Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead.

Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead.

      As summer draws near, we find ourselves pondering: What will be the next popular sneaker? While one might assume that trendy sandals and flats will dominate, the practical sneaker remains highly favored. Indeed, warm weather encourages open-toed footwear, but busy days transitioning from a park visit to dinner demand a comfortable sneaker. Traditionally, summer is when the sneaker of the year emerges, and Gen Z is already gravitating toward its preferred brand, Adidas. Given the success of past summer Samba sneakers and the brand's sought-after collaborations with Wales Bonner and Bad Bunny, it’s clear that Adidas's newest styles are set to capture Gen Z's attention. As a member of Gen Z, I can confidently share that we have four leading contenders.

      Last fall, the retro SL 72 sneaker was a favorite among stylish celebrities influencing Gen Z fashion, so I predict they’ll make a significant impact this summer. This spring, streamlined options such as the Tokyo and the trending Taekwondo—often seen in vibrant cow print across social media mood boards—are making waves in fashion circles. Continue reading to discover the four Adidas styles that Gen Z is excited about this spring and summer.

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      **Taekwondo**

      *Style Notes:* Inspired by martial arts, the laceless Taekwondo shoe features a sleek leather design that evokes early 2000s street style. It’s perfect for those hectic mornings when you just need to slip something on. The cow print is particularly eye-catching—it's such a bold way to make a statement. The Taekwondo also comes in a chic pink satin option and a trendy shiny silver.

      *Shop the Trainer:*

      - **Adidas Taekwondo Shoes:** Core to martial arts, these striking sneakers are a must-have for every trendsetter.

      - **ADIDAS ORIGINALS Taekwondo Striped Leather Sneakers:** Clean and sharp, editor-approved.

      - **Adidas Taekwondo Mei Shoes:** The future of retro style—sleek lines with major Y2K vibes.

      - **ADIDAS ORIGINALS Taekwondo Metallic Striped Leather Sneakers:** Metallic stripes enhance any low-effort outfit.

      **SL 72**

      *Style Notes:* Another favorite among celebrities is the SL 72, known for its bright colors and vintage appeal, making it an ideal choice for a trending Gen Z sneaker. Named after its 1972 release during the Olympics as a running shoe, the updated version remains lightweight and comes in various colors.

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      - **Adidas Originals SL 72 Women's:** Classic vibes, modern fascination.

      - **Adidas Originals SL 72 OG Trainers in Light Brown and Cream Crochet:** Crochet meets sporty in this unique icon.

      - **Adidas Originals SL 72 OG Trainers in Brown and Yellow:** Earth tones combined with retro stripes for an instant style boost.

      These are the nostalgic trainers everyone desires.

      **Country OG**

      *Style Notes:* The Country OG is the least recognized sneaker here, but it should not be overlooked. Similar to the SL 72, it's slightly slimmer and reinterprets the retro running shoe silhouette. Fun fact: it was first introduced in 1970 as a cross-country running shoe. Looking for a fresh white sneaker for summer? The all-white version is perfect for casual outfits.

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      - Classic kicks with a countryside flair.

      - **Adidas Originals Country OG Trainers in White and Burgundy:** Minimalist yet retro.

      - **Adidas Originals Country OG Shoes in Collegiate Green / Chalk White:** Fashionably track-ready with a stylish twist.

      **Tokyo**

      *Style Notes:* Editors have dubbed the Tokyo sneaker as the next Samba ("With sleek lines and a modern aesthetic, they embody everything we love about the Samba, but with a fresh perspective," as stated by U.S. editor Erin Fitzpatrick). This slim, retro-inspired shoe is already gaining traction among stylish celebrities, and its updated yet classic design appeals to Gen Z.

      *Shop the Trainer:*

      - **Adidas Originals Tokyo Trainers in White and Black:** Tokyo trainers add minimalist drama.

      - **Adidas Originals Tokyo Trainers in Black and White:** Sleek all-black style with a touch of contrast—your chicest pair yet.

      - **Adidas Originals Tokyo Women's:** Statement shoes that require minimal effort.

      Sunshine captured in sneaker form.

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Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead. Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead.

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Forget Sambas—Gen Z is opting for these four Adidas styles instead.

Purchase the adidas sneakers that are set to become viral and are already being sought after by Gen Z.