Adidas’s Samba Alternative Looks Even Better Than the Original

The subtle stunner is an underrated, even cooler style alternative to Adidas’s most famous low-profile shoe.

Close-up of brown suede Adidas Spezial sneaker with white leather heel tab and gold lettering on a green background.

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Published December 10, 2025

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Originally released in 1979 as the go-to shoe for elite handball players, the Adidas Handball Spezial has evolved over the years from an athletic sneaker to a low-profile stunner that rivals the omnipresent Samba for good looks.

Thanks to a slew of new colorways and premium upper materials, that rivalry is more intense than ever.

Pair of black and dark brown Adidas Spezial leather sneakers with gum soles on a beige background. — The original Handball Spezial was built to be more supportive than the Samba — and the latest updates bring a healthy dose of style to the table.

While the Samba features a flatter sole and slimmer, narrower build designed for playing soccer on turf, Handball Spezials are wider, more cushioned and have better arch support, a thicker sole and a softer upper — so not only do they stand out in a sea of Sambas, they’re actually more comfortable.

If you’re over Sambas but still want the laid-back, eternally cool style of a low-profile sneaker, the new iterations of the Adidas Handball Spezial are an excellent choice. Here are a few of our favorites.

Red Adidas Spezial sneaker with white stripes and gum sole angled to the right.

Adidas Handball Spezial “Better Scarlet / Cloud White / Gum”

This bold take on the Handball Spezial is great for anyone who considers red a neutral. Featuring a striking rose graphic on the woven textile upper, paired with suede detailing on the T-toe, eyestay and heelcap, this shoe brings serious style to the table.

$120 at Adidas

Gray suede Adidas Spezial sneaker with beige stripes and gum sole.

Adidas Handball Spezial “Clay / Beige / Gum”

The understated style of the Handball Spezial is complemented by this tonal, mellow clay hue that is totally on trend. A new cow suede upper is added for a supple feel, while the soft gum rubber outsole keeps these shoes true to their ’70s origins.

$120 at Adidas

Black Adidas Handball sneaker with woven leather upper, beige stripes, and gum sole.

Adidas Handball Spezial “Core Black / Trace Khaki / Gum”

While the black and khaki color combo on this new Handball Spezial grounds the shoe, the intriguing woven leather upper brings a luxe vibe to the table. Iconic three stripe branding and the original Spezial branding on the quarter and tongue pay homage to the sneaker’s history, while the unique construction keeps it rooted in the present.

$130 at Adidas

Brown suede Adidas sneaker with white stripes and gum sole angled to the right.

Adidas Handball Spezial “Earth Strata / Wonder White / Gum”

Earth-toned colors are popular right now, and the nature-inspired hues go well with the understated style of the Handball Spezial. This dusty “Earth Strata” version works well with the new premium cow suede upper, and the vintage-inspired sole feels so timeless, this new take could have easily been released in 1979.

$120 at Adidas

Black Adidas Spezial sneaker with brown stripes and gum sole angled to the right.

Adidas Handball Spezial “Core Black / Dark Brown / Gum”

The low-profile build of this classic Adidas style is revamped via a tumbled leather upper with nubuck overlays. The duo adds a touch of refinement to an everyday style, and the textured laces add a little bit of tactile fun. The dark colorway keeps things grounded, as does the sneaker’s vintage styling.

$120 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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