7 Best Classic Adidas Sneakers in 2026
We buy shoes ourselves. We earn commissions when you buy through us, at no extra cost. Why trust us
When it comes to classics, it is undeniable that Adidas flashes into mind as they offer multiple timeless kicks that are never too ancient to be stylish and functional. If this is the style you're after, we looked at our lab data to help you find exactly what you need: a specific combination of ground feel and energy return, or shock absorption and stack height, or you want something for wet weather that won't become slippery? We covered it all.
We scrutinized Adidas classic sneakers by wearing them in our daily and casual outings. We thoroughly tested them in the lab. After a thorough process, we weighed the pros and cons and determined the best picks.
How we test classic Adidas sneakers
To provide you with 100% objective and independent, we vet Adidas classic sneakers for all kinds of activities. Our process includes:
- Purchasing Adidas classic sneakers using our own money. We specifically do this to avoid brand loyalty and bias.
- Writing in-depth reviews about shoes that we’ve thoroughly tested ourselves. We use the sneakers for a variety of tasks to determine the actual performance, fit, and comfort.
- Testing the sneakers in our independent lab. We cut them in half, measure and test everything, from shock absorption, traction, insole thickness, and softness to breathability and toebox width.
- We publish these in-depth reviews in a way that allows you to filter, rank and compare Adidas classic sneakers by their price, ranking, durability, shock absorption, and any other feature.
Best Adidas classic sneakers overall
What makes it the best?
No other sneaker can rival the Adidas Stan Smith. Boasting an era-defining silhouette that debuted in 1965, this sneaker indisputably reigns as the supreme among all Adidas classics. Drawing from the outcomes of our comprehensive lab testing, Stan Smith's reputation is solidified by its enduring durability and unparalleled versatility.
The Stan Smith is a universally recognized name, which greatly contributes to its effortless styling. We discovered that its versatility has cemented its status as a fashion essential, seamlessly transitioning from streetwear to casual wear to sporty attire. Over the course of its six-decade history, this classic Adidas sneaker has amassed a collection of over 400 colorways.
In our lab, we further assessed the sneakers by scratching them with a power drill. We fitted a metallic wire brush to the drill and deliberately scuffed the upper. However, Stan Smith took the beatings like a real pro as only a minimal amount of residue resulted from all the abrasions.
We also took the sneakers to the court and on the road. After hundreds of hours of playing and walking, the leather showed no signs of wear and tear. We also noticed that the upper is very easy to keep clean. In the lab, we replicated the scenario by applying colored chalk to the toebox. With just water and wet wipes, the chalk was easily removed, keeping the leather looking pristine.
As a word of caution, however, we do not recommend Stan Smith to people who are seeking immediate comfort. During our testing we found them to take some time to break in.
Pros
- Classic silhouette
- Numerous colorways and collaborations
- Easy to style
- Durable
- Weatherproof
Cons
- Runs large
- Lack of support
- Takes some time to wear in
Best soccer inspired Adidas classic sneakers
What makes it the best?
No other Adidas classic sneaker even comes close to the Adidas Samba as the best soccer-inspired kick. We found that this sneaker has reached the pinnacle of versatility with its active casual aesthetic. What ultimately set the seal on this sneaker as the greatest is its well-built structure and deluxe support.
We pushed the limits of the Adidas Samba’s endurance through consistent everyday wear and lab-conducted durability tests. Its upper and heel counter resisted the abrasive effects of our Dremel tool, so we rated both parts 4/5 in durability. On the other hand, we appreciated the strong grip performance of Samba that got us out of wet and slippery settings with utmost safety. We measured the hardness of the outsole to be 76.9 HC, which we found to not only be 8.5% softer than other sneakers’ outsole but also have a powerful traction hold onto smooth surfaces.
Although this sneaker is easily bendable to 30 degrees at only 12.4N force, we faced zero wobbling. This stems from the low-profile stance of the sneaker. The snag we hit is the limited air circulation in the upper. Scoring only 3/5 in breathability, the Adidas Samba is something we don’t suggest wearing in summer.
