Adidas Samba vs. Gazelle vs. Spezial Comparison
Adidas has a long history of producing iconic sneakers, but a few select styles have been in the spotlight over the last few years. Enter, the Samba, Gazelle, and the Handball Spezial. Although originally created as athletic shoes, all three have had a huge presence in streetwear and they have quickly become my go-to sneaker of choice for most days of the week. Although they all have a similar look, each style has subtle differences that could be the deciding factor on which one you add to your rotation.
I own and wear all 3 styles often, so I thought it would be helpful to break down the fit, structure, and key differences in an Adidas Samba vs. Gazelle vs. Spezial comparison.
Need help with sizing? See: Adidas Samba Sizing Guide + Review | Adidas Gazelle Sizing Guide + Review
Adidas Samba: The Timeless Classic
Fit + Structure
+ Upper: Typically features a mix of leather and suede overlays, with the iconic T-toe design
+ Sole: A thin, gum rubber sole designed originally for indoor soccer
+ Fit: Runs slightly narrow
+ Support: Offers a snug fit with a relatively low profile
Sizing + Comfort
In my opinion, the Samba generally runs true to size with a slightly narrow fit.
I have a narrow foot and wear a true size US7. When I buy in EU sizing, I almost always buy an EU38 but the Adidas size chart differs slightly. I have Adidas Samba styles in both the 38 and the 38 2/3 and while they both fit, I prefer the fit of the 38 2/3 because it's a smidge roomier in the toe. This makes sense because on the Adidas website, an EU 38 2/3 translates to a women's US7, which is my true American size. European brand sizing can sometimes be tricky - definitely check out my Adidas Samba Sizing Guide + Review for a much more in-depth explanation!
The Sambas are the least comfortable shoe of the three, but that doesn't mean they're uncomfortable by any means. The mostly leather upper gives them a slightly stiffer, more structured fit compared to the Gazelles & Spezials. That said, the Sambas were comfy right out of the box for me and broke in immediately.
Adidas Gazelle: The Stylish All-Rounder
Fit + Structure
+ Upper: Made of soft suede with a more streamlined design
+ Sole: Textured rubber sole with a slightly thicker profile than the Samba
+ Fit: Runs slightly narrow but has a bit more give than the Samba
+ Support: Lightweight with minimal arch support
Sizing + Comfort
In my opinion, the Gazelle generally runs 1/2 size large with the same narrow fit as the Samba.
I have a narrow foot and wear a true size US7. When I buy in EU sizing, I almost always buy an EU38 but the Adidas size chart differs slightly. According to Adidas, an EU38 translates to a women's US6.5 and this is the size that works best for me. Since this shoe runs on the narrow side, if you have an extra wide foot, consider taking your true size.
When comparing the insoles of both the Samba and the Gazelle, they are identical in length and width, which you'd think would translate to the same fit, but due to the suede, the Gazelle's have a bit more give and feel slightly looser overall. They're extremely comfortable right out of the box.
Adidas Handball Spezial: The Underrated Gem
Fit + Structure
+ Upper: Premium suede with a reinforced toe and a retro aesthetic
+ Sole: Soft gum rubber sole offering excellent grip and cushioning
+ Fit: Less narrow than the Samba and Gazelle, making it a great choice for those with wider feet
+ Support: Features a slightly more cushioned sole with both arch and heel support
Sizing + Comfort
In my opinion, the Spezial generally runs 1/2 size large with a slightly wider fit than the Samba + Gazelle.
I have a narrow foot and wear a true size US7. When I buy in EU sizing, I almost always buy an EU38 but the Adidas size chart differs slightly. According to Adidas, an EU38 translates to a women's US6.5 and this is the size that works best for me.
The fit of the Handball Spezial differs the most from the Samba and the Gazelle. It's an overall wider fit than the other styles, making it a great option if you've found the Samba or Gazelles to be too narrow. Like the Gazelles, the Spezial's suede body makes for a more pliable and extra comfortable fit. You definitely feel a difference in the arch and heel support of this sneaker!
Main Differences: Samba vs. Gazelle vs. Handball Spezial
Hope this Adidas Samba vs. Gazelle vs. Spezial comparison was helpful! I truly love all 3 styles, the unique colorways and new drops that Adidas is continuously turning out and it can be hard to know where to look first. The styles I'm currently wear most often are the Samba OG in Cloud White/Core Black, the Handball Spezial in Alumina/Core Black/Cloud White and the Samba OG in Earth Strata.
If a particular sold out colorway is high on your wishlist, I recommend websites like StockX, Farfetch or GOAT. All of these sites are legitimate and verified resale marketplaces where you can find brand new, in-box styles. StockX is always my first choice! I've bought many shoes from them and the process has always been super quick and smooth. My only complaint is that the fees and shipping are a little steep compared to if you were buying from a traditional retailer — but if you really want it, those are the spots to check out!
