The sneaker game changes drastically. After releasing a shoe, another pair is going to be released not long after. However, if you think that these shoes come from scratch, you are wrong. Not all sneakers start from zero, and that is what a retro sneaker is all about.

A retro release is usually made after the initial release of a shoe. Retro sneakers are those sneakers that are re-released in a different set of colorways or a different material or technology.

You may think that going back to the past is not good because it might blind you from the present and hinder you from doing better for the future. However, that is not always the case in the sneaker world. Putting a retro look with modern technology results to the best of both worlds as it shows that it recognizes the past while moving forward.

People’s favorite retro sneakers by its top

Remakes of a shoe became successful because of the Jordans, and up until now, brands have successfully re-released a number of shoes from the classics, including the Nike Air Force 1 and the venerable Stan Smith sneaker. Aside from these two coolest retro sneaker silhouettes, below is a list of the best retro sneakers categorized by their tops.

Low Top

Low top sneakers are most famous for providing more freedom of movement for the feet. However, in exchange for that unconstrained movement, low tops usually lack ankle support. These kinds of sneakers are also most famous for their versatile style.

Adidas Lacombe

This low-top men’s retro sneaker has a minimalistic and straightforward design, which makes it a versatile shoe that is easy to dress up and down. The Adidas Lacombe’s three stripes logo on the side is done in perforation, contributing extra ventilation for the feet.

Extra information:

• The silhouette of the Adidas Lacombe got its inspiration from the Newcombe shoe that was released in the 70s.
• This sneaker is an excellent alternative for the Adidas Gazelle and the Adidas Stan Smith.
• Aside from its overall design, the Lacombe’s breathable feature makes it among the shoes that are great for the summer season.

Nike Air Presto Fly

The Presto Fly has a sock-like feel that a lot of users expected since it is among the many features of the shoe that they enjoyed from its original. As for its physique, the shoe boasts a sporty design that accommodates the streetwear trend while allowing its wearers to enjoy modern technology. 

Extra information:

• The Nike Air Presto Fly is a remodel of the Air Presto that was released in the 2000s.
• Unlike the original, the Air Presto Fly is uncaged.

Mid Top

Shoes that are considered as mid-top are those with collars that extend up to the ankle to provide more support. These types of sneakers also have a better hold on the feet compared to those with a low top. In terms of usage and popularity, mid-tops are found between low tops and high tops.

Reebok Mobius OG MU

The Reebok Mobius OG MU is a basketball-inspired shoe that stands out from the crowd. Aside from its bold design, it is released in bright and contrasting colors. Its overall design screams a retro basketball theme.

Extra information:

• The pair belongs to the Mobius series that was introduced in the 90s.
• The Mobius OG MU by Reebok, which was released in August 2018, is an unreleased silhouette from the 90s.

Vans SK8-Mid Reissue

The Vans Sk8-Mid Reissue’s retro silhouette is impressively versatile, making it a daily footwear essential. This badass mid-top sneaker beautifully blends well with any lifestyle outfit. As a result, it is well-used for lifestyle and casual activities.

Extra information:

• The pair’s silhouette came from Style 38 that was released in 1978.  
• The Style 38 is now known as the Vans SK8-Hi.

High Top

For maximum hold and support, high top shoes are created. These sneakers are those with collars that go beyond the ankle. Sneakers with high tops are usually inspired by a basketball shoe and have easily transitioned to becoming a lifestyle sneaker.

Nike Air Foamposite One

The Nike Air Foamposite One is released in several vibrant colorways that make the shoe stand out well. Do not worry about its unique tones because, despite that, this retro sneaker is still easy to wear as it pairs well with almost any casual attire.

Extra information:

• The futuristic-looking Air Foamposite One was first seen in the market in 1997.
• The original color pattern of the shoe was a dark neon royal blue.
• The idea of this Nike sneaker’s silhouette came from a molded sunglass case made of EVA foam.
• A beetle’s exoskeleton inspired the overall demeanor of the shoe.

