Sambas have taken over. Alongside the Spezial, adidas it-sneakers can be found on the feet of fashionable fellas far and wide; you can’t go more than two blocks before bumping into somebody wearing a pair.

Slim, versatile, and retro in a charming way, the low-cut style can be dressed up or down, looking just as good with dad jeans and an oversized shirt as they do with casual tailoring and a crew neck tee.

Should you be fed up with following the crowd, it’s good to know that there are plenty of shoes like Sambas that are equally as awesome.

Keep reading as I round up the alternative styles that every guy should consider.

Key Takeaways

Sambas have been the sneaker of choice for several seasons, and although their popularity isn’t showing any signs of petering just yet, now is as good a time as any to start thinking about a change.

For this guide I’ve pored over ratings, reviews, and footwear forums to find a selection of shoes that look like Sambas. From Nike’s Killshot 2 to Aurelien’s AUR1, here you’ll uncover a range of options suitable for every style, budget, and occasion.

Why they’re great: Samba fever is real, but the tide will turn eventually—it always does. To get you ahead of the pack, Nike’s Killshot 2 sneakers are a worthy investment that is available at an impressive price point.

With a similar silhouette and the same sporty, retro feel, they’re a stylish substitute that’ll soon become your standout starter. I love the combination of suede and leather for the uppers, and the vintage-style rubber gum soles are a winner.

You can wear these shoes that look like Sambas with everything from jeans and sweaters to cargo shorts and Henley tees.

Who are these for? Inspired by old-school tennis shoes, these low-profile sneakers already have a lot of cultural cachet; though if you make your move soon, you’ll be known as the guy setting the trends, not following them.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: I noticed that some reviewers with particularly wide feet complained that they run a little narrow.

Material: 100% Leather/Suede | Sole Material: 100% Rubber | Sizes Available: 6–15 | Colors Available: 10+

Why they’re great: I’ve worn my fair share of kicks, but few have impressed me as much as Reebok’s Club C 85. An all-time classic, they’re the ultimate beaters and a sneaker staple that’s perfect for guys looking for shoes like adidas Sambas.

They’re made from leather with rubber soles and subtle detailing, and the simple low-top design will take you from festivals and backyard parties to office days and after-work drinks. They’re insanely inexpensive and super versatile.

Who are these for? If you’re looking for value for money, these are pretty much as good as it gets. Not only cheap, they’re also tough as hell and can be worn with anything. Trust me, you’ll be wearing these for years.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: It’s hard to grumble, but they could probably do with a little more support for those who need it—especially if you’re planning on doing a lot of walking.

Material: 100% Leather | Sole Material: 100% Rubber | Sizes Available: 5–15 | Colors Available: 10+

Why they’re great: If your fidelity to adidas is unwavering, then Gazelles are a great alternative to Sambas. Sharing plenty of similarities, they’re cut below the ankle, feature a slim rubber sole, and come with the kind of clout that even sneakerheads can’t argue with.

Who are these for? Whether you’re a fan of ‘90s style or want a cool sneaker you can wear every day, Gazelles are a no-brainer. I’ve even worn mine to the gym—after all, they were originally designed for training.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: It seems that not everyone is a fan of the tongue, though I’ve never had any problems.

Material: 100% Suede | Sole Material: 100% Rubber | Sizes Available: 4.5–14 | Colors Available: 10+

Why they’re great: Almost a casual dress shoe, these smart sneakers are your fast-track ticket to everyday luxury. Cut low and covered in soft suede, they’ll add elegance to your fits whether you’re wearing joggers or high-waisted pants.

Not just fancy on the outside, the insoles are lined with leather and finished with extra padding for unbeatable comfort.

Who are these for? If you’re after shoes like adidas Sambas but a little smarter, then look no further. Aurelien’s low sneakers will be your go-to for casual weddings, evenings out, and everything in between.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: Suede is harder to clean than leather. Be careful of puddles and step away from the sauce.

Material: 100% Suede | Sole Material: 100% Rubber | Sizes Available: 7–12 | Colors Available: 7

Why they’re great: Comfy, classic, and sort of like Sambas, Cariuma’s OCA Low sneakers are the brand’s bestseller. Complete with a natural gum rubber outsole, they’re handcrafted using canvas with a squishy interior that’s kind to your feet (you’ll really appreciate it when standing all day).

