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Adidas’s “Hottest Sneaker of 2025” Looks Even Better in Fall Colors

Is Samba summer finally over?

Adidas SL 72 SneakerAdidas

By Jack Seemer

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The SL 72 may lack the notoriety of the Samba but it still carries its own claim to fame. In fact, it has more than one …

The design debuted ahead of the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, arriving as one of the first Adidas models to showcase the brand’s now-iconic Trefoil logo.

It was also a favorite of the late Bob Marley, a connection that prompted Adidas to release a one-off version adorned with the artist’s signature.

blue adidas sl 72
Adidas first released the SL 72 ahead of the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich.
Adidas

Since then, the Sl 72 has found its way into the rotation of high-profile supermodels — not to mention the top of the Lyst Index — with Harper’s Bazaar calling it the “hottest sneaker of 2025” coming in into the new year.

Of course, what goes up must come down, and hype never stands still for long. However, a new crop of autumnal colorways will help the SL 72 close out the year on a high note.

Adidas SL 72 Sneaker
“Aurora Ivy” (pictured) is one of a handful of new colorways to join the design’s expanding lineup.
Adidas

Dressed for fall

Quietly released on Adidas’s official website, “Aurora Ivy” and “Earth Strata” see the SL 72 adopt dark green and light brown uppers — two fall-friendly departures from the bright hues that traditionally adorn the retro model.

Adidas SL 72 Sneaker
“Earth Strata” (pictured) sees the SL 72 adopt a light-brown upper and outsole.
Adidas

That said, there’s more going on here than a simple color swap.

Nylon makes way for a knit textile as the base material of the upper, matching the textured tongue while imbuing the shoe with late-summer breathability.

Adidas SL 72 Sneaker
The knit upper matches the texture of the tongue.
Adidas

Otherwise, the overlay panels retain their suede makeup, and the EVA midsole continues to deliver time-tested durability and comfort.

Adidas SL 72 Sneaker
The suede overlays and EVA midsole remain intact.
Adidas
Adidas SL 72 Sneaker
The overlays also extend to the toe cap.
Adidas

Availability and pricing

The new variants of the SL 72 are available now on Adidas’s official website. They cost $100 — the same price as the standard SL 72.

About the Author:

Jack Seemer is the executive editor at Gear Patrol, with over a decade of experience in product journalism. He currently reports on a wide range of topics, including footwear, watches, EDC, cookware and more.

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