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Suede Showdown: adidas Campus vs. Gazelle

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Suede Showdown: adidas Campus vs. Gazelle

May 29, 2025

Looking for that next pair of adidas with a buttery suede finish but not sure which to choose? When comparing the adidas Campus vs. Gazelle, both have all the retro appeal and both are super easy to style, but the differences between the adidas Campus and Gazelle go beyond those surface-level aesthetics. 

Here’s a bit more about the fit, features and the durability of each lifestyle shoe, so you can make a more informed decision — or just splurge on both pairs.

adidas Campus

The Origins of the Gazelle & Campus

The adidas Originals Gazelle came first — all the way back in 1966 as a performance running shoe. That’s not surprising given the slender-horned, light-framed animal known for its bursts of speeds as high as 60 miles per hour. With its low profile and streamlined design, the adidas Gazelle was the OG when it came to suede running shoes; the sport was previously dominated by all-leather makeups. It wasn’t until the 1980s that the adidas Campus made its debut, originally as a basketball sneaker. However, it quickly became a favorite of hip-hop artists, sneakerheads and skaters, who enjoyed the sporty suede detailing, chunkier silhouette and additional padding. The latest version of the sneaker, the adidas Campus 00 shares the same DNA as the original, but its chunkier look derives directly from the Y2K era.

adidas Campus

Design Details: What’s the Difference Between adidas Campus and Gazelle?

Both sneakers have rubber outsoles, classic Three Stripes branding along the sides and gold foil or embossed branding. 

Here are a few ways in which the silhouettes differ: 

  • Both use real suede or leather, but the Gazelle’s thinner sole and tongue make it feel more agile, while the Campus’ thick tongue and heel counter provide extra support and cushioning.
  • The Gazelle is lighter and more flexible, making it ideal for all-day wear and for those who prefer a minimalist feel. 
  • Since the Campus is heavier and more padded, it tends to offer superior comfort for longer walks and a more secure fit, especially around the heel counter. 
  • The adidas Campus 00s are built for skater style, so they have a more generous fit, whereas the Gazelle is more narrow and streamlined. 

Both shoes are impressively durable and resistant to wear, especially at the toebox, earning top marks from wearers for longevity. The bottom line, though, is if you want something chunky and bold, go for the Campus 00s. If you prefer sleek and vintage, the Gazelle is your move.

Colorways of the Campus & Gazelle

Here are a few ways to sport both sneaker silhouettes: 

Both the Campus vs. Gazelle are popular for a reason — they’re timeless, understated and comfy. So, if you’re looking for a recommendation on which silhouette wins the suede showdown, we think you should try both. Shop adidas Originals online, or visit us in person at your local Hibbett store.

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