Summary

We spent 8.7 hours reading reviews from experts and users. In summary, this is what sneaker fanatics think:

7 reasons to buy

  • Several customers were satisfied with their purchase of the low-top Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD as they pointed out the quality of materials and construction of the low-top sneaker is visible at first glance.
  • Some reviewers were pleased with the vast selection of colorways to choose from for the iconic sneaker.
  • Many loyal fans of the Onitsuka Tiger sneakers were pleased with how lightweight and comfortable this improved version of the classic sneaker felt that they felt less fatigue while wearing them.
  • A few testers say the shoe fits perfectly with enough room for the feet to breath with the improved footbed conditions keeping every step as comfy as possible.
  • Numerous customers are pleased with their purchase of this classic footwear as they held well for a few months without showing signs of breaking apart.
  • Quite some users say the classic Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD is versatile regarding pairing with various casual clothes that some buyers use them almost every day.
  • The casual sneakers have a very comfortable interior that some are not bothered wearing these low-top kicks for several hours of walking.

4 reasons not to buy

  • Some users say that while there is a slight difference in comfort, the original version of the Mexico 66 felt comfortable that adding a few dollars for a superior deluxe version is not necessary.
  • A couple of wearers noted that the shoe made annoying squeaky sounds on the first few days of using that it took a while before they were able to break-in and lose the squeaky noises.
  • A few commenters were disappointed in the snug and often tight fit of the shoe that it needs a few days of break-in before the shoe molds to the shape of the feet.
  • One user got blisters after using the shoe because it was a tad tight to her original fit while another user says to have used thin no-show socks to prevent having blisters as the leather material rubs on the skin.

Bottom line

An iconic sneaker like the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 is further elevated with this edition released by the Japanese brand in honor of the brand’s founder. The Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 Superior Deluxe or SD was released for the 100th birth anniversary of Kihachiro Onitsuka.

While some people would probably not bother adding extra dollars for this special edition, fans of the classic agree that the Superior Deluxe version of the heritage sneaker is a welcome development in improving the in-shoe feel and comfort with its superbly cushioned interiors.

Facts

Rankings

A top 5% best sneaker
A popular pick

Expert Reviews

  • First look | Shop Zappos | | Level 1 expert

  • First look | Onitsuka Tiger

Become an expert

The snug-fitting Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD has maintained the quality regarding fit and sizing of the custom Japanese shoe brand. The shoe comes in medium width that is often cozy for those with regular foot width. The low-top sneaker kept secured by regular flat laces has a collar flap at the back for extra protection at the back heel. Shoe sizes start at size 5 to 14 for men with half sizes available for accurate fitting. Women may opt to go 1.5 sizes down to an equivalent size.

Vintage silhouettes like the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD are versatile footwear to choose from if the shoe owner loves to dress most of the time casually. The heritage design of the low-top running shoe turned lifestyle sneaker with its distinctive stripes on the side and full leather finish projects confidence with a sporty vibe that it goes well when worn with shorts, jeans, khakis, chinos, and other clothes in the spring or summer. The design also comes in a huge selection of colorways that blending them with the mood, tastes, and personal style of the wearer is more relaxed and hassle-free.

Extra comfort is the most promising new feature of the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD. The updated look in time for the 100th anniversary of Kihachiro Onitsuka comes with improved interiors and cushioning. The updates included a dual density fuzeGEL technology midsole and an Ortholite insole for added comfort and improved cushioning for the heritage sneaker design.

The Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD or the Superior Deluxe version of the shoe first came out in 2002 as a reissue in time for the 100th anniversary of founder Kihachiro Onitsuka. Onitsuka Tiger was founded in 1949 in Kobe, Japan as the Onitsuka Co. Ltd. In 1977, the company was later on merged with other partners and became Asics Corporation. While there was a name change, however, several iconic shoe designs like the Mexico 66 and Corsair are still produced and marketed using the original Onitsuka Tiger label.

The Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 is a re-issue of their most successful running sneaker to date that first became famous when it was launched in 1966 in time for Olympic Summer Games held in Mexico City. The shoe was a cult favorite among runners and was featured in films starring Bruce Lee and Uma Thurman.

  • Onitsuka Tiger branding detail at tongue and back flap.
Author
Danny McLoughlin
Danny McLoughlin

Danny is a sneakerhead turned sneaker industry expert that believes a good outfit begins from the feet up. His aunt currently isn't speaking to him for wearing a pair of kicks at his cousin's wedding. He spends most of his time trying to keep on top of the latest releases, hitting up his contacts and doing what needs to be done to secure his next pickup. Danny has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Washington Post, The Irish Times, Footwear News and the like.

daniel@runrepeat.com