We all know that style moves like a pendulum. When things get too futuristic, you can be sure that a return to retro style is on its way. Likewise, when we’ve all seen too much of the past, there’s a futuristic revamp on the horizon. That applies to the world of sneakers, too. After much deliberation around technical runners in recent seasons, we’re in the midst of a vintage revival now revolving around '70s sneakers.
In keeping with what we're seeing in fashion, the world of sneakers is heading back in time to the era of flared trousers leading to lightweight, no-fuss runners. This journey back to '70s sneakers comes in both the sense of silhouettes and aesthetics — a yellowed sole unit, washed-out color palettes — to round out the effect.
So, from sneakers that actually originate in the era to modern adaptations and homages to the time, here are 9 of the best '70s sneakers that we found at Stadium Goods.
Shop our favorite '70s sneakers below.
Nike Blazer Mid 77 Vintage
Originating on the hardwood, the Nike Blazer was a go-to for NBA players in the '70s. Since then, it's been overtaken by tech-forward silhouettes on the court, but it's still one of the first choices when it comes to lifestyle basketball kicks.
adidas Campus 80
Okay, cheating a little here as the adidas Campus actually hit shelves in 1980 but it still abides by many of the hallmarks of '70s sneakers. It's lightweight and minimal in its detailing. This update from Bookworks adds a color-blocked aspect to the upper.
New Balance XC72
New Balance is known for having one of the most iconic retro collections in the footwear game. But alongside the icons is a range of new-age silhouettes that look to the same values. The New Balance XC72 is a recent phenomenon but the simple uppers feel like they've been transplanted from a '70s runner.
Nike Daybreak Type
Nike's retro runners are second to none. Still today, silhouettes like the Nike Daybreak which originally landed in 1979 are being treated to contemporary updates like this Pagoda iteration which features sustainable fixtures like the cork heel wrap.
Converse Chuck 70 Hi
Do sneakers come more timeless than the Converse Chuck Taylor? This eye-catching collaboration with Tyler, the Creator's Golf Le Fleur imprint brings a flash of personality to the understated design.
Nike x Undercover x Sacai LDWaffle
Another of Nike’s top '70s silhouettes got a futuristic reup recently. Sacai teamed up with Undercover to breathe new life into the Waffle Racer with a typically mind-boggling design. The seeing-double effect put the lightweight sneaker back in the spotlight when it released in Spring 2019.
adidas x Wales Bonner SL72
Slim, unimposing, and carrying one of the best colorway we've seen in recent years, the adidas x Wales Bonner SL72 is everything that we want from a pair of '70s-style sneakers.
Converse Chuck 70 Low
While the Golf Le Fleur iteration listed earlier offers a bold take on the silhouette, chopping the top off and keeping things all-white is an easy way to bring the shoe to its versatile base.
Nike Waffle Trainer 2
If you’re into the lightweight nylon uppers but aren’t looking for a double-stacked sole and Swoosh, bypass the Sacai collab for the original Nike Waffle Trainer. We’re loving touches like the unfinished foam tongue and retro Swoosh tongue label to give this pair authentic '70s style.
Want to keep browsing? Head to the Highsnobiety Shop for more products that we love. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.
