Adidas is one of the most renowned shoe brands around the globe, and two of its most classic models are the Samba and the Superstar. Both shoes have been in the market for decades and are admired by sneaker fanatics worldwide. But what are the dissimilarities between the two? Which one is better?
The Adidas Samba was initially structured for indoor soccer; on the contrary, the Superstar was more of a vogue shoe, although it was also famous for basketball and bicycling. Both shoes contain a rubber sole, but the Samba comprises a suede upper; on the other side, the Superstar has a leather upper. The Samba is more feathery than the Superstar, but the Superstar has a more versatile design with its trademark rubber shell toe.
Concerning performance, both shoes are snug and provide good arch aid. The insole material is similar for both, comprising EVA providing intense comfort. However, the Superstar utilizes standard rubber in the outsole, which is more stretchable than the rubber used in Samba’s outsole.
Feature Table: Adidas Samba Vs Adidas Superstar
| Feature | Adidas Samba | Adidas Superstar |
| History | Originally designed for indoor soccer, became popular streetwear | Initially a basketball shoe, embraced by hip-hop and streetwear culture |
| Design and Aesthetics | Classic gum sole, suede or leather upper, iconic three stripes | Signature rubber shell toe, leather upper, three stripes |
| Material Comparison | Gum rubber outsole, suede upper, EVA insole | Standard rubber outsole, leather upper, EVA insole |
| Comfort and Fit | Suede upper, gum rubber sole, deep profile design | Leather upper, rubber sole, cushioned collar and tongue |
| Performance and Durability | Gum rubber outsole, deep profile for indoor traction | Rubber outsole, reinforced toe cap, suitable for indoor and outdoor use |
| Popularity and Influence | Cultural icon, favored by breakdancers and celebrities | Global influence, collaborations with designers and artists |
| Price Comparison | Generally more affordable | Slightly higher price range, including limited editions |
| Sizing Comparison | Narrow fit, may require half size up for wider feet | Narrow fit but slightly roomier than Samba, various sizes available |
| Casual Wear | Suitable for casual wear, sleek and retro design | Iconic and retro design, suitable for fashion and streetwear |
| Running/Sports Use | Not suitable for running or sports activities | Not suitable for running, but suitable for casual sports activities |
| Conclusion | Iconic retro design, suitable for casual wear and sports | Signature look, ideal for casual wear and street fashion |
History
Origins of Adidas Samba
The Adidas Samba was first launched in 1950 by Adidas founder Adi Dassler. The original reason for the shoe was to offer a better grip on icy surfaces. The distinctive gum sole was constructed to avert slipping on the ice, an ordinary issue for soccer players. The Samba swiftly became famous in Germany and throughout Europe and was later initiated to the United States in the 1960s.
The Samba was constructed as a soccer shoe but rapidly became famous as a streetwear shoe. The shoe’s versatile design and snug fit made it a favorite among sneaker fanatics. Over the years, the Samba has been launched in various colors and materials, incorporating leather, suede, and canvas.
Evolution of Adidas Superstar
The Adidas Superstar was launched in 1969 as a basketball shoe. The shoe was engineered to provide basketball players with finer ankle support and padding. The Superstar rapidly became popular among basketball athletes and was worn by several NBA stars in the 1970s.
In the 1980s, Superstar became famous as a streetwear shoe. The shoe’s simple pattern and classic three stripes created it a favorite among hip-hop artists and sneaker fanatics. The Superstar has been launched in various colors and elements, including leather, suede, and canvas.
In the latest years, Adidas has associated with some designers and celebrities to make versatile editions of the Superstar. These collaborations have incorporated limited version releases with Pharrell Williams, Rita Ora, and Jeremy Scott. Superstar endures one of the most famous sneakers in the world today and is a true image of streetwear fashion.
Design and Aesthetics
Samba’s Unique Design
The Adidas Samba has an authoritative pattern that separates it from other sneakers. Initially made as a soccer shoe, the Samba offers a deep profile and a gum sole that gives remarkable traction on indoor surfaces. The upper is designed of suede or leather, and the iconic three stripes embellish the sides of the shoe. The Samba’s pattern is simple yet modish, making it an iconic shoe that can be worn with various outfits.
One of the most versatile attributes of the Samba is the contrasting color shades of the stripes and the heel tab. The stripes are generally white; on the other hand, the heel tab is a bright color that contributes a pop of color to the shoe. This pattern element has become a trademark of Samba and is often mimicked by other brands.
Superstar’s Iconic Look
The Adidas Superstar is one of the most classic sneakers of all time. It was first launched in 1969 and rapidly became an admiration of basketball players and hip-hop artists. The Superstar’s pattern is instantly noticeable, with its signature shell toe and three bands on the sides.
