adidas Spezial Dorée
The adidas Spezial Dorée embodies this principle: finishes that make a difference without transforming the silhouette into something it's not. A 1970s handball shoe, reinterpreted with golden touches reminiscent of premium editions and the most sought-after SPZL capsules. Find available pairs in our selection of in-stock adidas sneakers, shipped from our French stores.
Gold in the adidas Spezial universe
The adidas Spezial line has existed since 2014. Gary Aspden, a British collector and creative director, launched it with adidas after organizing an entire exhibition on the brand's archives in 2013. The principle: unearth forgotten silhouettes from the 1970s-80s, reinterpret them with premium materials, and release them in limited quantities. Ten years later, SPZL has become one of the most respected lines in European sneaker culture.
Gold appeared gradually, first as a discreet detail - gold typography on the heel, metallic embossed logos - before becoming more prominent on more assertive versions, particularly in women's glitter variations and on certain special editions of the Gazelle SPZL. It's not a mass-produced colorway: golden Spezial shoes circulate in limited quantities, making them pieces that connoisseurs actively seek.
Features of the adidas Spezial Dorée
The base remains that of the adidas Spezial collection: suede or nubuck upper, low rubber sole, three serrated stripes on the sides, padded tongue, and slightly structured heel. What changes in the golden versions is the treatment of the finishes. The stripes are made of brushed metal or golden suede depending on the edition. The tongue embroidery and logos feature gold ink or thread. On glitter versions, the entire upper catches the light with an intensity that radically contrasts with the usual sobriety of the silhouette.
The result is a shoe that remains recognizable – the flat, low shape of the Spezial hasn't changed – but moves into a much more assertive register. It's the same grammar, with a different emphasis.
How to wear the adidas Spezial Dorée
Gold calls for restraint elsewhere in the outfit. A golden Spezial with an all-black look - tailored trousers, crew-neck sweater, oversized coat - is the most effective combination: the shoe becomes the only bright spot. It also works with raw denim and a thick white T-shirt, where the contrast between the raw material of the jeans and the reflections of the shoe does all the work. Avoid pairing the golden Spezial with other metallic pieces in the outfit – shine conflicts never do anyone any favors.
In terms of size, the Spezial runs true to size. The suede or nubuck upper softens slightly after a few wears. If you have wide feet, opt for half a size up – the shape remains relatively snug on the side panels.
Buy the adidas Spezial Dorée at The Last Step
The golden versions of the Spezial don't stay available for long. These are precisely the pieces that The Last Step stocks: low-run adidas editions, colorways that disappear before most buyers have had time to react. Founded in Toulouse in 2021, the store offers over 4,000 authenticated references, with 24 to 48-hour delivery from France and click and collect in Toulouse, Biarritz, and Montpellier. Free returns, responsive customer service.
Is the adidas Spezial Dorée a limited edition?
The golden colorways of the Spezial mainly appear in seasonal SPZL capsules and in some women's variations, in reduced quantities. These are not mass-produced editions – they circulate in limited volumes, which explains why they quickly disappear from shelves. Glitter versions and editions with gold logo finishes are among the most sought-after references in the line.
What is the difference between a Spezial Dorée and a classic Handball Spezial?
The construction is identical: same upper, same sole, same cut. What changes in the golden versions is the treatment of the finishes – metallic or gold suede stripes, gold thread embroideries and logos, or a full glitter upper depending on the editions. The silhouette remains that of the original 1970s Handball Spezial, but the style shifts from discreet sportswear to an assertive statement piece.
How to care for an adidas Spezial Dorée with glitter or gold suede?
For gold suede or metallic nubuck versions, use a soft natural bristle brush – never a stiff brush that would scratch the metallic treatment. Avoid solvent-based cleaning products. For glitter versions, a slightly damp microfiber cloth is sufficient for superficial stains. Store these pairs in their original box away from direct light to preserve the brilliance of the golden finishes.