The world of adidas sneakers is vast, blending history, innovation and iconic style. Dive into the universe of two timeless icons: the adidas Samba and the adidas Gazelle. These two emblematic silhouettes have left an indelible mark on sneaker culture, each bringing its own touch to the rich adidas heritage. While both have been in the spotlight for several months alongside the adidas Spezial, the adidas Campus and the adidas Forum Low, it can sometimes be difficult to tell them apart with their similar constructions. If you are torn between all these current pairs, we have put together a list of information to help you make your choice, whether it concerns colorways, materials used or comfort. Discover the differences between the Samba and the Gazelle!
adidas Samba Characteristics
The Origin of the adidas Samba
The pair that went from football pitches to the feet of fashion fans has been rooted in the streetwear world for over 70 years. Indeed, this sneaker for women and men, which first appeared in the 1950s, features a textured brown gumsole that provided better grip on slippery surfaces. Today, its purpose has changed significantly, bringing a retro and elegant look to any outfit.
Design and Materials
You could not have missed the OG model which features a smooth white leather base showcasing the three stripes of the German sportswear brand. Right next to them, the gold "Samba" inscription echoes the Gazelle, which also has its model name displayed on the quarter panel. Another distinguishing element: the grey suede overlay on the toe box, giving the Samba its full personality. While the OG model remains the best seller with its relatively understated colorway, other iterations have emerged with red, green or blue panels on the three stripes and heel tab.
To expand its lineup and be more environmentally responsible, adidas extended its Samba sneaker range with an eco-friendly version made from vegan leather, without altering the shoe's appearance.
adidas Samba Partnerships
To revive the model and create unique pieces, the three-stripe brand has partnered with several renowned brands and designers such as Sporty & Rich, Wales Bonner, JJJJound, Pharrell Williams, and even Kith and Clarks on a triple collaboration. Naturally, the price of the resulting pairs goes well beyond that of a standard Samba. The OG model, which experienced a period of high demand driving up its price, is now available at €120 from most retailers.
adidas Samba OG "Cloud White"
Available at €120 on adidas
BuyWales Bonner x adidas Samba "Dark Brown"
Available on Wethenew
BuySporty & Rich x adidas Samba OG "White Core Burgundy"
Available on Wethenew
Buyadidas Samba Decon "Black White Gum"
Available at €150 on adidas
Buyadidas Gazelle Characteristics
The Origin of the adidas Gazelle
The adidas Gazelle, which emerged only a few years after the Samba, gets its name from its creator who described it as a "small and slender antelope." This rather versatile shoe, which borrows certain codes from its predecessor, was not designed for a specific sport, but it emerged at a time when the German brand was trying to make its way into the world of athletics. It has evolved slightly since its appearance in 1968, but has always retained its original features, establishing itself as one of the German brand's flagship models.
Design and Materials
Its shape allows the Gazelle to take on multiple looks and colorways, so that a multitude of iterations are available and everyone can find the one that suits them! The Gazelle is characterized by its clean design, quality materials and varied color palette. This model also features the three stripes on the side of the shoe, but on this one, the adidas logo and branding are placed on the heel. Finally, the usually white rubber sole sometimes gives way to a brown gumsole that displays the German brand's name when special editions emerge. The advantage of this pair lies in its lightness and flexibility, along with its OrthoLite® insoles, making it perfect for everyday wear.
The Different adidas Gazelle Models
Its timeless silhouette allows for playful variations. This includes color combinations, but also shape transformations, notably on the Gazelle Bold, which are platform pairs often paired with flashy or pastel colors.
Two collaborations have recently made a strong impression. These are the adidas Gucci Gazelle, which are true gems with their monograms and contrasting colorways, and the Sean Wotherspoon Gazelle made from sustainable materials, featuring worked uppers with pop-inspired designs, the designer's signature. As with the Samba, resale prices for collaboration editions tend to be very high, considering the initial retail price for a basic colorway is €120.
adidas Gazelle Indoor "Blue Dawn Burgundy"
Available on Wethenew
Buyadidas Gazelle Indoor "Collegiate Green"
Available at €120 on adidas
Buyadidas Gazelle Bold "Pink Glow"
Available on Wethenew
Buyadidas Gazelle Indoor "Black"
Available at €120 on adidas
BuyThe adidas Spezial and adidas Campus Models
It is worth noting that other models are close to the Samba and Gazelle, such as the Spezial and the Campus. Each has its own specifics, with unique colorways and different support levels. On the adidas Spezial side, you can feel better support linked to the origin of its creation: Handball. On the Campus side, there was no sport directly tied to its creation, making it a versatile and fairly durable shoe despite its nubuck upper. Also, for over a year now, a new version of the Campus called the Campus 00s has been appealing to both women and men, thanks to its wide color palette and more modern appearance with its wide laces and padded tongue.
So, Which adidas Model Should You Choose?
As you can see, each pair has fairly similar characteristics but differs in the sport it belongs to and the materials used. While sneakers were originally created to boost athletic performance, the adidas Samba, Gazelle, Spezial and Campus are more likely to be found on street corners on the feet of sneakerheads, or anyone wishing to adopt one of these retro models.
It is up to you to decide whether you prefer the understated Samba, the bold Gazelle, the sturdy Spezial or the versatile Campus. Feel free to use our comparator to buy any of these pairs at the best price!
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