Pros
- Clean and minimalist style
- Unbelievably affordable
- Real leather and suede
- Comfortable in-shoe feel
- Long-lasting construction
- Lighter than average
- Highly flexible build
- Good grip for casual use
Cons
- Poor breathability
- Tongue slides to the side
- Not for all-day wear
- Slippery when wet
Best training inspired Adidas classic sneakers
What makes it the best?
Due to its retro elegance and indisputable functionality, we designated the Adidas Gazelle as the leading training-inspired sneaker from the Adidas classic selection. It highlights a union of sporty and classy styles that closes the gap between athletic looks and casual ones! Also, this sneaker is as fierce as its name, Gazelle, when it comes to durability!
We confirmed through our intense wear and tear evaluation that this training-oriented sneaker is formidable. We didn’t face any issues with the Adidas Gazelle, durability-wise, as it didn’t obtain any impairment. The fantastic thing about this is it only came in at a modest price of $100. It boasts a 31.9% price advantage over the average cost of sneakers.
With respect to the in-shoe experience, we also appreciated the comfort we felt immediately the moment we stepped on this pair. However, we noticed that the Adidas Gazelle is more suitable for moderate casual wear. You may want to consider better-cushioned options for all-day support.
Pros
- Timeless elegant look
- Excellent value for money
- Real suede
- More than 20 colorways
- Promising durability
- Flexible design
- Supportive foothold
Cons
- Poor breathability
- Tongue is rough and squeaks
- Not for all-day wear
Best basketball inspired Adidas basketball sneakers
What makes it the best?
The premier basketball-inspired choice from the Adidas classic sneakers is the Adidas Superstar. Fused with this sneaker’s rich basketball heritage is a fantastic style and an unexcelled on-foot feel. And with an affordable price of $90, the Adidas Superstar isn’t only 23.3% more discounted than most sneakers but also a terrific classic choice.
We verified that the incredible pleasure that the Adidas Superstar offered during our intensive wear tests is due to its arch-supportive midsole and spacious toe area. Due to this, we are able to sport the sneaker all day without even a slight hint of twinging and soreness.
We also loved the sturdiness of the Adidas Superstar that didn’t let us down even in the face of constant wear. We found the quality of the leather outstanding, however, we also discovered that it started out rigid. Therefore, if you want something that doesn’t need a break-in period, we recommend exploring other Adidas classic options.
Pros
- Iconic style
- Generously padded and comfy
- Nice and flexible
- Sufficient arch support
- Very durable toebox
- Accommodating toebox
- Lots of colorway options
- Affordable
- Excellent grip for urban surfaces
Cons
- Needs breaking in
- Average breathability at best
Best handball inspired Adidas classic sneakers
What makes it the best?
Adidas Spezial may only be handball-inspired but its over-the-top comfort, excellent robustness, and firm lockdown made us feel otherwise. This is the main reason why among the Adidas classics, Adidas Spezial is, well, the most special handball-influenced kick.
We tested for the stiffness of the Adidas Spezial using our standardized test, and the result revealed a lack thereof. The sneaker exhibited minimal resistance to bending with only 4.7N of force, implying it’s 63.9% more flexible than average. Wearing this kick for extended hours is as comfy as it is from the beginning because of how easy it is to move our feet with the pair.
Our worries about the extreme flexibility is an insecure fit. All our concerns were put to rest by the heel counter, which we gauged to have a rigidness of 3/5. This provided us with a secure lockdown without any sense of constriction. The sneaker also underwent our durability test where we exposed its toebox and heel padding, to our Dremel. These parts showcased toughness, scoring 4/5 in durability. The outsole only gained a 0.5 mm deep mark, which is 54.5% less than the markings in other kicks.
When it comes to fit, we found that wide-footers are at a disadvantage. The widest section of the toebox is close to the average at 97.9 mm but on the foot, it felt tight. Check the fit personally first before adding it to your shoe collection.
Pros
- Premium materials
- Easy to slip on
- Great all-rounder
- Extremely flexible and comfy
- Pleasantly lightweight
- Solid lockdown
- Signature old-school look
- Easy on the wallet
- Dozens of colorways
- Great grip for a gum sole
Cons
- Slim profile
- Not ideal or wide feet
- Dirt and dust magnet
Most comfortable classic Adidas sneakers
What makes it the best?
