The World Cup has put soccer in the spotlight this summer. Whether you're rooting for the underdogs or a Champions league legend, it seems everyone can agree on wearing sporty, low-profile sneakers.
Few shoes have defined the pro-footballer look quite like the Adidas Sambas. Originally introduced in 1949 as a training shoe for soccer players, the slim sneaker is now everywhere thanks to its timeless silhouette and easy-to-style colorways.
During peak Sambas hype I had considered buying a pair, but didn't want to dress like a carbon copy of everyone else. So, I decided to explore similar sporty-chic styles. Below are the best Sambas alternatives I've found, including a handful worn by our style editors.
For more of the top trendy sneakers we've tested, see our guide to the best retro sneakers.
Nike Moon Shoe OG
When you think of retro Nikes, the Cortezes are usually what first come to mind. But this '70s-borne pair feel a bit more Samba-adjacent, with an intriguing, low-to-the ground rubber sole that reminds me a bit of my old track spikes. Ever since the Nike Moon Shoe got the designer treatment with a special Jacquemus edition, it's made a full comeback.
Their perforated uppers allowed my feet to breathe, even as I walked on hot concrete in a heat wave. The slim, contoured shape makes them super lightweight, and they're quite foldable and easy to pack in case of a summer weekend getaway.
Gola Viper Leather Sneakers
White sneakers are a staple in my everyday wardrobe, whether I'm wearing a dress or athleisure, so I was excited to try some Gola sneakers. The Vipers are a high-quality leather alternatives to Sambas, which offer a similar suede T-toe and a translucent gum sole. After removing them from the box, I was immediately impressed with their sturdy yet flexible feel. They felt comfortable on the first wear.
Although they look equally good with leggings or a sundress, my favorite styling choice for these shoes is to have them peeking out from underneath a pair of wide-leg slacks. They add a sporty touch, yet still manage to look polished. These fit true to size. They look good with various sock lengths, but I found them most comfortable with calf-length socks since the tongue of the shoe rubbed against my ankle a bit when I wore them with short socks.
Bared Footwear Amakihi
Bared Footwear is one of our favorite shoe brands here on the Reviews team. I've tried their strappy heels, lug-soled loafers, and knee-high boots, and somehow each pair is more comfortable than the last. They're more expensive, but that's because this brand employs podiatrists to design its signature biomechanical footbeds.
Unlike thin, flat-soled Sambas, the Amakihi sneakers have substantial arch support, a padded forefoot area to ease metatarsal pain, cushioned heel cups to absorb shock, and a "cuboid notch" — AKA, a custom orthotic modification that helps with stability.
On top of all this, you get a"Fit Kit" (so don't throw it out with the packaging!), which includes two sets of padded footbeds in case they feel too narrow or too wide. If you're going to walk all day but don't want your sneakers to read as "walking shoes," you'll be glad you splurged on this Bared pair. Just remember this brand is based in Australia, so shipping may take longer than usual.
Larroudé Stella Sneaker
The Stellas are Larroudé's very first pair of sneakers, and a big departure from the brand's somewhat fanciful design language. The Stellas have a luxury-grade aesthetic, yet are still much more affordable than those from Chloé or Loewe. As a bonus, each pair comes with two sets of laces for a more customizable look.
Alo Sunset Sneaker
I'll admit, I was first clued into Alo's new Sunset Sneakers because I saw that Kendall Jenner is attached to their debut and felt curious as to why the brand keeps putting out more colorways (they're now up to seven). Even more curious is the yoga apparel brand's new foray into footwear and how it'll compare to Lululemon's attempts.
These have an edge over Sambas because their raised foam insoles offer better cushioning than a completely flat sneaker. They run small and have a narrow toe box, so the brand recommends ordering a half size up.
New Balance RC42
New Balance may have perfected the chunky dad sneaker, but the RC42 showcases the versatility of the brand's design language. This plimsoll mixes suede and leather for a multidimensional look.
