In the last few years, the Samba has been cemented as the trainer to own, and finding an in-stock pair was a part-time job in itself. Then, the Spezial began gaining traction for its similar streamlined silhouette as well as the versatility of colourways that tapped into fashion’s movement to colourful accessories. At the same time, we noticed the adoration of the humble Gazelles beginning to grow, as well as the reissued SL 72’s making their way into every fashion person’s collection. So, I think it's safe to say that Adidas has dominated the trainer world even more than ever recently.
In fact, one of my most asked questions as a fashion editor is "which Adidas trainers are most popular right now?" so I thought with spring on the horizon, now was the perfect time to decode this question.
Lois wears Adidas Sambas.
Adidas has managed to set itself apart from all other trainers around by leaning into the pared-back aesthetic that has taken hold of fashion in recent seasons—the streamlined silhouettes of these reissued legacy shoes are perfectly primed to do well. The shapes are versatile, pairing with everything from tailoring to denim, to spring-ready dresses thanks to their understated feel. But we're also seeing bold, standout colours continue to thrive in footwear, with everything from metallics to vibrant shades catching the eye of fashion people.
Instead of creating a brand new shoe to take on the seasonal trends, Adidas has turned back to the classics, with the Adidas team suggesting that some of its OG styles such as the Superstar II and Japan will be making their way back into our wardrobes this year. You can also rest assured that Samba and SL 72 styles that have been key for a few seasons now are sticking around, but if it is newness you're after, the slip-on Taekwondo Mei that has just launched for spring is set to be huge news. I put all five styles to the test, so here's my honest review...
The Best Adidas Trainers, According to a Fashion Editor Who Put Them to the Test:
1. Adidas Japan
Style Notes: First launched in the 1960's during the Tokyo Olympics, the 'Japan' trainers are now stealing the limelight once again. I tried the timeless white pair with black stripes and I was instantly convinced. They feel ever more streamlined than the Samba, with the slim sole and more narrow toe. For this reason, I sized up by half a size to make sure they weren't too tight, and this made them the perfect fit. They're one of those everyday throw-on-and-go styles I know I'll wear on heavy rotation no matter my plans.
Shop the Trend:
These are the ones I tried, and I haven't taken them off since.
The creamy colour with brunt red just works so well.
The love for yellow kicks isn't going anywhere.
Go bold or go home for S/S 25.
2. Adidas Taekwondo
Style Notes: This is a sneaker style that felt completely new to me. I've never worn a pair without laces, but as soon as I put them on, I liked them a lot more than I thought I would. Firstly, the colour. I'm yet to hop onto the red trainer trend, and now I'm unsure why when they can make even the simplest of outfits feel fun. I sized up a full size in these and I would definitely recommend doing this, or at least a half size as you have to pull them on and the tongue is quite rigid to begin with. I predict the cow print pair will be as popular as the cow print Samba's this season.
Shop the Trend:
This is the exact pair I tried, and they're so easy to throw on with jeans or tailored trousers.
The Samba pair sold out within 7 minutes on ASOS, so you'll have to get a mo[o]ve on (sorry) to get these.
Silver shoes in general have been trending for a while now and they're still going strong.
Monochrome will always be a classic trainer choice.
3. Adidas SL 72
Style Notes: Originally launched as a running shoe in 1972 (hence the name), this shoe has been adapted by fashion people as a relaxed finish to everyday outfits. Even celebrities like Bella Hadid are fans of the slightly sporty design and I'm now joining the long list of SL 72 supporters. With bold, retro trainers being a S/S 25 catwalk favourite at the likes of Prada and Miu Miu, I just know the loudest of colour combos will be key this year. I originally didn't think this blue pair would be my vibe but I've loved wearing them with jeans. Super comfy, I sized up half a size just to be on the safe side but I would say they're actually true to size.
Shop the Trend:
Retro contrast colour kicks were all over the runways at Loewe, Miu Miu and Prada and I've fallen for this primary colour pair I tried.
One of the most popular colourways, you've probably already seen this pair on Instagram.
Farfetch has the sell-out leopard pair in all sizes (for a higher price).
I'm so into this pink and green pair—just add ecru jeans.
4. Adidas Samba
Style Notes: If there's one Adidas style that's dominated the fashion space in the last few years, it's the Samba. Loved by every fashion insider, they've proved to show longevity with the continuous launch of new cool colours and prints. It was only last month that the new leopard and cow iterations sold out within minutes of dropping online, proof the demand is still there. And I for one am happy about the situation considering they're one of those styles that work effortlessly with any outfit. Go half a size up—and keep a look out for this burgundy pair coming back in stock on the Adidas website very soon.
Shop the Trend:
You can shop the sell-out burgundy style on Farfetch.
The contrast stitching makes these classics feel fresh.
Spring in sneaker form.
A variation on the classic OG Samba, no doubt these will be everywhere for new season.
5. Adidas Superstar II
Style Notes: The Superstar II was launched in the '90s, having a slightly different toe shape than the OG Superstar from the '70s. The low-top basketball vibe is one that will always be iconic to Adidas, and I can confirm how comfy they are. The platform sole and padded inner makes it feel like you're walking on a cloud. As a chunkier style, I would suggest taking your usual size for this one. Adidas told me both the white and black styles have been increasingly more popular recently, so no doubt they're about to make a comeback for the new season.
Shop the Trend:
This is the pair I tried and they're so so comfy.
This ponyhair platform pair is fun, isn't it?
To go with literally any outfit.
A best-seller for good reason.
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