adidas Samba OG vs New Balance 530
Get the 530. Unless you want the slim terrace look for the city and the office — then the Samba OG.
adidas Samba OG
Slim, light and built to last. Narrow at the toes, with almost no cushioning.
New Balance 530
Light, breathable and well cushioned for all-day wear. The toe area wears out first.
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The 530 is light, cushioned and breathable, and stays comfy through hours of walking, for a little less. The Samba has the slimmer look and tougher leather and suede, but a thin, flat sole and a narrow toe.
- —You want the slim terrace look.
- —You walk short distances, not all day.
- —You want them to last.
- —You want one comfy pair for every day.
- —You walk a lot in warm weather.
- —Your feet aren't narrow.
Key differences
Pros and cons
- +Light and flexible
- +Real leather and suede that lasts
- +The slim terrace look
- −The gum sole is slippery on wet floors.
- −No arch support; you feel stones underfoot.
- −Most owners say it runs true to size.
- +Comfortable for hours of walking
- +Light and breathable
- +A little toe wiggle room
- −The toe box wears through quickly.
- −Thin insole — swap in your own if you need support.
- −Runs true to size.
Ready to choose?
- Is the Samba OG worth it?
- Is the NB 530 worth it?
- Samba OG vs Gazelle
- NB 530 vs NB 9060
- Gel-1130 vs NB 530
- Gel-1130 vs NB 9060
- Best sneakers
How we reached this verdict
We compared independent expert reviews with the manufacturer's specifications, then checked it's sold at a major retailer where you live. We don't test products ourselves.
Sources: RunRepeat: ASICS Gel-1130, RunRepeat: adidas Samba OG, RunRepeat: adidas Gazelle, RunRepeat: New Balance 530, RunRepeat: New Balance 9060, RunRepeat: Nike Air Force 1 '07, RunRepeat: Reebok Club C 85, manufacturer specifications.