Is the Adidas SL 72 OG actually worth the hype, or are Kiwi sneakerheads just FOMO-ing over US exclusives?

Why is the Adidas SL 72 OG everywhere in 2026?

If you have spent more than five minutes on social media this month, you have seen them. The slim profile, the jagged rubber sole, and that unmistakable T-toe. The Adidas SL 72 OG has officially dethroned the Samba and the Gazelle as the 'it' shoe of 2026. Originally designed for the 1972 Munich Olympics (hence the 'SL' for Super Light), this silhouette has made a massive comeback in the US and Europe.

But why now? It is a mix of the 'retro-tech' aesthetic and the shift away from chunky, oversized sneakers. People are looking for something low-profile that pairs well with both baggy trousers and tailored fits. In 2026, the trend has leaned heavily into '70s track nostalgia, and the SL 72 OG is the poster child for that movement. However, if you are reading this from Auckland or Christchurch, you have probably noticed a frustrating problem: our local shelves are looking a bit empty.

The New Zealand struggle: Why can't we find the best pairs locally?

Let’s be honest, being a sneakerhead in New Zealand often feels like being the last person invited to the party. While US retailers like Foot Locker, GOAT, and the official Adidas US store are stocked with every colorway imaginable—from the classic blue and yellow to the new 2026 limited editions—New Zealand stores often only get a handful of basic colors. If you want the specific OG materials or the high-end collaborations, local malls just aren't cutting it.

This is where the skepticism kicks in. Is it worth paying the 'New Zealand tax' at a boutique shop that managed to import three pairs, or is there a better way? Most Kiwis are now looking directly at the US market to bypass the local markup and the lack of variety.

The US advantage: Better stock and exclusive colorways

The US market is currently the epicenter for the SL 72 OG resurgence. Because of the sheer volume of retailers, you can often find sales that simply don't happen here. Even with the exchange rate, buying from a US store can sometimes be cheaper than buying from a local reseller. More importantly, you get access to the full size run. Nothing is worse than finding the perfect pair only to realize the largest size in stock is a men's 4.

The logistics of the haul: Using a package forwarder

The biggest hurdle for Kiwis is that many US retailers still don't ship directly to New Zealand, or if they do, the prices are astronomical. This is why most seasoned shoppers use comGateway. By using a reliable package forwarder, you get a tax-free US shipping address. You buy your Adidas SL 72 OG from your favorite US store, ship it to that address, and then have it forwarded to your doorstep in NZ.

It is a simple workaround that opens up thousands of stores that previously felt off-limits. Instead of settling for whatever is left on the shelf at your local mall, you can shop the same sales that people in New York or Los Angeles are hitting.

Calculating the damage: Shipping rates and GST

Before you get too excited and fill your cart, you need to talk about the 'hidden' costs. Shipping a single pair of shoes across the Pacific isn't free, and you need to factor in international shipping rates. Generally, the more items you ship at once, the cheaper it becomes per item. If you are worried about the cost, you should use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost before you commit to the purchase.

Regarding NZ Customs: Remember that New Zealand law requires GST (15%) to be paid on imported goods. Many large US retailers collect this at checkout, but if they don't, you might have to handle it through the courier. Even with GST and shipping fees, many Kiwis find that the total price for a rare colorway of the SL 72 OG is still more justifiable than paying inflated local prices for a shoe everyone else is already wearing.

How it works: A quick guide for the New Zealand buyer

If you have never imported sneakers before, don't worry—it’s actually pretty straightforward. Here is the step-by-step guide to getting your 2026 kicks:

• Step 1: Sign up for a free US address through a forwarder.
• Step 2: Shop at any US retailer (Adidas US, Nike, Nordstrom, etc.) and use your new US address at checkout.
• Step 3: Once your shoes arrive at the warehouse, you'll be notified.
• Step 4: Choose your shipping method. If you are in a rush to show off your new SL 72s, choose express. If you want to save money, economy is the way to go.
• Step 5: Relax and wait for your delivery. The process of shipping from USA to New Zealand is surprisingly fast these days, often taking less than a week with express options.

The Verdict: Should you pull the trigger?

So, is the Adidas SL 72 OG worth the extra steps? If you value having a unique look and want a shoe that is incredibly comfortable for daily wear, the answer is a resounding yes. While the Samba is great, the SL 72 offers a bit more cushioning and a distinct '70s vibe that feels fresh for 2026.

Don't let the Pacific Ocean stand between you and a fresh pair of OGs. By being a bit savvy with how you shop and utilizing the right tools to get your gear home, you can stay ahead of the trends without overpaying. Just make sure to check those size charts—US sizing can be tricky for us Kiwis!