Nike’s Versatile Answer to the Samba Is Suddenly Even More Affordable

With its gridiron DNA and contemporary flair, the Field General is a steal at this new sale price.

Nike

Published 2 hours ago

·

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more

The Nike Field General has been quietly building a following over the last year and for good reason. Combining 1980s gridiron roots with street-ready style, this retro-inspired sneaker delivers athletic heritage and everyday comfort in one versatile package.

Low-top sneakers with a beige suede and mesh upper, featuring a dark blue Nike swoosh and heel tab. They have white laces and a gum rubber sole. — The Nike Field General sneaker was officially revived in February 2024 ahead of the Super Bowl LVIII, marking its return after nearly 40 years since the original 1982 release.

What puts it over the top? For a limited time, the Field General is on sale at Nike—dropping from its typical ~$100 sticker to just $60 in some cases. If you’ve been looking for a worthy alternative to the omnipresent Samba, now’s the best time to grab a pair for less.

Why It’s Unique

Green and yellow Nike sneakers with brown soles, worn with yellow socks and black pants, positioned against a textured stone wall on a cobblestone street. — It’s hard to believe the sneaker was originally developed as a quarterback’s shoe.

Dubbed “Nike’s answer to the Adidas Samba” by sneakerheads and style insiders , the reissued Field General blends authentic vintage cues with modern street sensibility.

Unlike many throwback sneakers, which can sometimes overplay nostalgia, this Nike strikes a smart balance: authentic retro spirit without looking outdated.

It’s amazing how different the shoe can look in various color ways.

Nike

Originally built for football quarterbacks in the early ‘80s, its design is all about utility: a premium blend of leather, suede, and ballistic nylon forms the upper.

The Field General’s rugged black waffle outsole was intended to offer multidirectional grip for football.

Nike

Another key win: comfort. The nubby outsole originally designed for football turf translates seamlessly to streetwear, giving the Field General casual bounce and reliable traction.

Field General Colors on Sale

White Nike sneakers with red swoosh logos and gum soles worn with white socks and beige pants, shown from a low angle on stone steps outdoors with buildings in the background.

For now, multiple colorways of the Nike Field General are marked down at Nike.com—most notably, Midnight Navy, Picante Red, Dusty Cactus and more.

Sizing is impressively inclusive, with options spanning men’s sizes 3.5 to 15 (subject to stock on each color). Don’t wait too long—the deal is limited and some popular sizes and shades may move quickly.