Adidas Spezial review
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all sneakers.
Verdict from 100+ users
Pros
- Soft and smooth entry
- Premium materials
- Surprisingly lightweight
- Appealing throwback style
- Breathable
- All-rounder
- Plenty of color choices
- Absolutely affordable
Cons
- Slim profile
- Dirt and dust magnet
71% say it's true to size.
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Rankings
- Our 1st pick in best Adidas sneakers for women
- Top 7% in sneakers
- Top 13% in Adidas sneakers
- Top 2% most popular sneakers
Comparison to similar sneakers
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Who should buy the Adidas Spezial
This sneaker from the Adidas Originals family is worth focusing on if:
- you want vintage sneakers covered mostly in premium suede
- minimalist sneakers are your cup of tea
- you are looking for the cheapest pairs from Adidas
Who should NOT buy it
If you are wide-footed or have bunions, you might find this sneaker a bit constricting. Consider similar styles like the Superstar and Gazelle since these are typically built with a roomier toe box.
Gentle on the ankles
This shoe also holds ample cushioning on the tongue and collar. Walking on this throughout the day feels comfortable.
Treated with high-quality materials
Wearers appreciate the craftsmanship of this shoe, where the upper utilizes premium suede. They say it's a bang for their buck since it comes affordable and doesn’t wear out soon.
Easy to carry around
Many wearers highly praise the lightness of the Adidas Spezial. It doesn't feel heavy at all.
Fascinating vintage flair
Many users praise this kick’s timeless appeal, from its treated suede cover to its old-school gum sole and heel patch. It’s often mistaken for the Adidas Gazelle as they both display the iconic T-Toe overlay as well as the heel-to-toe suede treatment.
Clean and straightforward
The simplicity of the Adidas Spezial's silhouette is a magnet for men and women looking for a go-to sneaker for casual styling. Its straightforward design makes it easy to mix and match with many everyday clothes.
Shuts off excess moisture
A couple of reviewers mention that this pair has ample ventilation that keeps their feet feeling fresh and dry.
Unique glow no matter its color
Adidas released striking colorways for this shoe, from neutral, earth tones to a fascinating blend of bold and vibrant shades.
Slimmer than other Adidas sneakers
Broad-footed users would need to size up as this shoe is a tad narrow than most Adidas kicks.
Attracts dirt quickly
A few reviewers mention that the Adidas Spezial is hard to maintain as it gets dirty quickly.
Adidas Spezial history
In 1979, the Adidas Spezial was first launched as a handball shoe in Germany and was worn by some world's most excellent players from Holland, Germany, and Scandinavia. Handball is an indoor game that requires heavy-duty footwear that can deal with sharp movements and hard frictions.
During the Casuals movement in the 80s, this handball footwear became a staple kick in the fashion world. Several travelers praised the comfort and stylish facade of the Adidas Originals Spezial. Like other shoes in the Adidas Spezial collection, they realized that this sporty kick goes well with jeans and other casual male outfits in the 80s.
The Adidas Spezial is made of high-quality suede upper with excellent cushioning. It is seated on a thick rubber gum sole with a heel panel for added reinforcement. This shoe displays an uncomplicated and straightforward look that enhances its versatility and timelessness.
Meanwhile, the gum sole improves the striking feature of this kick. It has a cleat-inspired outsole constructed to increase durability.
The first Adidas Original Spezial launched was in white/black, red/white, white/blue colorways. The Three Stripes brand expanded the colorways of the Spezial and was adopted by various designers and specialist sneaker stores.
Forty years after it was initially introduced, the brand re-launched it with timeless elements, such as premium suede, iconic Adidas brandings, and the gum sole. The Primeknit version was also launched recently.
The Adidas Spezial Primeknit showcases the familiar silhouette modernized with the lightweight and durable woven upper. The brand renovated the collar into an elastic, foot-hugging sock-like construction to enhance its overall fit. Meanwhile, the brand kept the iconic rubber gum sole to maintain the throwback vibe.
Facts / Specs
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Adidas Spezial unboxing and on-feet videos
