Samba dates back to 1949, when Adidas launched it as a football shoe built for training on hard, icy pitches. It was designed to provide reliable traction on the field and not for casual strolls on the street. But it has since undergone several iterations or upgrades over the three decades since its conception. Now, Adidas reflects on Samba’s roots with the upcoming Samba Climbing Shoe.
Adidas calls the update a blend of heritage and innovation, offering iconic style with climbing performance designed to become a staple in both lifestyle and active pursuits. The shoe retains the sneaker-like silhouette and the supple leather construction from its predecessor. The leather upper provides durability and comfort, and adapts to your movements on and off the wall.
It also retains the classic black-and-white colorway symbolic of the brand, and the lace closure (instead of Velcro) offers a secure, adjustable fit. The Samba Climbing Shoe even features gold-foil “Samba” lettering on the side, as seen on the Samba OG. Overall, the silhouette delivers a sophisticated look, while staying true to its name.
This design could be Samba’s most technical to date. Adidas swapped out the signature gum sole underfoot for Five Ten Stealth rubber. The rubber extends up over the toe box, replacing the suede overlay panel. The rubber outsole adds reliable grip, helping steps feel steady and controlled.
The question, though, is whether or not athletes would actually reach for the Samba Climbing Shoe to scale rocky paths. The leather upper is a scratch magnet, and the laces spell trouble when they come undone mid-climb.
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Images courtesy of Adidas