The Adidas Campus 00S effortlessly channels the timeless look of the Campus 80s, evoking a sense of nostalgia with its classic design. Its monochromatic color scheme and bold branding trace back to the retro vibe, pairing seamlessly with a variety of outfits. Adding to its charm is the unmatched comfort delivered by its exceptionally padded yet breathable upper and supportive base.
Visually, the Campus 00S is reminiscent of classic sneakers from decades past with its chunky tongue and exaggerated sole. However, the midsole remains grounded and delivers a high level of ground feedback, giving us a higher sense of control over our movements. Our caliper confirms only 24.6/14.5 mm of cushioning separating our feet from the ground.
The substantial 23.0 mm tongue padding vs. the 8.8 mm average pampered our feet with a gentle embrace. Despite its predominantly genuine leather construction, the Campus 00S offers impressive ventilation, thanks to strategically placed ventilation holes. Serving their purpose, they ensure ample airflow, earning the shoe an impressive 4/5 breathability rating in the lab.
However, while the Campus 00S excels in style and ventilation, the midsole lacks cushioning for extended wear. Our durometer reveals it’s 20.1% firmer than average, which may not be ideal for those seeking a plush ride.
Pros
- Extremely padded tongue and collar
- Spot-on fit
- Soft leather upper
- Worth the price
- Old-school vibes
- Stylish for casual fits
- Comes with two extra sets of laces
- Excellent outsole traction
Cons
- Slightly heavier than usual
- Firm and unresponsive midsole
- Difficult to clean and maintain
Best lightweight classic Adidas sneakers
What makes it the best?
The Adidas SL 72 is a casual retro kick inspired by the brand’s 1972 track spike. Honoring its roots and its name, lab tests reveal it is indeed “Super Light,” both in terms of build and resistance because of its minimalist profile. Among the Adidas classics, it’s our best lightweight sneaker.
SL 72 helps keep us nimble and fatigue-free with its minimal 10.9 oz (308g) weight. Compared to the average sneaker, it’s 21.0% lighter, making it easier to maneuver. Moreover, its low resistance to bending enhances its airiness. Our bend test verifies that it’s 36.8% more flexible than the average sneaker, enhancing both its comfort and versatility.
We credit its low weight and high adaptability to its thin stack, with precise caliper measurements of 28.9/17.0 mm. It offers a strong ground connection, which our shock absorption test verifies with a low 58 SA score.
Because it lacks compression and support, the SL 72 isn’t ideal for long hours of walking and standing. These activities require more cushioning underfoot.
Pros
- Notably lighter than average
- Retro track spike vibes
- Good quality suede
- Sturdy construction
- Durable jagged outsole
- Flexible forefoot
- Affordable price point
- Plenty of vivid color options
Cons
- Not for hot weather
- Lacks arch support and stability
- Not for wide feet
- Upper creases when walking
- Can be slippery on wet
What makes classic Adidas sneakers… classic?
Obviously, it’s the looks. The design that was and still is impossible to say no to. The iconic 3 stripes (except in the Superstar, which features perforations in 3 rows) would not have been so successful and popular, with new colorways and collabs released almost yearly, without comfort and quality. That’s what we look into in our lab.
When it comes to comfort, we discuss: stack height, softness, shock absorption, and energy return. When it comes to quality, we look at the durability and the leather type (real/fake). Let’s start with comfort.
Classic Adidas models overview
|
Model |
Released in |
Pairs sold worldwide |
Initially made for |
|
Adidas Samba |
1950 |
35 million |
Football players and icy ground |
|
Adidas Stan Smith |
1965 |
100 million |
Tennis |
|
Adidas Gazelle |
1966 |
N/A |
Training, indoor handball |
|
Adidas Campus |
1970 |
N/A |
Basketball, skateboarding |
|
Adidas Superstar |
1969 |
15 million in 2015 only |
Basketball |
|
Adidas SL 72 |
1972 |
N/A |
Marathoners |
|
Adidas Busenitz |
2009 |
N/A |
Skateboarding |
|
Adidas LA Trainer |
1984 |
N/A |
Lifestyle |
|
Adidas Handball Spezial |
1979 |
N/A |
Handball |
Stack height and heel drop of classic Adidas sneakers
When we cut the sneakers in half, first we measure the stack heights. We do this at 12% and 75% of internal shoe length (honoring the WorldAthletics guidelines).
