adidas’ Sambas (dubbed “the hottest shoe on the market” by the label’s CEO last year) have had a sustained resurgence for almost two years as a result of a steadily increasing profile (helped tremendously by collabs). Sure, the silhouette has been an icon for seven decades now, but it dominated the summer of ‘22 and doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere. Despite the hype, the shoe’s history has secured them a spot in the classic sneaker hall of fame, but that doesn’t stop adidas from experimenting. To ring in the new year, adidas is hitting the Samba OG with a nylon upper in two colorways, one highlighting a green “Focus Olive” color and the other a “Preloved Ink” shade of blue.

Usually seen in the iconic leather and suede combo, this duo of Samba OGs opts for a nylon upper instead, and comes with reflective detailing for an eye-catching look. As for the colorways, the choice is between an earth-toned green accented with white, or an inky blue with a grey sock liner. The unmistakable gum rubber outsole is back, and much of the silhouette’s original style remains intact. 

This redesign isn’t all about style, however, as both of the colorways are made with a minimum of 20% recycled material, through a process that utilizes parts and materials that have already been made. On top of the sustainability, you also get this unique bunched-up look from the nylon, especially near the three stripes (which offer some luster this time around).

The nylon adidas Samba OG in “Focus Olive / Wonder White / Gum” (featured here) will be available tomorrow, January 3rd, for $120, and the “Preloved Ink / Night Indigo / Grey Six” colorway follows shortly after on January 15th, also going for $120 (and dropping at midnight PST).