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The best sneakers like Sambas that aren't quite Sambas
White sneakers are a staple in my everyday wardrobe, whether I'm wearing a dress or athleisure, so I was excited to try Gola's Viper Sneakers. These high-quality leather alternatives to Sambas offer a similar suede T-toe and a translucent gum sole. After removing them from the box, I was immediately impressed with their sturdy yet flexible feel. They felt comfortable on the first wear.
Although they look equally good with leggings or a sundress, my favorite styling choice for these shoes is to have them peeking out from underneath a pair of wide-leg slacks. They add a sporty touch, yet still manage to look polished. These fit true to size. They look good with various sock lengths, but I found them most comfortable with calf-length socks since the tongue of the shoe rubbed against my ankle a bit when I wore them with short socks.
These are probably my most-worn sneakers, and this is coming from someone with a closet that's practically brimming with them. I love that they carry the aesthetic impact of a pair of Sambas or Gazelles, but also have a quiet luxury thing about them. While folks with a high arch may want to add a pair of inserts to these, I find them to be pretty comfortable as-is for walking around all day. They do take a solid three to five wears to break in, but once you've gotten the leather to mold to your feet a little, you'll never want to take these off. — Sally Kaplan, executive editor
Recognizable by the signature blue stitching on the heel, Rothy's sustainable footwear utilizes a knit material that's crafted from recycled plastic water bottles. Plus, the insoles contain recycled foam, the rubber soles are carbon-free, the adhesives are non-toxic and vegan, and the brand uses biodegradable post-consumer recycled materials for its packaging. When I tested the brand's Lace Up Sneaker, I was impressed by the super comfortable knit fabric with no break-in period. I recommend sizing up in the cushy kicks that are available in five neutral hues, including a fun quilted design with blush ribbon laces.
Read more in our full Rothy's sneakers review.
Producing less CO2 than a single cheeseburger, Everlane's version of a plimsoll is the eco-conscious label's lowest-impact sneaker yet. The recycled cotton canvas shoe has a natural latex rubber outsole and recycled trims, giving it a conveniently lightweight design and a barely-there feel.
It's available in a goes-with-anything off-white and a colorful version with blue and red accents. Try swapping in your own laces or charms to make your plimsolls really pop.
If you prefer a statement sneaker, consider Alohas' low-top leather style. It's available in dozens of vibrant hues like orange, pink, and lime, alongside neutrals in cream and ivory. Exposed stitching, perforated details, and contrast accents up the style factor, while the rubber sole keeps them comfy.
Read our full Alohas review.
A suede sneaker is a perfect fall style without going full bootie. Seavees' leather-and-suede design with a memory foam footbed is also crafted with plenty of recycled materials in the sport mesh lining, cotton insole cover, polyester laces, and rubber outsole. A fun detail: The shoe (named after the Bay Area Clippers soccer team from the 1960s) has a grippy bottom with a colorful terrazzo-like design.
The classic shoe (beloved for its pliable leather and thin, bendable sole that's great for athletes) was recently reinvented with an upgraded design. The new Mexico 66 SD features a refined and more comfortable silhouette while delivering the same sporty-chic style as its predecessor, the Mexico 66. Choose from 14 colorful and muted hues.
If totally flat sneakers are too taxing on your feet, consider Adidas' SL72 style. They look similar to the Sambas but with a slightly raised heel, which can help reduce pressure and alleviate pain. The textile and leather shoe with a rubber outsole comes in 16 unique colorways, including a patterned burgundy option inspired by ornate carpets.
A quilted design elevates these leather kicks, available in five colorways including a metallic silver. They offer lots of comfort, too, thanks to a cushy, supportive footbed. If you have a wide foot, consider sizing up for a more comfortable fit.
The organic leather that makes up these stylish kicks is super soft and pliable, although they also come in canvas and suede versions. Additional materials include a bio-based E.V.A. from sugar cane, recycled rubber, and recycled polyester. Whether you prefer a lime green leather pair with lilac contrast or a camel-colored suede with black leather details, these are sure to be the focal point of your outfit.
These lightweight leather sneakers with suede accents soften and gain a vintage look with each wear. The rubber gum sole adds traction and a retro look. They're great if you want a subtle pop of color — like a fuchsia Nike logo — without an entirely colorful shoe. Customers report they run a bit narrow, though, so they may not be the best fit for people with wide feet.
Beckett Simonon shoes are made-to-order, eliminating unsold inventory. The brand also takes pride in creating a favorable work environment for its employees and using the highest quality leather.
The Morgan Trainers feature a full-grain leather outer with water-repellent suede detailing. Their Vachetta leather lining is temperature-regulating, moisture-absorbing, odor-controlling, and breathable to keep feet feeling fresh and comfortable. The rubber sole is strong yet flexible and water-resistant.
These kicks merge a Sambas-inspired look with J.Crew's signature preppy-cool style. Available in leopard-print and silver metallic versions alongside two more classic neutral hues, the shoes are crafted with retro faux-suede details and finished with cool contrast stitching.
These Pumas offer comfort and style, and they're roomy enough for people with wider feet. The retro-inspired sneakers have a low profile, leather upper, and a rubber sole. Another point to consider: Puma has received the Fair Labor Association accreditation for upholding fair labor standards throughout its supply chains and improving working conditions.
A velcro closure helps differentiate these sneaks from Sambas and makes putting them on effortless. The gummy sneakers are crafted from leather and synthetic materials with a rounded toe and contrast detailing. Customers report a comfortable fit, a soft terry-cloth fabric interior, and true sizing.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly alternative to Adidas Sambas, these 100% synthetic shoes are less than half the price. They come in nine colors, including metallic gold and a two-tone wine red. Amazon customers say the soles are well-made and the shoes feel comfortable and cushioned.
Dolce Vita generally offers a wide variety of colors and patterns in their shoes, and these suede sneakers are no exception. They come in 20 colorways including an icy blue suede with white accents, a leopard-print calf hair version with sparkling silver details, and a sunny yellow. Customers appreciate that these shoes can be dressed up or down, although they run slightly narrow.
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