In 1949, Adidas designed the Samba to help football players train on icy, hard ground, featuring a unique suction pattern on the gumsole for better grip. Its original look included the classic three stripes and a gold trefoil on a foldable tongue. Over the years, the Samba evolved into the Samba Millennium, without the extended tongue, and the Samba '85, while vintage versions are still produced as Classic M.

The Samba's name is a subject of debate; some say it was inspired by the 1950 World Cup in Brazil and its samba music, but Adidas claims it was nicknamed at German football matches. Today, the Samba remains an iconic symbol of innovation and timeless style, beloved both on and off the pitch.