With their rich history and deep roots in the lifestyle and athletic industries, adidas has played a leading role in defining style across decades. The adidas Originals Samba and Gazelle are proof of their enduring appeal, and it comes as no surprise that they’re a favourite for both kids and parents.
THE DESIGN
The journey of Samba sneakers began in 1950 when a German football team donned a revolutionary shoe designed for icy conditions. Building on this success, adidas continued to improve the Samba shoe over the years. In 1972, the iconic Samba silhouette as we know it today was launched.
Over a decade later than the arrival of Samba, when the Gazelle sneakers launched, they came in two versions: a red variant for indoor sports like handball, and a blue version marketed as a training shoe. They underwent many evolutions, including the introduction of the ‘hexagon’ outsole in 1971, an innovative feature that enhanced the shoe's traction.
While it would take many years after their debuts to see a range of Samba or Gazelle kids’ sneakers, modern iterations offer kid-friendly features while retaining the retro design cues of the full-sized versions.
THE HISTORY
For the football-mad legions of young Brits in the 1970s and 1980s, adidas shoes were a rite of passage. These avid fans started a cultural phenomenon with their unique way of dressing, which was later called ‘Terrace Wear’. The adidas Samba and Gazelle were a key part of the trend, and to this day are often referred to as Terrace sneakers.
Football fans were not the only ones embracing a more casual style during this time. Throughout the 70s, 80s and 90s, musicians like Bob Marley, Freddie Mercury, Michael Jackson and Britpop groups like Oasis were well-known for donning Samba or Gazelle sneakers.
THE FUTURE
Fast forward to the future. The launch of adidas Originals in 2001 paved the way for an old school comeback, and the popularity of Samba and Gazelle has remained steady ever since.
While they continue to be modern essentials for adults of every generation, the introduction of a wide range of kids’ sizes for both the Samba and Gazelle has meant that future sneakerheads can be outfitted in the coolest kicks right from the very beginning.
From a ‘baby’s first adidas tracksuit’ look with matching sneakers, to the perfect addition to their ready-for-anything childcare or kindy outfits or the discerning taste of a young fashionista, their timeless, retro appeal is something that young and old can agree on.
Convinced? Shop Samba and Gazelle sneakers online or talk to our experienced team members in-store and find them the perfect pair today.