The adidas Velosamba Has Plenty of Pedal Power
After with their first clipless road shoe in over 15 years, are expanding their bicycle-friendly footwear range with the Velosamba. An unexpected yet very welcome update to the terrace classic , this edition sees a sole plate retrofitted between the rubber cupsole to be compatible with pedal cleats. And there are some additional changes that give the Velosamba plenty of pedal power.
The aforementioned sole plate cores out a portion of the outsole’s forefoot, which allows compatibility with two-bolt cleat and pedal systems (e.g. Shimano SPD and Time ATAC). Because the plate is recessed into the sole, the cleat shouldn’t protrude excessively, massively upping the walkability factor – often a limiting aspect of dedicated bike shoes.
Elsewhere, the Velosamba’s upper uses a near-identical pattern to the OG Samba, and also adopts the same durable leather and suede upper. The upper has been treated for extra weather resistance for four-season riders, and the Three Stripes branding is reflective for extra safe visibility.
Sambas have been a long-time favourite within the cycling community, especially among the fixed gear crowd, whereby they’ve actually modded the shoes to take cleats. But now it’s official. The adidas Velosamba is out now (and almost sold out!) directly from adidas UK – hopefully they will be available in more colourways and regions to come.