SL 72

The adidas SL 72 is a slim retro running shoe from 1972, with a nylon upper, suede overlays and a thin, light sole. Since a major relaunch in 2024 it has become one of the most chosen low-profile models from adidas, especially the SL 72 OG. You see it on women and men, often in bold colours and prints.

The history of the adidas SL 72

adidas released the SL 72 in the year of the Munich Olympic Games. The name refers to ‘Super Light’ and to the year: above all, the shoe had to be light. It appeared in the adidas Olympic catalogue, but it was just as much intended for the everyday runner on the street.

Later in the 1970s the SL 72 became known outside sport, partly because it appeared in the TV series ‘Starsky & Hutch’. In 2024, in the run-up to the Paris Games, adidas put the model back in the spotlight. Since then new colours and collaborations keep appearing, for example with Liberty London and Bad Bunny.

Design: nylon, suede and a low sole

The SL 72 OG combines a lightweight nylon upper with suede on the toe, the heel and around the eyelets. The three stripes sit on the side in a contrasting colour. Underneath is a thin sole with a slightly raised heel, which gives the shoe the typical profile of a 1970s running shoe.

Alongside the OG there is the SL 72 RS. It has a thicker EVA midsole and therefore looks sturdier and a little sportier. If you want the original, flat look, choose the OG; if you want more cushioning, look at the RS.

Popular adidas SL 72 colorways

With the SL 72 it is mainly the prints and metallic shades that stand out. These are the pairs getting the most views on WOOVIN right now:

• SL 72 OG ‘Cow Print’ (W): a black-and-white cow print on the upper.
• SL 72 OG ‘Leopard Print’ (W): leopard print in brown and off-white, with orange accents.
• SL 72 OG ‘Silver Metallic Collegiate Navy’ (W): silver stripes on a dark blue base.
• SL 72 OG ‘Maroon’ (W): burgundy with light yellow and brown details.

What is the difference between the SL 72 and the Gazelle or Samba?

The SL 72 is a running shoe, whereas the adidas Gazelle and the adidas Samba come from training and indoor sport. That is why the SL 72 has a lighter, partly nylon upper and a sole with a small heel instead of a flat gum sole. The look is sportier and a bit more playful. If you are after a smooth suede sneaker, the Gazelle or the Handball Spezial suits you better.

How does the adidas SL 72 fit?

According to adidas, the SL 72 fits true to size, so you can order your usual adidas size. The model is built slim, though, with a narrow toe. With narrow or regular feet you will be fine in your own size. If you have wide feet, half a size up gives more room around the toes.

Buy the adidas SL 72 at WOOVIN

On WOOVIN you will find the SL 72 OG and the SL 72 RS, with many women’s versions in prints, metallics and collaborations. Choose the OG if you want the low 1970s profile and the RS if you like a bit more sole underfoot. For pairs with (W) in the name, check the women’s size chart.