Grace Wales Bonner has an undeniable talent for creating timeless, iconic sneakers that appeal to fashion lovers and sneakerheads alike. Her Adidas collaborations, celebrated for their meticulous attention to detail and elevated design, have cemented their place as must-haves in the footwear world. But with such high demand comes a familiar frustration: They sell out almost immediately. If you missed last year’s sought-after Wales Bonner Samba ‘Core Black’, don’t worry: Adidas is back with the Samba ‘Black Pony’, a new version that’s sure to fill the void.
The return of a modern classic
The Adidas Samba ‘Black Pony’ emerges as a worthy alternative to the coveted Wales Bonner Samba ‘Core Black’. At first glance, the two models appear almost identical. Both feature a sleek black upper made from soft pony hair, providing a luxurious texture rarely found in sneakers. Crisp white details accent the back and sides, creating a sharp contrast to the dark base, while metallic gold eyelets add a touch of opulence. Signature gum rubber midsoles infuse both pairs with classic Samba tradition.
However, the ‘Black Pony’ is distinguished by subtle but impactful design choices. Unlike Wales Bonner’s version, which features leather overlays on the lacing system and toebox, the ‘Black Pony’ leans fully into its furry aesthetic with an all-pony hair construction. Additionally, the extra-long tongue from Wales Bonner’s design is omitted, making it more versatile and wearable for everyday styling. For those looking for a balance between style and functionality, the ‘Black Pony’ is the perfect choice.
Why the Samba?
The Adidas Samba has had a remarkable resurgence in recent years, defying the cyclical nature of sneaker trends. Originally introduced as an indoor football shoe in the 1950s, the Samba has become a streetwear staple, prized for its sleek silhouette and enduring appeal. Although its popularity has waned at times, Adidas has remained committed to reviving the iconic model.
A series of recent collaborations and special editions have successfully revived Samba. From the Atmos partnership to the celebration of the ‘Year of the Snake’ and the Cordura-equipped iterations, adidas continues to prove that there is plenty of room for innovation within the timeless framework of the Samba. The ‘Black Pony’ is yet another shining example of how the brand is reimagining a classic while honoring its roots.
What distinguishes the ‘Black Pony’
The adidas Samba ‘Black Pony’ retains everything fans love about the original, while introducing a contemporary twist. The all-black pony hair upper exudes sophistication, complemented by crisp white accents and gold hardware that add just the right amount of contrast and flair. By removing the extended tongue – a hallmark of Wales Bonner’s design – this iteration becomes more accessible and attractive to those who value versatility in their footwear.
These subtle adjustments increase the overall wearability of the sneaker without compromising the high-fashion look. Whether you pair it with trousers for a polished look or with relaxed jeans for a laid-back vibe, the ‘Black Pony’ integrates seamlessly into a variety of wardrobes.
Why now is the time to get on board
If you’re hesitant to jump on the Samba bandwagon, ‘Black Pony’ might be the push you need. Adidas has been steadily building momentum around this iconic silhouette, and as collaborations and special releases continue to make waves, there’s no better time to embrace the trend.
Sneaker trends are cyclical and the resurgence of the Samba proves that true classics never fade. The ‘Black Pony’ delivers a modern innovation that honors the model’s heritage while catering to contemporary tastes. It’s a sneaker that’s as at home on the catwalk as it is on the sidewalk: a rare blend of versatility and timeless appeal.
How to get the ‘Black Pony’
The Adidas Samba ‘Black Pony’ will be available in the coming weeks through Adidas and select global retailers, with a price tag of approximately $100. Considering the success of Wales Bonner’s previous releases and the current buzz surrounding the Samba, it’s safe to saying that these will sell out quickly. If you’re hoping to get your hands on a pair, make sure you keep a close eye on the release dates and be ready to act quickly.
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Featured image: Adidas
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