Our verdict
The Corsair EX is a reworked model of one of the most iconic Onitsuka Tiger footwear. It remains faithful to its classic appeal that wearers find fashionable. It also offers an innovative shock-absorbing cushioning with its updated sole unit. The few complaints that some owners might have about this footwear failed to overshadow the comfort, sturdiness, and aesthetics it delivers.
Pros
- Comfortable sole unit
- Durable
- Made with premium materials
- Stylish appeal
- Fashionable colorways
- Lightweight
- Reliable traction
Cons
- Requires a long break-in time
- Tight-fitting
Who should buy the Onitsuka Tiger Corsair EX
The Onitsuka Tiger Corsair EX is a solid choice if:
- You are looking for a shoe with a timeless design but with modern comfort.
- You are after a walking companion with an outstanding outsole grip.
- You love wearing footwear of the same model but in different colorways to match various outfits.
Fit and sizing
The low-top Onitsuka Tiger Corsair EX is a unisex pair available in the men's range. It has the traditional lacing system with flat cotton laces that can be easily adjusted to fit the wearers.
Enhancing the cushioning is the FUZEGEL technology on its midsole added with an Ortholite sockliner that also improves comfort and shock absorption.
Style of the Onitsuka Tiger Corsair EX
The Corsair EX from the Onitsuka Tiger displays the classic look of its predecessor that has been tweaked with a better and more fashionable midsole. The upper is made of smooth leather, mesh, or suede with Tiger Stripe branding, adding style and durability.
This model is available in several hues. The most popular colorways are the Tiger yellow/black, peacoat/habanero, peacoat/white, classic red/white, and white/classic red. On feet, the Onitsuka Tiger Corsair EX for men and women looks stylish when paired with jogger pants and a bomber jacket.
A pair of light-colored shorts and a plain white t-shirt give a clean boy-next-door look. Also, some men style this low-top kick with a trenchcoat and black chinos. This dress-down ensemble suits modern style-conscious men who want to look effortlessly fashionable.
For the ladies, this sneaker looks fashionable with a cardigan and a pair of dark-colored skinnies. For a laidback-chic combo, ladies pair this sneaker with their floral shirtdress and a beige cardigan. Some women who are off-duty pair this sneaker up with black leggings and a loose white t-shirt.
Notable features
The Onitsuka Tiger Corsair EX shoes flaunt a notable timeless design that many reviewers have loved. It carries the iconic Corsair upper with a thicker and better midsole that enhances the comfort and shock-absorbing capacity.
History of the Onitsuka Tiger Corsair EX
Corsair, originally dubbed as Cortez, is considered one of the most enduring designs of the Onitsuka Tiger of Japan. This iconic model started a new criterion when it comes to designing running silhouettes. The Corsair was introduced in the United States in 1969 under the Blue Ribbon Sports label, which was later renamed Nike, headed by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman.
When Bowerman attempted to recreate the Cortez by replacing the signature Tiger Stripes of Onitsuka with Nike Swoosh, it came as a surprise to the Japanese brand. This move caused massive tension between the two labels, which resulted in putting an end to Blue Ribbon's Onitsuka Tiger sneakers distribution rights in the US. The friction reached the US courts that later released the rule that both brands can still sell the Cortez silhouette. While Nike opted to rename the profile as Cortez, Onitsuka Tiger decided to tag it as Corsair.
Because of its popularity, Onitsuka Tiger has been unstoppable in evolving its famous silhouette. One of them is the Corsair EX, the 2020 version of the Corsair. This iteration kept the details of its predecessor added with improved cushioning found on the midsole. It features the FUZEGEL technology injected into the midsole and outsole. This tech absorbs shock and improves durability.
Nice to know about the Onitsuka Tiger Corsair EX
- The rubber outsole of Onitsuka Tiger Corsair EX provides traction.
- FUSEGEL technology is the newest tech from the brand, which is made by combining GEL technology and foam. This innovation provides a lightweight, adaptable comfort that yields an effective shock absorption mechanism.
