In the late 1970s, adidas blessed the sneaker world with its Islands collection, serene nods to some of the most beautiful locations on the globe. These included the Samoa, the Jamaica, the Tahiti, the Hawaii, and more. At first glance, it appeared to have been a colorway story. But closer examination would show a savvy sneakerhead some subtle differences from one model to another.
The Samoa, which debuted in 1977, featured a “T” pattern on the toe box and a raised toe bumper originally designed to offer protection for indoor soccer training.
The shoe’s re-release in 2011, under the streetwear-focused adidas Originals banner, revived that OG silhouette. The full-grain leather upper includes suede overlays and sits atop a lightweight EVA foam midsole. The raised toe bumper, and the Trefoil logos on the tongue and on the insole, offer a visual recollection of its athletic roots. Today, the Samoa is a cultural icon in street fashion and can be seen almost anywhere.
It wasn’t long after that adidas Originals re-released other legendary styles. The Gazelle, available under the early ’90s EQT line, began life as a running style meant for international games of the early 1960s. The Samba was an indoor soccer shoe that, because of its street sensibility, has that’s become an adidas best seller behind the Stan Smith. And the Campus has returned, not just on its own but also as part of a notable collaboration with Pharrell Williams.
Anything you choose from the adidas Originals collection is your connection to a time when dedication and performance ruled the world.
Finish Your Classic Look
The adidas Originals Samoa is an easy choice for the base of any throwback look. So finish your outfit it with Originals-inspired apparel.
Track tops and track pants feature the well-known 3-Stripes branding down both sleeves and outer legs, and the small Trefoil logo on the chest and at the hip stands for a storied connection to athletic and cultural history.
Sweatpants and hoodies are a natural fit together, and T-shirts give you an easy layering option. Check out the full adidas collection at Foot Locker today.
