There's no denying the popularity of the Adidas Samba. While fashion's current favourite shoe has been around for decades (since 1949, to be exact), it wasn't until the last few years that the sleek silhouette really hit its stride. So much so that, in 2023, for its annual 'Year In Fashion' report, Lyst crunched the numbers and crowned the the Adidas  Samba the shoe of the year. From the state of the street and given the amount of collaborations in recent years – Wales Bonner, Sporty & Rich, Humanrace, and more – we're hardly surprised.

Blame it on blokecore, on Bella Hadid, A$AP Rocky, Pinterest girlies – even the FIFA Women's World Cup. Whatever you chalk the rise of the adidas Samba up to, in Lyst's 2023 report it shared insights that the style was searched from every 1.7 minutes on the site. There's no sign of the adidas Samba's popularity dying down, either. According to Lyst, searches for the sneaker have only increased, with the retailer reporting an increase in interest by 43%. Does this trend have enough gas to carry through to 2025? It very well might.

But despite their abundance, getting your hands on a pair of adidas Sambas is not the easiest of purchases. If they're not sold out, you're signing up for competitive draws or setting alarms for a specific launch time. Too old to play this game? We're bringing you 10 alternatives to adidas Sambas to shop instead. If you're suffering from Samba fatigue, this is another way to shop the football-inspired shape without snapping up the most obvious style.

1. Puma Speedcat 

2. Onitsuka Tiger

3. Adidas Handball Spezial

4. Maison Margiela Replica Leather and Suede Sneakers

5. Vans Classic Slip on Sneakers

6. Salomon Black XT-6 Expanse Leather Sneakers

7. Loewe Flow Runner Nylon and Suede Trainers

8. Bottega Veneta Orbit Sneaker

9. ASICS Beige GT-2160 Sneakers

10. Miu Miu Plume Suede Sneakers