as the Samba made its debut in the 1949 as an on-pitch shoe for soccer. It was later repurposed for indoor soccer and as a lifestyle staple for fans of the sport, and the only model that rivals the Samba’s longevity is the Converse Chuck Taylor.
In his acceptance speech at the FN Achievement Awards, Adidas CEO Bjorn Gulden said: “To the Nike people in the room, watch out. We have a lot in the pipeline… not a joke.” That should include the continuation of new ideas for the Samba, in addition to other developments that can’t yet be anticipated.
The nylon Adidas Sambas will release Wednesday, Jan. 3, through Adidas’ website. Pricing is set at $120.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