Knowing the stack heights tells us how high off the ground our feet are when wearing these sneakers. This is important because sneakers that are low to the ground allow for ground feel, meaning your feet can sense the changes on the surface, bumps, maybe even small cracks. High-stacked sneakers offer no ground feel, only midsole feel. This is more comfortable for many, but such sneakers are also less flexible and less agile.
These stack heights also allow us to calculate the heel drop. Heel-to-toe drop = heel stack height minus forefoot stack height. It basically tells us how steep the platform is, if at all, because some sneakers have a zero drop (they are flat).
Looking at Adidas classic sneakers, almost all have high drop: going from 7.4 mm to 14.4 mm. Now that is VERY high. Realizing whether you want something higher or lower is easy. Figuring out how different heel drops can affect your legs? Might take more time. We recommend reading this article: Heel to Toe Drop: The Ultimate Guide.
Classic platforms: what’s inside and is it good for you?
Sneaker design is more than just a story. We dissect them into halves, quarters, and tiny little pieces to understand and measure every piece of the puzzle. Adidas classics certainly have a few surprises up their sleeves.
No-midsole midsole?
The moment we cut the sneakers in half, we can see all the different layers. And this is where Adidas sneakers stand out: some models don’t have a foamy layer at all! It’s rubber with air pockets.
Looking at the classic models, we found hollowed sections instead of a proper midsole in Samba, Samba OG, Handball Spezial, Gazelle, Superstar.
Energy return and shock absorption
If we look past this, for the sake of focusing on functionality, we can understand that the fact that there’s no foamy midsole does not stop Adidas classic sneakers from delivering a comfortable ride. But how comfortable is it?
This is a test that we use to measure both energy return and shock absorption at the same time
When it comes to energy return, or how responsive and lively the midsoles are, classic Adidas sneakers average at 47.1%. Most of them do stick to the 44-55% range, which is considered moderate.
However, when it comes to shock absorption, the numbers are not that good and there’s a perfectly reasonable explanation. Shock absorption tells us how protective the midsoles are or how good they are at dampening the impact every time our heels hit the hard ground. For it to be good, the stack has to be high and the foam needs to be good. Adidas classic sneakers are not that high off the ground and many don't even have the foam.
In Adidas classic sneakers, the shock absorption is low to moderate at best! The average is only 58 SA, and we would need numbers in the 80-105 SA range for moderate shock absorption, and higher than 105 SA for very protective midsoles.
Softness loses the spotlight
You may wonder why we haven’t focused on the softness of the midsole. The answer is simple: the data set is too small, thanks to many models having no foamy midsoles. We can’t measure the softness of an empty pocket.
We managed to measure the softness of the midsoles on 3 models only and the results were quite surprising: they are firm! Anything higher than 30 HA is considered firm, and one sneaker scored 44.8!
Durability of Adidas classics
Will the sneaker show signs of wear and tear prematurely? Do you need to be extra cautious or can you wear the pair with no worry in sight? Will the investment pay off? Let’s find out.
We perform 3 durability tests and all 3 are done with a Dremel. These tests are, of course, standardized, meaning that every sneaker gets the same treatment (same time duration, same force, same RPMs).
After the dremel test is done, we look at the damage and assign it a 1-5 rating, where 1 is the least durable and 5 the most.
However, when we do the outsole durability test, we don’t have to assess the damage.
Given the nature of the outsole material, we can use a tire tread gauge to precisely measure how deep the Dremel tip got into the outsole. The deeper the hole, the less durable the sneaker outsole! Anything shallower than 1 mm is considered good durability.
The average toebox durability of classic Adidas sneakers is 4.5! Crazy good! The outsole durability (1.0 mm) is just around the average (1.1 mm).
