The Leopard-Print Sneaker Everyone Wants

I bought my first pair of Sambas last season and I haven't taken them off since. They go with everything – literally everything – and there's something about a low-profile sneaker that just feels right at the moment.

But Adidas has been quietly doing something even more interesting. The Leopard Magic pack takes three of their terrace icons – the Samba, the Handball Spezial, and the Japan – and gives them the animal print treatment. Not in a costume-y, trying-too-hard way. In a textured, pony hair, surprisingly-restrained way that actually looks expensive. And this month the Handball Spezial Loafer drops in leopard print too – no laces, a forefoot strap, and the kind of silhouette that works with wide-leg trousers or a midi skirt as easily as it does with jeans.

Here's my thing with animal print: it's not a statement, it's a neutral. A plain outfit with one wild accent – that's the formula. It adds texture, a bit of colour, a little bit of personality without trying too hard. And leopard specifically has always felt timeless to me. It's been cool for seventy years and it's not stopping now.

Practically speaking, these are also just the perfect shoes for June and July. Bush holiday? Leopard print in leopard country – consider it dressing for the occasion. Midweek dinner? Done. Non-muddy rugby game on the side of a field? Done. They're the kind of shoes that make a simple outfit look considered.

Animal print is having a serious moment. But honestly, it never really left.

Adidas Leopard Magic – Samba, Handball Spezial, Japan and the new Spezial Loafer | adidas.co.za