Adidas’ New, Affordable Sneaker Isn’t a Legacy … and That’s Exactly Why It Works

The Breaknet may not have the fame of the Samba or Handball Spezial, but it delivers the same Three Stripes style at a far more wallet-friendly price.

Close-up of the heel and side of a gray Adidas sneaker with orange accents and a gum sole.

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By Hayley Helms

Published March 18, 2026

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Updated March 18, 2026

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Everyone loves the Samba, from global celebrities like Harry Styles to the barista at your favorite coffee shop.

Adidas’ most ubiquitous style is hard to ignore, but it’s not the only stunner in the Three Stripes roster. The Handball Spezial, a cult favorite, offers a slightly more under-the-radar take, with retro styling and a roomier fit.

Yellow suede Adidas sneaker with white stripes and gum sole, side view. — At first glance, you might think this is a Samba … but the Breaknet Sleek has a style all its own.

Yet there’s another option, one that’s just as versatile and far more affordable, hiding in plain sight within the brand’s own catalog.

The Breaknet isn’t a legacy silhouette, but its clean lines, no-nonsense design and wallet-friendly price make it a serious contender.

Breakaway style

Introduced just a couple of years ago in 2024, the Breaknet Sleek is a variant of the original Breaknet, which made its debut in late 2020.

Gray suede Adidas sneaker with bright orange stripes and laces, viewed from above. — The Breaknet Sleek features Adidas’ proprietary Cloudfoam cushioning underfoot.

Intended to be a casual everyday sneaker that looks as good as its sister styles, the Breaknet Sleek achieves its refined silhouette thanks to its sleek, smooth leather and synthetic upper.

Pair of yellow Adidas sneakers with white stripes and gum soles shown from side views. — The Yellow / Off White / Gum variant is perfect for spring and summer.

With 2026 comes fresh seasonal color options, including a bold new Yellow/Off White/Gum take, as well as a fun Halo Blue/Lucid Orange/Gum treatment.

Both variants are built with a textile lining, the timeless upper and a uniquely-patterned outsole.

Close-up of a yellow suede sneaker with yellow laces, white stripes, and a gum rubber sole. — Rather than sport the iconic T-toe of the Samba, the Breakout utilizes a perforated vamp for extra breathability.

Functional details, like the perforated vamp, add breathability to the shoe, and classic touches, like the 3-Stripes on the sides, firmly cement its iconic style status.

Close-up of a brown rubber shoe sole with a diamond-shaped tread pattern. — The uniquely patterned outsole has just enough grip for everyday wear.

The Breaknet Sleek is priced at just $65, while the Samba costs $100 and the Handball Spezial is $110.

By opting for this low-key alternative, you can achieve similar style for far less out the door.

Availability and pricing

The Breaknet Sleek is available on the Adidas website now, retailing for $65. If you seek an even better deal, there are earlier versions on sale that dip all the way down to $39.

Adidas Breaknet Sleek

$65 at Adidas

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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