adidas Samba OG

First look

The Samba OG started as an indoor football shoe and is now one of adidas' best-known casual sneakers. The white version, Cloud White / Core Black / Gum (B75806), pairs a full grain leather upper with a suede T-toe overlay, black three stripes, gold foil lettering and a gum rubber cupsole. It is CA$130 at adidas Canada, Sport Chek and Foot Locker Canada, which also lists a women's Samba OG in white and black at the same price.

Its low, slim profile makes it a good match for wide-leg trousers, skirts and dresses, and it reads less sporty than a chunky court shoe. Sizing is unisex on adidas Canada, from M 3.5 / W 4.5 to M 19 / W 20, and adidas says it fits true to size. The black stripes and gum sole mean it isn't an all-white shoe; if you want white from toe to heel, look at the Stan Smith instead.

In a Canadian winter, the suede T-toe and thin gum sole are the weak points: suede marks easily with salt and slush and needs a suede brush and protector spray. Keep it for dry days in fall and spring. Our picks are based on construction, materials, price and availability in Canada; hands-on Lab results are being added as each pair finishes testing.