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The Adidas Samba has had a moment – and it’s ongoing. Just last week, the brand made a permanent fixture of the Millennium, a throwback that was first shuttered in 2009. They're still on the feet of every other famous and non-famous guy (Austin Butler, Robert Pattinson, 50 per cent of your social circle). But with the fandom spanning from the ‘I think I like this little life’ TikTok girlies to the Carharrt die-hards, are people gonna be over it soon? Maybe.
But word in the sneakerverse is that the Samba is soon to make way for the next big thing. Will it be a resurgence of an archival silhouette, or something completely fresh? Drop? Cop? Stop? All in good time, but not before we get the predictions of some of the most esteemed sneakerheads this side of Tokyo.
"Most people who buy running shoes don't actually use them to run. And while this has been an ongoing trend over the past decade or so, it's going to play an even bigger role this year. Take Hoka and On for example.
“While these are both relatively new sportswear companies (founded in 2009 and 2010, respectively), they both managed to secure collabs with some of the most influential names in fashion over the last few months. And, with more Maison Margiela x Salomon XT-6s coming in hot, and a Bode x Nike Astro Grabber on the way, this running-meets-runway aesthetic isn't going anywhere, anytime soon.”
"We’ve seen a shift away from the laser focus on high profile collaborations towards classic in-line silhouettes across the board. Last summer’s resurgence of Adidas’ Samba is testament to that shift. The days of people dressing from the ground up and building their outfits around their sneakers has moved on to people looking for a versatile rotation that fits into their wardrobes day-to-day.
“In terms of specific styles, I think New Balance’s 1906 will continue to make waves and we’ll hopefully see some great Asics this summer. Homegrown independent brands like Clints Inc and Cole Buxton’s recent release of the Wilson sneaker will hopefully continue to get a lot of love and if you’re looking for something for those special occasions it’s got to be a Duke and Dexter loaf.”
"It’s hard to call out one shoe in particular, but it feels like the industry is seeing the strength in the archives. They're plucking silhouettes that made brands much-loved in the past, and refixing them with subtle touches for today. I’d expect to see more sports-based and terrace-based staples, but elevated in glossy new ways.
“We’re not just seeing this trend in the streets, we’re also seeing it in sport as athletes and fashion become ever more intertwined. Look no further than the relaunch of Adidas’ much-loved Predator football boot this year to see the impact that fan favourites can have. Give the people what they want!”
"People are learning to appreciate silhouette and how a shoe actually fits their lifestyle. Practicality plays a huge factor for me as I want a shoe I can wear five days a week.
“The rise of the Samba was well justified as such an easy shoe, so it makes total sense that it can hold its weight today. I see this style of shoe staying relevant as brands, collaborators and individuals constantly look to the past for what’s next. I love seeing brands let smaller creatives collaborate as there’s far more storytelling involved, which is what was missing for a long time. Going forward, people seem to be slimming down collections in effort to own less and enjoy what they have. Anything well built with good materials and daily wearability is an easy choice for the consumer.”
“I believe 2024 will be another year where retro running silhouettes are going to continue to go strong. With the announcement of a retro of the Nike Spiridon OG coming later this year, I have a feeling that we will see this model regain its popularity in the streets, mainly with the OG colourways.”
So we wait with bated breath for a sign from the sneaker overlords, but it looks as though we're entering a new era where the sneaker fits the outfit rather than the vice versa of days gone by. Until then, your Sambas still work for securing that oat milk flat white at Gail’s. No one’s judging.