Who are these for? These shoes like Sambas are a sustainable choice and an excellent everyday sneaker. The breathable uppers are great for summer traveling, and they’re tough enough to handle beaches, muddy fields, and cobbled streets.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: Not as versatile as Sambas, they’re best suited to casual clobber—though you can still wear them with jeans and chinos.

Material: 100% Canvas | Sole Material: 100% Rubber | Sizes Available: 4–12 | Colors Available: 10+

Why they’re great: Like Sambas, these Velasca sneakers are inspired by old-school sport shoes. They have the same suede overlays, simple branding, and gum rubber soles. They do feel a touch smarter, making them a versatile option that can be worn with both casual wear and semi-formal attire.

Who are these for? A fine addition to any sneaker collection, there’s something charmingly retro about these. They’re the type of classic design that’ll forever be in favor, making them an excellent investment.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: They’re more expensive than Sambas, though well worth the money.

Material: 100% Leather/Suede | Sole Material: 100% Rubber | Sizes Available: 5–13 | Colors Available: 2

Buying Considerations for Shoes Like Sambas

Design

When looking for shoes that look like Sambas, it’s important to consider the design features that make them so popular. Known for their low-profile silhouette, they offer a sleek and streamlined appearance that can be easily dressed up or down. Prioritize sneakers with minimalist aesthetics, subtle branding, and classic elements like a gum sole that give Sambas their retro appeal.

Versatility

Much of the Sambas’ charm lies in the versatility. Look for sneakers that are well-suited for various occasions and settings, focusing on styles that come in neutral color palettes and have a timeless design, allowing them to effortlessly transition from casual to more polished looks. Shoes like Sambas can be worn with everything from jeans and polos to chinos and shirts, making them a valuable addition to any wardrobe.

Comfort

Comfort is key, especially if you want to replicate the feel of slipping on some Sambas. Materials matter (focus on leather or suede), as do features such as cushioned insoles and supportive arches.

How We Chose

To find shoes like Sambas, I analyzed every pair in my closet, focusing on what makes the sporty sneaker a hit—from its shape and style to the insoles and laces. I also spoke to friends, family, and footwear fanatics to gain a greater understanding of why everybody’s wearing them.

Once I knew what to look for, I searched high and low for the best alternatives before creating a shortlist of 30 possibilities. Using the criteria below, I then settled on six standout styles:

Resemblance: Resemblance to the original design was a primary criterion. I focused on identifying pairs with a similar low-profile silhouette and classic, minimalist design that characterizes the sneaker in question. Key features such as a simple upper with subtle branding, a gum sole, and an overall clean aesthetic were prioritized to ensure that the alternatives captured the iconic look of the Sambas.

Price: As well as finding designs that looked similar to Sambas, I wanted to ensure that they offered great value for money. To do so, I sought styles that provided similar quality at competitive price points.

I evaluated each pair based on its materials, construction, and overall durability to ensure that the cost was justified. The goal was to find shoes like Sambas that offered the same balance of style, comfort, and quality without breaking the bank.

Customer Feedback: Customer feedback was crucial in identifying sneakers that matched the quality and satisfaction associated with adidas Sambas. I reviewed online reviews and ratings to gather insights into the performance, comfort, and durability of each pair. Kicks that consistently received positive comments were given higher consideration.

Why Trust Us?

Billy Webb is a menswear expert with more than 10 years of experience in the fashion industry. He has written for some of the industry’s biggest publications, sharing his insights and expertise on style, trends, and footwear.

A self-confessed sneaker addict with more than 100 pairs in his collection, including four pairs of Sambas, he has a deep understanding of what makes a great sneaker and how to find shoes like Sambas.

His extensive personal collection and passion for killer kicks have given him a unique perspective on sourcing shoes that combine style, comfort, and quality. Whether he’s searching for footwear for overweight men or slippers with support, Billy’s expertise makes him a trusted source for sneaker enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike.

Final Verdict 

A perfect blend of retro style, comfort, and versatility, Nike’s Killshot 2 sneakers are my favorite shoes like Sambas. Sharing classic design elements and the same universal appeal, they make an awesome addition to any guy’s footwear rotation.