Want to buy adidas Samba online but not sure which size to choose? You’re in the right place. In this guide, we explain, in the simplest possible way, how Samba fits, why adidas uses those unusual sizes such as 42 2/3, and how to convert EU, UK, and US sizes without getting it wrong. Two minutes of reading and you’ll order the right size the first time.
How adidas Samba fits (clear answer)
Samba fits true to size, but has a tapered toe. In practice:
| Your foot | Which size to choose |
|---|---|
| Normal or narrow foot | Your usual size |
| Wide foot or high instep | Half a size up |
| With thick socks | Half a size up |
Another thing to know: the upper of the Samba OG is made of genuine leather, so it may feel slightly stiff during the first few days before softening and adapting to your foot. Models made from synthetic or vegan materials give much less, so if you are between two sizes, the larger one is the better choice.
Why adidas uses "third sizes" (42 2/3, 44, 44 2/3...)
No need to panic: adidas does not use classic European half sizes (42.5), but third sizes, which result from the precise conversion from UK sizes. It is simply a different way of writing the same thing: an adidas 42 2/3 is essentially the "42 and a half" used by other brands. Use the chart below and forget about it.
adidas Samba size conversion chart
The most reliable reference is the foot length in centimeters (last column).
| EU (adidas) | UK | US Men | Foot (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 38 2/3 | 5.5 | 6 | 23,8 |
| 39 1/3 | 6 | 6.5 | 24,2 |
| 40 | 6.5 | 7 | 24,6 |
| 40 2/3 | 7 | 7.5 | 25,0 |
| 41 1/3 | 7.5 | 8 | 25,5 |
| 42 | 8 | 8.5 | 25,9 |
| 42 2/3 | 8.5 | 9 | 26,3 |
| 43 1/3 | 9 | 9.5 | 26,7 |
| 44 | 9.5 | 10 | 27,1 |
| 44 2/3 | 10 | 10.5 | 27,6 |
| 45 1/3 | 10.5 | 11 | 28,0 |
| 46 | 11 | 11.5 | 28,4 |
The same EU sizing scale applies to women: Samba is a unisex model, so only the range of available sizes changes. Approximate measurements in cm from the adidas chart.
How to measure your foot in 30 seconds
Measure at the end of the day (when the foot is slightly more swollen), with your heel against the wall and your foot on a sheet of paper. Mark the tip of your longest toe and measure the distance in cm from the wall to the mark. Compare it with the last column of the chart: if you’re right between two sizes, choose the larger one.
And compared with other adidas models?
The Handball Spezial and Gazelle fit very similarly to the Samba: the same rule applies, choose your usual size, with the option of going half a size up for wide feet. If you’re coming from wider models (such as running shoes), the Samba will feel more snug: that’s normal, as it was originally designed as an indoor football shoe in the 1950s.
Find your Samba
Now that you know your size, choose the model: in our adidas Samba collection you’ll find the Samba OG in suede and seasonal colorways, with free shipping on orders over €149 and returns within 30 days: if the size isn’t perfect, you can exchange it hassle-free. Take a look at all our men's sneakers and women's sneakers too.
Frequently asked questions about adidas Samba sizing
Do adidas Samba run large or small?
They fit true to size, but the toe is tapered: people with wide feet will be more comfortable with half a size up.
What is the difference between 42 2/3 and 42.5?
None, in practice: adidas expresses half sizes as thirds derived from the British scale. 42 2/3 corresponds to the classic 42.5.
Do Samba shoes stretch with wear?
Leather models (such as the OG) soften and adapt to the foot after a few days; synthetic or vegan models give much less.
Are Samba and Gazelle the same size?
Yes, the fit is very similar: if you know your size in one of the two models, you can use it for the other as well.
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