The upper of the Superstar is designed of leather, and the shoe is accessible in various colors and designs. The shell toe is constructed of rubber and provides remarkable protection for the toes. The Superstar’s pattern is simple yet iconic, making it an effortless shoe that can be worn with various outfits.
One of the most noteworthy attributes of the Superstar is the distinct color combinations that are accessible. The shoe is often sold in two-tone color shades, having the stripes and heel tabs in a contrasting color. This pattern element has become a trademark of the Superstar and is often launched by other brands.
Overall, both the Samba and Superstar have versatile patterns that have resisted the test of time. The Samba’s plain yet voguish design makes it an iconic shoe that can be worn with various outfits; on the other hand, the Superstar’s iconic look has made it the dearest of sneakerheads for over 50 years.
Material Comparison
Several dissimilarities are worth noting regarding the material comparison between Adidas Samba and Superstar. Both shoes contain versatile features that create them emerge from each other. The following is a breakdown of the materials utilized in each shoe:
Insole
The insole component for both Adidas Samba and Superstar is similar. Both use EVA, which gives extreme ease to the wearers. Furthermore, it upgrades the arch aid for your feet.
Midsole
The midsole of both shoes is designed of rubber, which offers excellent padding and support. However, the Superstar has a more bulkier midsole than the Samba, making it more snug for longer periods of wear.
Outsole
The outsole is where the key dissimilarity lies between these two shoes. The Superstar utilizes standard rubber in the outsole, which is quite stretchable. Conversely, the Samba has a gum rubber outsole, which offers remarkable traction and grip on indoor surfaces.
Upper
The upper of the Adidas Samba is engineered of suede, offering a mushy and comfortable feel. On the other side, the upper of the Superstar is structured of grain leather, which gives durability and a more iconic look. Furthermore, the Superstar’s signature rubber shell toe pattern adds to its versatile style.
In conclusion, Adidas Samba and Superstar have iconic characteristics that create them to emerge from each other. The Samba contains a gum rubber outsole, which offers excellent grip on indoor surfaces; on the contrary, the Superstar contains a thicker midsole and its trademark rubber shell toe pattern.
Comfort and Fit
Regarding selecting between the Adidas Samba and Superstar, comfort and fit are necessary factors to examine. In this part, we will explore Samba’s ease and Superstar’s fit.
Comfort in Samba
The Adidas Samba is a delicate sneaker that gives sufficient comfort to the user. It offers a suede upper and a rubber sole that gives excellent padding. The insole of the Samba utilizes EVA material, intensifying comfort and aids for the feet. The Samba is ideal for indoor activities, incorporating soccer and regular wear.
Moreover, the Samba has a deep profile pattern for finer mobility and stretchability. The sneaker’s tongue is also cushioned to avert irritation and discomfort to the user. The Samba’s suede upper is porous, which helps to maintain the feet cool, fresh, and dry.
Fit of Superstar
The Adidas Superstar has been an iconic sneaker in the industry for decades. It has a versatile design offers a rubber shell toe and a leather upper. The Superstar’s fit is true to size and accessible in both men’s and women’s sizes.
The Superstar’s leather upper features a comfortable fit that adapts to the shape of the user’s feet. The insole of the Superstar also utilizes EVA material, which intensifies comfort and support. The Superstar’s outsole uses graded rubber, which is stretchable and provides remarkable traction.
However, some users may find the Superstar moderately heavy because of the leather upper. Therefore, breaking in the sneaker before wearing it for elongated periods is necessary.
In summary, the Adidas Samba and Superstar offer excellent ease and fit. The Samba is delicate and perfect for indoor activities; on the other side, the Superstar has an iconic pattern and a comfortable fit.
Performance and Durability
Samba’s Performance
The Adidas Samba was structured for indoor soccer, which shows that it is constructed to offer excellent grip on indoor surfaces. The outsole of the Samba is designed of gum rubber, which is mushier and more stretchable than the rubber used in the Superstar. This permits better traction and control on indoor surfaces, creating the Samba a great option for indoor sports.
Regarding comfort, the Samba provides an EVA insole with excellent padding and foot support. The upper of the Samba is constructed of whole-grain leather, which is durable and offers a comfortable fit. The Samba also gives a deep-profile pattern that permits higher freedom of movement.
Superstar’s Durability
The Adidas Superstar is popular for its longevity and versatility. The upper of the Superstar is designed of whole-grain leather, a rigid and durable material that can resist regular deterioration. The Superstar also offers a rubber shell toe that gives additional protection for the toes.
