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History of the adidas Samba & Styling Guide

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History of the adidas Samba & Styling Guide

May 14, 2025

Next to the Stan Smith and the Superstar, the Three Stripes has another iconic sneaker — the adidas Samba. And these kicks are starting to take over everyone’s shoe rack, thanks to trendsetters like Hailey Bieber, Rihanna and Kendall Jenner. If you’re wondering about the comfort of the shoe or how to style the adidas Sambas, we can help.

adidas Samba

History of adidas Samba

Designed in the late 1940s by adidas founder Adi Dassler, the Samba is the oldest Three Stripes style. Prior to its invention, early- to mid-20th-century football players had a hard time gaining traction on icy pitches. Their shoes lacked traction, and Dassler saw an opportunity. Around 1950, the brand crafted a boot with a kangaroo leather upper and added an innovative (and unprecedented) gum outsole to help players retain grip while playing on frozen grounds. Its long tongue was meant to protect the laces and provide a cleaner strike area for kicking the ball.

 

In the 1970s, the adidas Samba we now know and love came into being and gained popularity. Soft padding in the heel and ankle, a low cut leather vamp and three-zone outsole gave wearers optimal protection, great grip and stability — a perfect option for soccer players or casual wearers. 

 

More than 70 years later, the Samba is just as popular as ever. So much so, in fact, that they can be hard to find due to the high demand.

Fit & Features: Are adidas Sambas Comfortable?

Known for their snug, low-profile fit, adidas Sambas tend to run true to size for most people, although some with wider feet might find them a bit narrow at first. The upper is typically made from soft leather or suede, which molds to the foot over time. The sturdy rubber sole not only provides good traction but also adds a bit of cushioning, making them the perfect choice for all-day wear. 

While originally designed as indoor soccer shoes, modern Sambas have evolved into lifestyle sneakers, and their comfort reflects that dual purpose. They don’t offer the same plush cushioning you’d find in running shoes, but they strike a solid balance between support and style. Learn more about how they measure up to other silhouettes like the Gazelle here.

adidas Sambas

How to Wear adidas Sambas

The versatility of adidas Samba sneaks makes them a go-to shoe, whether you’re running to the grocery store or putting together an outfit for an evening get-together. Here are a few styling suggestions for these quintessential lifestyle sneakers:

Shop Hibbett for the latest and greatest selection of adidas Sambas, along with all your other favorite adidas Originals lifestyle sneakers!

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