Reviewers note that these tend to run about a half size small, so round up if you plan to wear these with athletic socks. If you prefer a no-show sock, their padded heel collars and tabs will make them easier to break in blister-free.
Seavees Clipper Sneaker
Seavees' leather-and-suede design with a memory foam footbed is crafted with recycled materials in the sport mesh lining, cotton insole cover, polyester laces, and rubber outsole. A fun detail: The shoe (named after the Bay Area Clippers soccer team from the 1960s) has a grippy bottom with a colorful terrazzo-like design.
Coolway Kizuna Sneakers
Coolway's Kizuna sneakers are designed in Spain and take clear design notes from the Sambas. However, the suede uppers come in a notable amount of pastel shades, which will complement any light-wash jeans you wear them with. They come in unisex European sizing, so be sure to compare the brand's size guide with your foot measurements.
Adidas SL72
If totally flat sneakers are too taxing on your feet, consider Adidas' SL 72 style. They look similar to the Sambas but with a slightly raised heel, which can help reduce pressure and alleviate pain. The textile and leather shoe with a rubber outsole comes in 16 unique colorways, including a patterned burgundy option inspired by ornate carpets.
Alohas Tb.490 Rife Sneaker
If you prefer a bright statement sneaker, consider Alohas' low-top leather style. It's available in dozens of vibrant hues like orange, pink, and lime, alongside neutrals in cream and ivory — and of recently, some fresh new colorways. Exposed stitching, perforated details, and contrast accents up the style factor, while the rubber sole keeps them comfy.
Read our full Alohas review.
Puma Palermo Sneakers
These Pumas offer comfort and style, and they're roomy enough for people with wider feet. The retro-inspired sneakers have a low profile, leather upper, and a rubber sole. Another point to consider: Puma has received the Fair Labor Association accreditation for upholding fair labor standards throughout its supply chains and improving working conditions.
Veja Volley Sneakers
The organic leather that makes up these stylish Veja kicks is super soft and pliable, although they also come in canvas and suede versions. Additional materials include a bio-based E.V.A. from sugar cane, recycled rubber, and recycled polyester. Whether you prefer a lime green leather pair with lilac contrast or a camel-colored suede with black leather details, these are sure to be the focal point of your outfit.
Naturalizer Medina
Naturalizer is one of our favorite sources of comfortable women's dress shoes. Its Medina sneakers stand out because several colorways come in narrow, wide and extra wide sizes, with a contoured footbed and cushioned heel cups. So if you've ever felt too squeezed in or unsupported by Sambas, you now have your solution.
Greats The Charlie
These are probably my most-worn sneakers, and this is coming from someone with a closet that's practically brimming with them. I love that the Charlies carry the aesthetic impact of a pair of Sambas or Gazelles, but also have a quiet luxury thing about them. While folks with a high arch may want to add a pair of inserts to these, I find them to be pretty comfortable as-is for walking around all day. They do take a solid three to five wears to break in, but once you've gotten the leather to mold to your feet a little, you'll never want to take these off. — Sally Kaplan, executive editor
Sorel Ona Drift
Sorel is probably known best for its chunky silhouettes and rugged winter boots for men and women, so this low-profile gum-sole shoe is a sign the brand has noted where sneaker trends are heading. The Ona Drift sneakers are made with suede uppers and come with Ortholite insoles for an ideal weekend style.
Naghedi Milan Sneaker
I'd never tried neoprene shoes before trying Naghedi's pointed toe flats, but they somehow made its lightweight, scuba-like texture look and feel luxe. They've done the same here with their debut sneaker, a slim, flexible almond-toe designed with a suede trim and natural rubber sole that's perfect for spring.
Beckett Simonon Morgen Trainers
Beckett Simonon shoes are made-to-order, eliminating unsold inventory. The brand also takes pride in creating a favorable work environment for its employees and using the highest quality leather.
