Both are Adidas models, but lasts differ. Samba OG is labeled Runs Narrow (True to size length; half up if wide feet). Handball Spezial is True to Size (True to size; half up if wide feet).
Adidas positions Samba as true to size with a regular-but-narrow fit; RunRepeat and wearer reports agree length is TTS while the toebox pinches wider feet. Stick to your usual size if narrow/average; go half up primarily for width, not length.
Handball Spezial is generally true to size in length and often cited as the roomiest of the Samba/Gazelle/Spezial terrace trio. Wide feet who bounce off Samba frequently land here at TTS or half up. Soft suede stretches — narrow feet who want lasting lockdown sometimes half down to avoid later heel slip.
Use the table below as a starting point from fit offsets — then confirm with try-on or returns. Width can matter more than length between these two.
| Samba OG | Handball Spezial | |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict | Runs Narrow | True to Size |
| Advice | True to size length; half up if wide feet | True to size; half up if wide feet |
| Width | Narrow low-volume last — common complaint | Roomier than Samba among terrace trio; pliable suede stretches |
| Break-in | Leather needs short break-in | Suede molds quickly — expect more volume after a few wears |
| Fit offset | +0 | +0 |
| Confidence | high | medium |
If the left model fits at the listed size, start here in the right model (same brand chart + fit offsets).
| If Samba OG fits | Try Handball Spezial | Note |
|---|---|---|
| US 7 | US 7 | offset +0 |
| US 7.5 | US 7.5 | offset +0 |
| US 8 | US 8 | offset +0 |
| US 8.5 | US 8.5 | offset +0 |
| US 9 | US 9 | offset +0 |
| US 9.5 | US 9.5 | offset +0 |
| US 10 | US 10 | offset +0 |
| US 10.5 | US 10.5 | offset +0 |
| US 11 | US 11 | offset +0 |
| US 12 | US 12 | offset +0 |
Full Samba OG guide · Full Handball Spezial guide · Reverse compare · Open in converter