adidas Handball Spezial Sizing: How Do They Fit?

The adidas Handball Spezial has been trending across socials since the rise of blokecore and terrace silhouettes. What used to be a special model for adidas aficionados around the globe has become a go-to for sneakerheads. Originally released as a handball performance shoe in 1979, it now belongs on the streets of the streetwear universe—serving as a blank canvas for notable collaborations and themed colourways. If you're thinking of adding the adidas Originals Handball Spezial to your rotation today, you first need to ask yourself this question: How does adidas Spezial fit?

Are they true to size? Are they comfortable? Keep reading on because all your questions about adidas Handball Spezial sizing will be answered right here by our in-house product experts.

For me, the Handball Spezial easily fits true to size. It sort of has a wider shape around the midfoot area but that isn't really a deal-breaker for me as the lace-up closure system allows me to tighten or loosen the fit depending on the thickness of my socks.

I've actually played handball in them before so I already knew that wearing them all day for casual use wouldn't be a problem at all in terms of comfort.

The adidas Handball Spezial has a really strong retro vibe! Try not to wear skinny-fit trousers with them and opt for a slim or regular fit instead. I have a few pairs and I rock them with some Carhartt trousers.

I'm very careful when it comes to cleaning the Spezials because of the super-soft suede materials on them. I use liquid repellant spray from Jason Markk to reduce the chances of stains and dirt.

My Handball Spezials fit pretty true to size. I've got quite narrow feet so sometimes there can be a bit too much room around the mid section, but I think the shoes natural slim profile helps with that!

They're quite comfortable actually. I usually wear mine just out and about casually but since they were made for handball and indoor sports I'd be interested to see how they hold up in the gym.

I usually style them with a baggy light-wash jean for a bit of a classic "dad at the bbq" look. I then like to keep things simple up top with a plain white Stussy Stock Logo Tee. If I'm feeling like a bit more of football-casual look, I might whack one of my Stone Island jackets on top to finish.

I clean them the same way I clean all my shoes, with my Jason Markk home cleaning kit. The stuff hasn't let me down yet, I've just got to remember to be a bit more careful around any suede parts.

If you’re about to buy a pair of adidas Spezial I’d say to go true to size. Like with many adidas shoes, there’s no need to size up or down. If you’re a UK8 that’s the size you should go for.

When you put the Spezials on foot you can instantly feel the cushioning. Despite not being a running shoe, you still get a great amount of comfort from this terrace classic. But, I would say there are better options if you’re going to be on your feet all day, like the adidas Ultraboost.

The origins of this shoe are in football culture, so it makes sense to style them around this. Opting for a pair of jeans and an overshirt is a great way to style these adidas trainers.

With the Spezial being constructed from suede, you need to be careful when cleaning them. Use a soft bristle brush, a specialist cleaning solution and try not to use too much water or you might damage the suede.

It's clear to see that the adidas Handball Spezial is still a relevant footwear choice for many, despite being many years old. And long-term fans of the sportswear powerhouse will agree that brand expert and adidas head Gary Aspden has contributed significantly to the silhouette's on-going presence in the community—thanks to the adidas Spezial exhibtion he first hosted back in 2013 showcasing the Three Stripe brand's rare colourways and collabs.

The Handball Spezial's level of comfort and durability is all because of the supple OrthoLite sockliner, fully-cushioned midsole, and the grippy gum rubber outsole underneath. If you are struggling to choose a design today, then it's not a problem as there are many more coming on the way so stay locked in right here with us at The Sole Supplier for all the latest adidas release dates.