Trends within the world of sneakers swing in a pendulum-like motion. Every few years, we get sick of one thing and turn to the other thing. Right now, that pendulum is well within the realms of retro sneakers. After a long obsession with tech-heavy runners, most of us have decided it's time to give gum soles and classic uppers another go.
Swapping technical knitted uppers in bold highlighter colors for understated leather has meant that our kicks are a lot more versatile. What’s more, our retro sneakers now stand in line with the ever-growing obsession over preppy style in the streetwear and luxury clothing spaces.
But while you can opt for the classic names like everyone else, you risk falling into the safe trap of monotony. We recommend looking further afield to an independent name like Axel Arigato, who is making retro sneakers to rival the best. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the brand’s best retro styles, including the latest silhouette to drop: the Axel Arigato Area Sneakers.
Shop a range of our favorite retro sneakers from Axel Arigato below.
Area
The latest silhouette to drop in the Axel Arigato collection is a retro highlight. The Area Sneakers come in a low-top form inspired by vintage basketball sneakers. Featuring design aspects like a perforated toe box and a reinforced, paneled upper, the only signs that this is a new take on the silhouette are the custom-crafted sole unit and premium LWG-certified leather uppers.
Dice
The Axel Arigato Dice Sneakers can definitely be seen as a precursor to the new Area silhouette. Also taking inspiration from retro on-court designs, the Dice is available in a versatile low-top as well as a high-top version for an extra helping of retro style.
Marathon
There's no denying the power of the retro running silhouette in 2022. This category has started to dominate the headlines and top best-seller lists. Finding its roots in the '80s and '90s, the style looks to old-time, chunky running silhouettes for an understated finishing touch to outfits. Axel Arigato's Marathon Sneakers have been on our radar for a while now, thanks in particular to the amazing colors available. We're especially taken by the Dip-Dye options.
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