Sandal Season Is Over - Here Are the "It" Trainers We're Replacing Them With

Are your Sambas looking a little worn out these days? It’s no surprise, given how this Adidas cult classic took over the fashion world in 2024. Out of the blue, what started as a low-key, soccer-inspired shoe became the “it” trainer, spotted on everyone from Kendall Jenner to Kaia Gerber – and subsequently sold out everywhere. Dakota Johnson wore hers with wide leg jeans and a cropped knit, while Hailey Bieber gave them a chic, tailored twist. These sleek, understated trainers became a go-to for fashion insiders everywhere, thanks to their minimalist design and unwatched wearability.

But let’s be honest—while we loved wearing our Sambas during the cooler months, the summer heat put our sneaker obsession on hold. After all, who wants to squeeze their feet into the sauna that is a closed shoe when it’s 25 degrees outside? Sandals took over, offering a much-needed breather for our toes. But now that the colder, wetter weather is creeping back in, it's time to lace up again—and the search for the perfect autumn trainer is on.

And in what is a shocker for no one, Adidas is holding firmly on to its crown, only this time its with the SL 72.

Originally launched in the summer of 1972 to coincide with the Olympic Games, the SL 72 was designed as a 'super light' running shoe. But as is often the way, what was once created for performance has now been adopted for daily wear. So how does it compare to the well-loved and well-worn Samba? The SL 72 adds a laid-back feel and a relaxed edge to casual outfits that’s just perfect for autumn’s more easy-going style. Its streamlined shape and retro aesthetic give it a timeless appeal, making it a perfect replacement for our beloved (but slightly overdone). Hollywood already has theirs in the bag - we've spotted Suki Watershouse styling hers with shorts and tights, while Emily Ratajkowski has given them a more polished twist by pairing them with tailored pieces. The Bear actress, Ayo EdebirIt, paired with a mini dress and tights on a night out. It just goes to show, they really go with everything.

What’s more, they come in every colour imaginable - a hallmark of Adidas' design ethos since the brand’s inception. So how will you wear yours? Whether you’re after a sleek black pair for an elevated, monochromatic look, or a playful pop of colour (we love the bright reds and blues) to add some fun to your outfits, there’s an SL 72 for every style. You can always opt for brown or cream tones to complement autumn’s penchant for warm neutrals. Either way, you better move fast if you want to add them to your line-up – the frenzy is on and they’re already getting trickier to cop. But don’t worry, we’ve rounded up our favourite in-stock pairs, available from Adidas, below.