Making you want to update your fall shoe rack already: adidas classic Handball Spezial turns into silver loafers
The one pair you really need to watch this fall!
The line between sneakers and loafers seems to be getting blurrier. From the Sneaker Loafers appearing this year to major brands reinterpreting classic styles, “Hybrid Shoes” have become one of 2026’s footwear trends to watch. This time, adidas Originals has teamed up with Japan’s FREAK’S STORE to rework the classic Handball Spezial, first released in 1979, as a laceless loafer, proving once again that classic sneakers still hold endless possibilities.
- Related reading: ASICS teams up with Griff to reimagine the GEL-CUMULUS 16, and the dreamy ribbon laces are almost too good!
The new Handball Spezial Loafer retains the Spezial’s signature low-cut silhouette and rubber outsole, removing the laces entirely for a slip-on loafer design. The retro sporty sneaker takes on a sharper, more formal feel. Its suede upper is paired with soft leather Three Stripes, while the side is accented with the classic gold Spezial lettering. The details still feel familiar, yet the overall style is completely different.
The debut colorway is the recently much-discussed Metallic Silver, pairing metallic silver with off-white and gray details. It brings a futuristic edge to the minimalist silhouette and makes the shoe more likely to take center stage in an outfit. Whether paired with dress pants, jeans, or a pleated skirt, it strikes a balance between formal and casual. From the Samba and Gazelle to the Handball Spezial, adidas has continued to give its classic shoes new forms over the past few seasons, and the Sneaker Loafer trend is still going strong. If you’re already tired of regular sneakers, this new style, which combines the comfort of a sneaker with the texture of a loafer, may be one to watch this fall.
The FREAK’S STORE × adidas Originals Handball Spezial Loafer “Metallic Silver” is now officially available through adidas Japan’s website and select retailers in Japan for ¥15,950. It is currently available exclusively in Japan.
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- Make room in your fall-winter shoe closet in advance: Hermès 2026 fall-winter footwear collection, these boots and loafers get more charming the more you look at them!
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