The Morgen Trainers feature a full-grain leather outer with water-repellent suede detailing. Their Vachetta leather lining is temperature-regulating, moisture-absorbing, odor-controlling, and breathable to keep feet feeling fresh and comfortable. The rubber sole is strong yet flexible and water-resistant.
Nike Killshot 2
These lightweight leather sneakers with suede accents soften and gain a vintage look with each wear. The rubber gum sole adds traction and a retro look. They're great if you want a subtle pop of color — like a fuchsia Nike logo — without an entirely colorful shoe. Customers report they run a bit narrow, though, so they may not be the best fit for people with wide feet.
Dolce Vita Notice Sneakers
Dolce Vita generally offers a wide variety of colors and patterns in their shoes, and these suede sneakers are no exception. They come in 20 colorways including an icy blue suede with white accents, a leopard-print calf hair version with sparkling silver details, and a sunny yellow. Customers appreciate that these shoes can be dressed up or down, although they run slightly narrow.
Oncept Essex Sneakers
If you're need a pair of Sambas alternatives to feature in your next vacation post, try packing these as your lightweight, wear-anywhere sneakers.
"The Essex sneakers are like a cool, more obscure version of the Nike Cortezes. I keep them by my doorway so I can slip them on anytime I walk to the bodega. They're so comfy and light, and they go with everything," writes senior associate style editor Gabrielle Chase. "The insides are so plush that I can even wear them without socks. I also love their tube laces — it's a little detail that makes them a bit more unique."
They have a similar fit to ballet flats, with a slim footbed and tapered toe box. Even better, they're made with recycled materials featured in their durable rubber outsoles and silky soft Tencel-based lining.
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD
The classic shoe (beloved for its pliable leather and thin, bendable sole that's great for athletes) was recently reinvented with an upgraded design. The new Mexico 66 SD features a refined and more comfortable silhouette while delivering the same sporty-chic style as its predecessor, the Mexico 66. Choose from 14 colorful and muted hues.
Sam Edelman Talia Velcro Sneaker
A velcro closure helps differentiate these sneaks from Sambas and makes putting them on effortless. The gummy Talia sneakers are crafted from leather and synthetic materials with a rounded toe and contrast detailing. Customers report a comfortable fit, a soft terry-cloth fabric interior, and true sizing.
Cole Haan Women's GrandPrø Breakaway Sneakers
A quilted design elevates these leather kicks, available in five colorways including a metallic silver. The Breakaways offer lots of comfort, too, thanks to a cushy, supportive footbed. If you have a wide foot, consider sizing up for a more comfortable fit.
Rothy’s The Lace Up Sneaker
Recognizable by the signature blue stitching on the heel, Rothy's sustainable footwear utilizes a knit material that's crafted from recycled plastic water bottles. Plus, the insoles contain recycled foam, the rubber soles are carbon-free, the adhesives are non-toxic and vegan, and the brand uses biodegradable post-consumer recycled materials for its packaging. When I tested the brand's Lace Up Sneaker, I was impressed by the super comfortable knit fabric with no break-in period. They run a little narrow so I recommend sizing up in the cushy kicks.
RF Room of Fashion Casual Low Top Sneakers
If you're looking for a budget-friendly alternative to Adidas Sambas, these 100% synthetic shoes are less than half the price. The Casual Low Top Sneakers come in nine colors, including metallic gold and a two-tone wine red. Amazon customers say the soles are well-made and the shoes feel comfortable and cushioned.
Everlane The Tread-Bare Sneaker
Producing less CO2 than a single cheeseburger, Everlane's version of a plimsoll is the eco-conscious label's lowest-impact sneaker yet. The recycled cotton canvas shoe has a natural latex rubber outsole and recycled trims, giving it a conveniently lightweight design and a barely-there feel.
It's available in a goes-with-anything off-white and a colorful version with blue and red accents. Try swapping in your own laces or charms to make your plimsolls really pop.
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Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@jkmperu.com.