The outsole of the Superstar is structured of standard rubber, which is a stiff and more durable component than the gum rubber utilized in the Samba. This makes the Superstar a great option for outdoor activities, as it can withstand rough terrain and severe weather conditions.
For comfort, the Superstar provides an EVA insole with excellent padding and aid for the feet. The deep-profile pattern of the Superstar also permits greater freedom of movement, making it a great option for diverse activities.
Overall, the Samba and the Superstar are hard-wearing, snug sneakers that offer outstanding performance. The Samba is best matched for indoor sports; on the contrary, the Superstar is more iconic and can be utilized for a diversity of activities, both indoor and outdoor.
Popularity and Influence
Samba in Popular Culture
The Adidas Samba has been a cultural image for over seven decades. Initially structured as an indoor soccer shoe, it rapidly became a famous choice for regular wear. Today, the Samba endures a popular sneaker among fashion fanatics and soccer fans alike.
Samba has been promoted in various movies, TV shows, and music videos. In the 1980s, it was beloved among breakdancers and hip-hop artists. In latest years, the Samba has been seen on the feet of celebrities such as Kanye West and Pharrell Williams.
Superstar’s Global Influence
The Adidas Superstar was first launched in 1969 as a basketball shoe. It rapidly attained fame among basketball athletes and hip-hop artists and is a popular sneaker.
The Superstar has had an international influence, with fans from all over the globe. It has been used by celebrities like Run-DMC, who admirably wore the sneakers without laces, and David Beckham, who has been spotted using them on various occasions.
Numerous associations have also discussed Superstar with fashion designers, musicians, and other companies. These collaborations have supported maintaining the Superstar relevant and famous among sneakerheads.
In the matter of popularity and influence, both the Samba and the Superstar have efficiently influenced sneaker culture. On the other side, Samba has an affluent history and cultural importance; the Superstar has a global impact and has been accepted by fans worldwide.
Price Comparison
Regarding price, the Adidas Samba and Superstar are comparatively economical compared to other sneakers in the industry. However, there are some dissimilarities in their pricing.
The Adidas Samba is typically cheaper than the Superstar. The cost of a pair of Sambas extends from $50 to $80, based on the color and size. Conversely, the Superstar’s cost ranges from $70 to $100, with some restricted edition versions costing more.
It’s worth mentioning that the cost of both sneakers may differ based on the retailer and the region. Furthermore, the price may also be influenced by the materials used in the shoe’s construction and additional features.
If budget is a concern, the Adidas Samba may be the finer option. However, if you’re willing to invest more for extra attributes and style, the Superstar may be worth the additional cost.
Sizing Comparison
Concerning selecting between Adidas Samba and Superstar, sizing is an efficient factor to consider. Both sneakers are accessible in various sizes, but there are some differences in their sizing table. In this part, we will contrast the sizing of Adidas Samba and Superstar.
Sizing Chart Of Adidas Samba
Adidas Samba is popular for its tight fit. The sizing chart of Adidas Samba differs moderately based on the model. According to Adidas, the Samba OG, the vegan, the Classic, and the Cycling Shoe all run slightly tight. Therefore, they suggest those with broader feet consider going half a size up for a finer fit. Following is a universal sizing chart for Adidas Samba:
| US Size | UK Size | EU Size |
| 5 | 4.5 | 37 1/3 |
| 5.5 | 5 | 38 |
| 6 | 5.5 | 38 2/3 |
| 6.5 | 6 | 39 1/3 |
| 7 | 6.5 | 40 |
| 7.5 | 7 | 40 2/3 |
| 8 | 7.5 | 41 1/3 |
| 8.5 | 8 | 42 |
| 9 | 8.5 | 42 2/3 |
| 9.5 | 9 | 43 1/3 |
| 10 | 9.5 | 44 |
| 10.5 | 10 | 44 2/3 |
| 11 | 10.5 | 45 1/3 |
| 11.5 | 11 | 46 |
| 12 | 11.5 | 46 2/3 |
| 12.5 | 12 | 47 1/3 |
| 13 | 12.5 | 48 |
| 13.5 | 13 | 48 2/3 |
| 14 | 13.5 | 49 1/3 |
| 15 | 14.5 | 50 2/3 |
Sizing Chart Of Adidas Superstars
Adidas Superstar also has a narrow fit, but it is more extensive than Adidas Samba. The sizing chart of Adidas Superstar is identical to Adidas Samba. The following is a general sizing table for Adidas Superstar:
| US Size | UK Size | EU Size |
| 5 | 4.5 | 37 1/3 |
| 5.5 | 5 | 38 |
| 6 | 5.5 | 38 2/3 |
| 6.5 | 6 | 39 1/3 |
| 7 | 6.5 | 40 |
| 7.5 | 7 | 40 2/3 |
| 8 | 7.5 | 41 1/3 |
| 8.5 | 8 | 42 |
| 9 | 8.5 | 42 2/3 |
| 9.5 | 9 | 43 1/3 |
| 10 | 9.5 | 44 |
| 10.5 | 10 | 44 2/3 |
| 11 | 10.5 | 45 1/3 |
| 11.5 | 11 | 46 |
| 12 | 11.5 | 46 2/3 |
| 12.5 | 12 | 47 1/3 |
| 13 | 12.5 | 48 |
| 13.5 | 13 | 48 2/3 |
| 14 | 13.5 | 49 1/3 |
| 15 | 14.5 | 50 2/3 |
The sizing chart is an extensive guide, and the fit may differ based on the individual’s foot appearance. Therefore, testing on Adidas Samba and Superstar is suggested before hitting the jackpot to verify the size.
