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Classic sneakers have a nostalgic feel to them. One look and you’ll know that it’s from a specific brand. They basically cemented the brand’s identity even before they got neon upgrades and numbers on their names.
Just like designer bags, these sneakers continue to be relevant today. They’re also considered as collector’s items for avid sneakerheads. Some may also be hard to find now, but it’s worth it to hunt for these kicks.
We owned (or still own) a pair of these at some point in our lives. According to WKYC, these canvas sneakers were originally worn as basketball shoes in the 1920s. But when they became obsolete among athletes, it became a staple pair among musicians like Sid Vicious and Joan Jett. Now, they’re part of several people’s daily wear, especially concert and festival-goers. Available at Glorietta 1.
Named after tennis star Stan Smith, these sneakers are considered the first major celebrity endorsements in sports. The pair is made from leather, has a rubber sole and Adidas’ signature three-stripe design. Back in 2012, Adidas pulled the Stan Smiths out of their shelves due to poor sales. But they were brought back and had a resurgence in 2014 when celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres and Gisele Bundchen started wearing them. Alexander Wang even included them in his spring/summer 2015 show. Available at SM North EDSA.
According to Primer Magazine, the Puma Suede was made popular in the ’70s by basketball star Walter “Clyde” Frazier. It was also used as a warm-up shoe by women’s basketball players. The design of the shoes evolved over time, and soon became the shoe of choice of the hip-hop community in the ’80s and ’90s. You might want to get this after snatching Rihanna’s Fenty Puma collection. Available at Bonifacio High Street.
The Nike Cortez started out as shoes for distance running and jogging. It’s made with a “thick, long wearing outer sole” and “mid-sole cushion to absorb road shock.” That said, it was touted as the “most comfortable shoe ever” as it lessened leg fatigue among marathoners. If you’re an athlete or often walk long distances for errands, this pair is for you. Available at Power Plant Mall.
If you ask any of my friends about this pair, many will say it’s either for skaters or it looks “emo.” Made in 1977, these slip-ons became famous for their durable rubber soles which was ideal for skateboarding. Today, the checkerboard pattern can be a statement piece for any outfit. There are also several color combinations to choose from. Available at Greenbelt 3.
Keds has long been known for their comfortable canvas shoes, which were originally tagged as tennis shoes for women. The Champion Canvas sneakers are what kicked it off with its plain white design and rubber midsole. Even when Keds’ designs evolved to having more color and shimmer, this is still a covetable pair. Available at Glorietta 3.
Art by Lara Intong
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