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Both are Adidas models, but lasts differ. Handball Spezial is labeled True to Size (TTS for average/wide; half down if narrow (suede stretches)). Gazelle is Runs Big (Size down half a size (TTS if wide feet)).
Handball Spezial is the roomiest of the Samba/Gazelle/Spezial terrace trio for many wide feet at true to size. Soft suede stretches — narrow feet who want lasting lockdown sometimes half down to avoid later heel slip. Length guides still split TTS vs slightly long, so confidence stays Partial.
Adidas Gazelle typically runs slightly long versus a measured street size, so most narrow/average feet size down half. Wide feet often stay true to size because the last is still narrow through the forefoot — sizing down worsens pinch. Gazelle Indoor/Bold share the length rule; Bold changes stack height, not last length.
Use the table below as a starting point from fit offsets — then confirm with try-on or returns. Width can matter more than length between these two.
| Handball Spezial | Gazelle | |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict | True to Size | Runs Big |
| Advice | TTS for average/wide; half down if narrow (suede stretches) | Size down half a size (TTS if wide feet) |
| Width | Roomier than Samba among terrace trio; pliable suede stretches | Narrow-leaning suede forefoot — wide feet should stay TTS, not size down |
| Break-in | Suede molds quickly — expect more volume after a few wears | Minimal — suede softens a little |
| Fit offset | +0 | -0.5 |
| Confidence | medium | high |
If the left model fits at the listed size, start here in the right model (chart + fit offsets).
| If Handball Spezial fits | Try Gazelle | Note |
|---|---|---|
| US 7 | US 6.5 | offset -0.5 |
| US 7.5 | US 7 | offset -0.5 |
| US 8 | US 7.5 | offset -0.5 |
| US 8.5 | US 8 | offset -0.5 |
| US 9 | US 8.5 | offset -0.5 |
| US 9.5 | US 9 | offset -0.5 |
| US 10 | US 9.5 | offset -0.5 |
| US 10.5 | US 10 | offset -0.5 |
| US 11 | US 10.5 | offset -0.5 |
| US 12 | US 11.5 | offset -0.5 |
Check prices: Handball Spezial Gazelle (paid link)
Full Handball Spezial guide · Full Gazelle guide · Reverse compare · Open in converter