Which is more comfortable to wear, Adidas Samba or Superstar?
The Samba has a mushy, suede upper with a comfortable fit and feel. It also contains a squishy gum rubber outsole that offers remarkable grip and traction, making it a great indoor wear option. The insole component for both Samba and Superstar is similar, using EVA foam that offers extreme ease to the users.
On the other side, the Superstar has a leather upper with a more hard-wearing and supportive fit. The graded rubber outsole is quite stretchable, making it snug for walking and running. Furthermore, the Superstar has a cushioned collar and tongue, giving extra padding and support.
The Samba may be the way to go if you prioritize a mushier, more feathery shoe with a great indoor grip. The Superstar may be the finer choice if you prioritize a more durable, supportive shoe with additional cushioning.
Can Adidas Samba be used for running or sports activities?
The Adidas Samba has been an iconic soccer shoe in the industry since the 1950s. While it is a famous regular footwear style, it is not constructed for running or sports activities. The sole of the Samba is designed from gum rubber, which offers good traction on harder surfaces like concrete but does not offer enough padding or impact absorption to create it ideal for running or sports activities.
The Samba’s minimal padding and thin leather upper make it unsuitable for running or sports activities. The scarcity of support and padding can cause discomfort and injury when used for top-impact activities. The Samba is constructed for soccer and contains a flat sole perfect for indoor surfaces.
While the Samba is not ideal for running or sports activities, Adidas provides various shoes manufactured for these activities. The Adidas Ultraboost, for instance, is a renowned running shoe that offers outstanding cushioning and support for top-impact activities. The Adidas NMD is another famous shoe adaptable for running and sports activities.
In conclusion, while the Adidas Samba is an iconic and versatile shoe, it is not perfect for running or sports activities. It is constructed for soccer and contains a flat sole that is absolute for indoor surfaces. Suppose you are searching for a shoe for running or sports activities. In that case, it is necessary to select a shoe that is particularly designed for these activities, just like the Adidas Ultraboost or NMD.
Are Adidas Samba or Superstar shoes better for casual wear?
Both Adidas Samba and Superstar shoes are famous options for regular wear. However, there are some dissimilarities between the two that may create one a better option for certain individuals.
Adidas Samba
The Adidas Samba was initially structured for indoor soccer, but it has since become a famous choice for informal wear. The Samba offers a suede upper and a rubber sole, making it delicate and snug for elongated periods. It also contains a classic pattern that has remained famous for decades.
One potential drawback of the Samba is that the suede upper may need more maintenance than other elements. It may be more prone to scuffs and marks, which could influence its appearance over time.
Adidas Superstar
The Adidas Superstar was constructed for basketball, but it has since become a famous option for regular wear. The Superstar offers a leather upper and a rubber sole, making it durable and snug. It also contains a signature shell-toe pattern that has become iconic.
One potential drawback of the Superstar is that it may be more heavier than other casual shoes. This could make it less snug to wear for elongated periods, mainly if walking or standing for extended periods.
Which One is Better?
Those who prefer the ease and lightweight pattern may prioritize the Samba, while those who agree on durability and versatile design may prefer the Superstar. Testing on both shoes is suggested, and seeing which one feels perfect for your needs.
Adidas Samba OG Vs. Adidas Superstar Originals
Adidas Samba OG and Superstar Originals are two of the most famous Adidas models. While both shoes contain an abundant history and have been in the market for decades, they have their dissimilarities. In this part, we will contrast Adidas Samba OG and Superstar Originals and detect your finer choice.
