adidas Turns the Handball Spezial Into a Loafer

adidas Originals is continuing to blur the line between sneakers and traditional footwear with the Handball Spezial Loafer “Core Black,” a dressed-up take on one of the brand’s most recognizable terrace silhouettes.

The hybrid keeps plenty of the Spezial’s DNA intact, but swaps its familiar lace-up construction for a penny loafer-inspired upper. Smooth black leather covers the shoe, with a traditional strap running across the forefoot and a small gold Trefoil adding a subtle adidas touch.

From the side, the sneaker influence becomes much clearer. adidas’ signature white Three Stripes stretch across the quarter, while a dark rubber sole keeps the low-profile shape and casual feel associated with the Handball Spezial.

It’s another example of adidas leaning into the growing sneaker-loafer crossover, taking a model rooted in indoor sport and terrace culture and giving it a more formal look without completely losing its identity.

The adidas Originals Handball Spezial Loafer “Core Black” is available now for $130 via adidas.com and select retailers.

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