Sambas Aren’t Over, But Celebs and Fashion People Are Just as Into This New Trainer Style

It’s been quite a time for Adidas over the past few seasons. With 75 years of history to its name, the brand has revitalised the trainers category over the past year with the much-hyped Samba, eye-catching collaborations with brands such as Wales Bonner and the continued success of the Gazelle. As a brand that knows all about creating a brilliant trainer, Adidas is once again offering up a trending heritage style that fashion people simply can’t get enough of. Now is the time of the SL 72.

Bella Hadid wears the Adidas SL 72 Trainers

Bella Hadid wearing the Adidas SL 72 Trainers.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

The commonality between these beloved styles is their sporting influence. The Samba first emerged in football games whilst the Gazelle was destined for indoor training and the lightweight SL 72 was originally launched in the summer of 1972, coinciding with the Olympic Games, as a running shoe. As often happens in fashion, the style has now been adapted from its original sporty purpose and integrated into everyday wardrobes to add a laid-back feel and relaxed edge to casual outfits. From stylish women across Europe to celebrities including the ever-chic Bella Hadid and Emily Ratajkowski, we've spotted the SL 72 styled with silk trousers, loungewear, tailoring, jeans, skirts and more. Truly, it's a shoe that does it all.

Emily Ratajkowski in the Adidas SL 72 trainers

Emily Ratajkowsk wearing the Adidas SL 72 trainers.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Part of the appeal comes from their streamlined silhouette—a far cry from the chunky-sole trainers that took hold a few years ago. As we've witnessed quiet, understated design rise to the top, these pared-back trainers have become even more inviting. They're versatile tool. Whether you copy Ratajkowski's look and create a sportier aesthetic, or try Hadid's interpretation and give them a retro spin, they offer so many styling options. What’s more, colourful trainers are particularly prominent for 2024; something that has been at the heart of Adidas’ designs since the brand's origin, and the SL 72 is offered in a range of bold, neutral and contrasting hues to revitalise any shoe collection.

Emili wears the Adidas SL72

(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

As with all in-demand Adidas trainers, these are proving quite tricky to get hold of, but I've found the chicest selection of in-stock pairs, so act fast.

SHOP ADIDAS SL 72 TRAINERS:

SHOP MORE ADIDAS TRAINERS:

This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Florrie Alexander
Acting Affiliates Editor

Florrie embarked on her fashion journey while studying French and History at university. Whilst studying in Aix-en-Provence, she began to write her dissertation on the history of fashion and the influence of Haute Couture, and landed her first role at Harper’s Bazaar. Following this, she interned for various publications including Elle, Grazia and Marie Claire before joining the fashion team at Conde Nast Traveller. There, she contributed to international photoshoots, styled pages and covers, and produced engaging digital content.

During a freelance period, Florrie honed her skills in editorial work in various digital and print publications including Vogue Italy and Departures magazine, as well as styling e-commerce photoshoots and personal shopping. Florrie actively pursues an in-depth understanding of fashion and jewellery, and after styling a jewellery cover shoot at Conde Nast Traveller chose to complete the De Beers Diamond Foundation course. Florrie first joined Who What Wear UK as a freelancer before becoming the Commerce Writer, blending both editorial and commercial content. Now, as the Acting Affiliates Editor, she monitors current trends, new-in styles, wardrobe heroes and how best to style them. In her downtime, Florrie can be found in her hometown of London, usually with a coffee in hand.