adidas Samba Guide: The OG and Its Close Cousins

adidas Samba Guide: The OG and Its Close Cousins

The adidas Samba is one of the most recognisable sneakers in the world, and this guide shows the many versions in one place. Browse adidas Samba pairs from the OG to the LT and the lesser-known cousins. Pick the version that suits your style and your usual outfits.

Samba, start to finish

The adidas Samba was designed in 1949 by Adi Dassler as a football shoe for icy pitches. It took its name from the Brazilian dance after the 1950 World Cup and became an indoor football staple with a gum rubber sole. This guide starts with the OG and then moves through the other adidas Samba versions.

Eight Samba sneakers numbered one to eight

Samba OG in calf hair and suede

More OG colourways and materials, from classic black and white to calf hair and leopard. Pick one that suits your wardrobe and wear it often.

The Samba LT

The Samba LT keeps the Samba outline with a slightly different build. It is worth trying if you like the shape but want a new take on it.

More LT, plus the Lux, JP and Jane

The Samba Lux, JP and Jane are the cousins in the family, alongside a few more LT pairs. They keep the DNA and change the details.

Choosing your Samba

If you only buy one, make it the Samba OG in a colour you will wear every week. The gum sole is the detail that ties every version together.