It’s been quite a time for sports shoes over the past few seasons—and now it is time for the Adidas SL 72 trainers to take the spotlight. With 75 years of history to its name, the athletic conglomerate has revitalised the trainers category over the past year with the much-hyped Samba, eye-catching collaborations with brands such as Wales Bonner and the continued success of the Gazelle. As a brand that knows all about creating a brilliant trainer, Adidas is once again offering up a trending heritage style that fashion people simply can’t get enough of. Now the lesser known Adidas SL 72 trainer has piqued our interests.
Bella Hadid wearing the Adidas SL 72 Trainers.
The commonality between these beloved styles is their sporting influence. The Samba first emerged in football games whilst the Gazelle was destined for indoor training and the lightweight SL 72 was originally launched in the summer of 1972, coinciding with the Olympic Games, as a running shoe. As often happens in fashion, the style has now been adapted from its original sporty purpose and integrated into everyday wardrobes to add a laid-back feel and relaxed edge to classic trainer outfits. From stylish women across Europe to celebrities including the ever-chic Bella Hadid and Emily Ratajkowski, we've spotted the SL 72 styled with silk trousers, loungewear, tailoring, jeans, skirts and more. Truly, it's a shoe that does it all.
Emily Ratajkowsk wearing the Adidas SL 72 trainers.
Part of the appeal comes from their streamlined silhouette—a far cry from the chunky-sole trainers that took hold a few years ago. As we've witnessed quiet, understated design rise to the top, these pared-back trainers have become even more inviting. They're versatile, too. Whether you copy Ratajkowski's look and create a sportier aesthetic, or try Hadid's interpretation and give them a retro spin, they offer so many styling options. What’s more, colourful trainers are particularly prominent in 2025, already bubbling up as one of the year's major trainer trend. This is something that has been at the heart of Adidas’ designs since the brand's origin, and the Adidas SL 72 trainer is offered in a range of bold, neutral and contrasting hues to revitalise any shoe collection.
As with all in-demand Adidas trainers, these are proving quite tricky to get hold of, but I've found the chicest selection of in-stock pairs, so act fast.
These are definitely one to watch.
SHOP ADIDAS SL 72 TRAINERS:
This particular colourway is selling fast.
Liven up any look with a summer-ready yellow and blue combo.
Leopard print shoes are having a moment, and we love this trainer version.
These will give the Onitsuka Tiger a run for their money.
The crochet stripe and high-octane red makes this pair another fun colour to choose from.
Gorgeous if you fancy neutrals over bright hues.
I love the different textures and shades, especially as someone obsessed with the suede shoe trend.
Pair with all your favourite neutrals.
Stan Smiths are a true classic.
The Taekwondo is already taking over the street style set.
Thin soles are here to stay.