Leather and suede in Adidas classics: real or fake?
Leather and suede are used a lot in classic Adidas sneakers. To determine whether they are real or not, we use a fire test. We basically torch a small area and watch what happens.
This is how fake leather/suede looks on fire - they burst into flames and become very sticky:
On the contrary, real leather/suede smells like burnt hair when torched and they are dry and easy to scratch:
Some sneakers feature both real and fake materials. In our lab tests, we note them as real if the majority of the sneaker is made of real leather/suede, or fake if the majority of the upper is fake materials.
Classic Adidas sneakers are NOT wide-foot friendly
For a sneaker to be comfortable for people with wide feet or wide toeboxes, it needs to have a wide fit or a wide toebox. It sounds simple, but the thing is, brands do not offer the inner-volume numbers, and there’s no standard protocol that would cover the fit properly. So, we had to invent our own.
The lab team came up with a special gel formula. First, it’s a liquid that’s easy to pour into the sneaker. Then, after it has hardened in the freezer, we take a gel mold of the sneaker’s interior out of the sneaker. This allows us to measure everything we need: width, toebox width, and toebox height.
Those with wider feet need more room where the sneaker is the widest, while those with wide forefoot need wide toeboxes (we measure this at the big toe).
Below, we can see all this data for classic Adidas sneakers. It’s not difficult to notice that none of them crosses the limit from medium to wide. Looking at the toebox height, we would recommend people with voluminous toes to look away from Adidas SL 72; it has an insanely low toebox: only 20.7 mm high, while the average for sneakers is 27.8 mm.
Note: all the gel tests we do are done on sneakers bought in Men’s US size 9, regular width.
Traction: grippy or slippery?
Some of us want sneakers to look good and to be safe when the weather turns for the worse. We’ve all witnessed some unfortunate tourists grabbing other people, poles, trees, handrails, only because rain caught them on slick tiles, cobblestones, or new crosswalks (fresh paint can be slippery). How to avoid this? Look for sneakers with high traction.
In the lab, we test the sneaker traction following the SATRA TM144 methodology. We press the sneaker at a 7-degree angle with a force of 500N against a wet surface. Anything higher than 0.45 is considered safe for both wet and dry surfaces.
Most sneakers score between 0.25 and 0.45, which is good for dry weather but may slip when water enters the scene. Based on the numbers, we would not recommend wearing Samba OG (traction score of 0.23) in wet conditions!
Adidas classic sneakers are budget-friendly!
Here, we’re talking about their average MSRPs, or the average manufacturer’s suggested retail price. This tells us how much they cost when they were released. Of course, many of these models get special releases that may cost more, especially if done in collaboration with celebrities. But, overall, the OG models are very budget-friendly. The average price of Adidas classic sneakers is $98.7, while the average price of all sneakers is $124.8.
How can Adidas classic sneakers disappoint you?
Well, most of them scored 2 or 3/5 on our breathability test. This means that, on average, they are not the best summer sneakers (for that, they would need a 5/5 breathability test score).
And, neither of them features a heel tab. If you’re pulling those when putting the sneakers on, you will be disappointed.
Sources
- https://report.adidas-group.com/2024/en/group-management-report-our-company/description-of-business-model/product-and-marketing.html
- https://wwd.com/business-news/business-features/feature/stan-smith-adidas-100-million-pairs-sold-1203702042
- https://www.adidas.com/us/blog/1060275-we-gave-the-world-a-gazelle-a-sneaker-icon-with-a-timeless-history
- https://sneakernews.com/2022/05/27/history-of-the-adidas-gazelle-2022/
- https://wethenew.com/en/pages/adidas-campus-story
- https://www.adidas.ie/go/campaign/originals/archive/spezial#:~:text=Originally%20designed%20for%20elite%20athletes,following%20far%20beyond%20the%20court.
- https://www.goat.com/editorial/beginners-guide-to-adidas-sneakers
- https://sneakernews.com/2022/11/25/adidas-samba-2022-releases/
- https://www.grailed.com/drycleanonly/adidas-stan-smith-history
Similar buying guides