Design and Style
The Adidas Samba OG is an iconic and most common Samba silhouette in the industry. It is generally draped in a leather and suede amalgamation with a contrasting gum sole and the versatile Three-Stripe branding. Conversely, the Adidas Superstar Originals offer a rubber shell toe and a leather upper with the classic Three-Stripe branding.
The Samba OG has a streamlined and sleek design, creating it perfect for regular wear and sports. Conversely, the Superstar Originals have a thick and retro pattern, making them ideal for fashion and streetwear.
Comfort and Fit
Both shoes feature remarkable comfort and fit. The Adidas Samba OG offers a cushioned collar and tongue, giving excellent padding and support. It also has a deep profile design, creating it ideal for indoor sports and regular wear.
The Adidas Superstar Originals also offer outstanding comfort and fit. It offers a padded rubber outsole, giving excellent impact absorption and grip. It also has a broader toe box, making it ideal for people with extensive feet.
Durability and Quality
Both shoes are designed of top-quality materials, ensuring excellent longevity and quality. The Adidas Samba OG offers leather and suede upper, giving excellent durability and permeability. It also contains a gum rubber sole, offering excellent grip and durability.
The Adidas Superstar Originals also offer a leather upper and a rubber outsole, featuring excellent longevity and quality. It also has a fortified toe cap, creating it more hard-wearing and resistant to deterioration.
Adidas Superstar Trainers Vs. Adidas Samba ADV
Adidas Superstar and Samba ADV are two renowned trainers from Adidas that have been in the market for decades. Both shoes have iconic attributes and patterns that separate them from each other. In this part, we will contrast both shoes and help you determine which option is better for you.
Design and Materials
The Adidas Superstar trainers offer an iconic pattern with a grain-leather upper and trademark rubber shell toe design. The shoes are available in various colors, and the versatile three stripes on the edges complete the look. The Superstar’s upper is constructed of leather, which gives durability and ease.
Conversely, the Adidas Samba ADV has a streamlined design with a suede and fabricated upper. The shoes provide a translucent gum rubber outsole with a TPU heel clip that offers steadiness and support. The Samba ADV’s upper is engineered of suede and synthetic elements, which provide a delicate and porous feel.
Comfort and Fit
Both the Adidas Superstar and Samba ADV are structured for ease and support. The Superstar trainers are accessible with a cushioned collar and tongue, which feature additional cushioning and aid around the ankle. The shoes also have a padded insole made of EVA foam, which gives added ease and support.
The Adidas Samba ADV also offers a cushioned insole constructed of EVA foam, which provides extraordinary comfort and support. The shoes come with a cushioned collar and tongue, adding padding and support around the ankle. The Samba ADV’s lightweight pattern and absorbent upper make it a snug shoe for elongated periods.
Durability and Performance
The Adidas Superstar and Samba ADV are durable shoes that resist daily deterioration. The Superstar trainers offer a hard-wearing leather upper and are easy to clean. The shoes also contain a rubber outsole that gives excellent grip on distinct surfaces.
The Adidas Samba ADV’s fabricated suede upper is long-lasting and easy to clean. The shoes provide a translucent gum rubber outsole with remarkable surface traction. The TPU heel clip on the shoes offers additional steadiness and support, creating them perfect for sports and other physical activities.
In conclusion, the Adidas Superstar and Samba ADV are outstanding trainers providing comfort, support, and longevity. The Superstar trainers are a remarkable choice for a classic pattern with a leather upper. If you prioritize a slender design with a feathery and absorbent upper, the Samba ADV is the finer option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Adidas Samba and Superstar are versatile sneakers that have been famous for decades. Each shoe has its iconic attributes and advantages, creating it difficult to detect an obvious winner in the Adidas Samba vs Superstar debate.
The Adidas Samba is a feathery shoe initially structured for indoor soccer. It offers a suede upper and a rubber sole, making it a durable and snug choice for athletic activities. Conversely, the Adidas Superstar contains a leather upper and a rubber sole, offering a more voguish and versatile look.
Regarding style, both shoes have a distinct appearance that appeals to various people. The Adidas Samba has an iconic retro pattern perfect for those who prioritize a more vintage look. Meanwhile, the Adidas Superstar comprises a more modern and streamlined appearance adaptable for those who agree on a more contemporary style.
The Adidas Samba is a feathery shoe with good support and padding, while the Adidas Superstar is a weighted shoe with more steadiness and durability. Whether you are searching for a snug and supportive shoe for athletic activities or modish and versatile daily wear, Adidas has something to provide for both the Samba and Superstar.
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