Jordan Spizike

The Jordan Spizike was delicately crafted, resulting in a sneaker with colors that complement each other well. It is a basketball-inspired sneaker that has successfully blended into the lifestyle culture. However, pulling off this shoe is a little bit challenging due to its complicated design. But once the look is pulled off, you will undoubtedly be the center of attraction.

Extra information:

• Jordan Spizike’s inspiration came from a number of iconic Jordan models.
• It got its elephant print design accent from the Air Jordan III.
• The Air Jordan IV inspires the side wings on the Spizike.
• The tongue and lace locks on this sneaker are borrowed from Jordan VI.
• The heel tab found on this pair came from the AJ IX.
• The idea gotten from the Jordan XX is the sock liner print and laser-engraved detailing.
• The main silhouette of the Jordan Spizike is from the Jordan V.
• The brand released the Spizike as a tribute to the relationship of Michael Jordan and Spike Lee, a film director, and actor, in October 2006.

Frequently asked questions

Where to buy retro sneakers?

Retro sneakers are widely distributed around the world. You can find them on any brands’ physical and online store and even on other local footwear stores. RunRepeat has quick links for convenience to these sites. 

How to style retro shoes?

Retro style sneakers are pretty versatile, but not all are. While very little re-released sneakers are hard to pull off due to its complicated design and unique colorways, most of the sneakers that fall under this category are well-loved by many since they have a straightforward layout that goes well with many wardrobes.

Usually, retros that are in colors black and white and have a simple looking silhouette can be dressed up. These kinds of sneakers are worn with khakis, chinos, pants, and a button-down shirt. Women’s retro sneakers can be matched with a dress.

For lifestyle wear, it can accommodate almost anything from shorts to pants to skirts paired with a long or short-sleeved shirt. To spice the ensemble up, one can opt to wear a denim jacket or a blazer.

What are retros sneakers made of?

A retro released sneaker is made up of fresh ideas to keep up with the demand of the modern age. These new ideas are then thrown and implemented on shoes that are found from the archives of each brand. Older designs are pulled out first from the archives, and the designers use these as an inspiration to make their imaginations run wild.

As for the materials, retro sneakers are made up of the same materials as any other shoes. New technologies are also applied to them.

What is the difference between an OG and a retro?

The best sneakers are usually timeworn. However, to keep it alive, from time to time, there must be some adjustments made to meet the demands of the modern age. Retro sneakers have withstood the test of time. 

These kinds of sneakers are re-released to cash on the original silhouettes’ popularity since retros come from shoes that have been made available to the market earlier and are releasing them by making minor changes. These slight tweaks include changing the colorways, the material used, or adding a technology that the brand recently discovered.

On the other hand, OG stands for “original”. OG can refer to the original colorway of the sneaker when it was first released. It can also refer to the first release of a sneaker.

What are the best chunky ugly 2020 retro sneakers?

Most brands take advantage of their classic releases that are well-liked by many wearers and re-release them with minor alterations. Here are some of the best chunky retro sneakers.

1. Adidas Originals Stan Smiths Leather Sneakers. Go for its straightforward design that complements most ensembles. Pass on it because it is fairly common on the streets.
2. Nike Air Max 1 Premium Suede Sneakers. Go for its suede material that makes the sneaker look luxurious. Avoid it because it is harder to clean than a leather sneaker.
3. Converse Chuck 70 Ox Suede Sneakers. Love it for its timeless design. No to its high price.
4. Vans Old Skool Brown Suede Trainers. Commend it for its waffle soles that many skaters could utilize. Avoid buying this if it is used for only walking since there are more comfortable sneakers than this.

Are retro sneakers suitable for everyday use?

Retro sneakers are comfortable enough to be used daily. Moreover, if not all, most of the re-released sneakers are more of a lifestyle than a performance sneaker. These kinds of sneakers are also really flexible, thus being able to cater to a wide range of wardrobe styles that you use on your casual days.