adidas Wales Bonner Samba

In late 2023, adidas reunited with innovative fashion designer Grace Wales Bonner and her self-titled fashion label to continue their ongoing examination of retro athletic styles. The 2023 fall/winter collection delved into a period of history stretching from the 1970s through to the 1990s to develop a range of stylish colourways that emulate the vintage look of that era. Once again, the iconic Samba silhouette was lifted from adidas’ extensive back catalogue, becoming the canvas for Wales Bonner to explore this sporting heritage. In turn, she delivered the model to a modern audience with the kind of sophisticated touches and elegant details the brand has become so renowned for.

This eccentric adidas Wales Bonner Samba is wrapped in plush faux pony hair with a striking leopard-print design. Its variegated palette features tones ranging from sandy beige to deep mahogany for a look that is both captivating and luxurious. Cream White leather shapes the 3-Stripes logos, while decorative stitching adds to the elegance these light accents bring to the design. Elements like the gum rubber sole unit and the foldover banded tongue reference the Samba’s sporting heritage while also giving the sneaker a distinctive aesthetic. A cooling flash of azure blue coats the silky inner lining, which provides soft comfort around the foot. Inside the shoe, a set of dual branding adorns the insole in honour of both collaborating partners. The same text has been woven into the dark brown tongue patch in fine off-white embroidery for a classy finish to this memorable Samba colourway.