Here’s a vintage 1980s catalog for REI featuring some great 1980s sneakers. The shoes featured in this catalog are the Nike Pegasus Running Shoes, Nike New Internationalists, Nike Intrepid, REI Junior Winds, REI Equalizers, Adidas Oregon Trainers, Adidas Seattle, Adidas Tennis Champ, Reebok T.D., Reebok Victory G, Reebok Hurricane, New Balance 460 & W460, and Reebok Aerobic Energizers.
JUNE 2023 UPDATE: We will be posting this pair of Kinney NBA sneakers and many other pairs of sneakers from the blog will be going up for auction on our eBay shop in the next week or two. Opening bid is .99 cents with no reserve and worldwide shipping. If you’re interested we will post on our Instagram once the auctions are up.
Here’s a cool old school poster from Kinney NBA. The Kinney Shoes NBA 1970s Upside Down Swoosh vintage sneaker poster is an iconic piece that captures the essence of sports culture in the 70s. The poster showcases several pairs of Kinney Shoes with a unique upside-down swoosh and 4 stripe logos alongside the official NBA logo. The sneakers themselves are a classic representation of the era, with bold colors and designs. Kinney considered themselves to be “The Great American Shoe Store” and was massive at the time but eventually faded and later went on to found Foot Locker. The poster artwork was made by Ray Caram of Milano Studios in Long Island, NY. If you’re interested in more Kinney history check out this vintage commercial here.
Here’s a 1983 vintage Consumer Reports “Penny Power” magazine featuring articles on sneaker testing kids retro runners. This article compares Nike, adidas, Sears and Kinney NBA vintage sneakers.
Article info is below:
APRIL / MAY 1983 A Consumer Reports Publication for young People
PENNY POWER
TESTING SNEAKERS
Part Three: THE TESTS
In order to pick which brands to test, Penny Power used two kinds of "experts." First, an experienced runner looked at many pairs of running shoes sold in children's sizes, and told us which ones were sturdy and well made. Second, junior-high students weeded out the "dorky-looking" pairs from a group of good quality sneakers. They liked the four models you see in the "before" picture below. These ranged in price from $14 to $25.
Before
NIKE ($25)
KINNEY'S NBA ($20)
ADIDAS ($20)
SEARS ($14)
We decided to put these sneakers through the toughest test of all—a "kid" test. The 8-to-13-year-olds you see on these pages were each fitted with two different brands. All wore both pairs through an entire summer and into the fall. One pair was worn one day, the other pair the next day, so that each pair received the same amount of wear— at camp, on the beach and in the country. Running, jumping and skidding would show up differences among the sneakers, we thought. We were wrong! When we gathered in the 20 pairs of sneakers at the end of the test, a few were slightly shabbier or a bit more worn. But, as the "after" picture shows, most came through the test in about the same condition. One reason they were still in good shape was that the testers were switching between two different pairs. Changing your sneakers every day gives them a chance to dry out between wearings, and that's good for all shoes. It's also better for your feet. The testers were asked to choose the more comfortable of the two pairs they had worn. No one brand proved to be more comfortable than the others. Some testers liked one feature (such as the Sears's thinner sole or the NBA's cushioning), some another. We then washed a few pairs of each brand to see how well they would clean up. Again, all four brands washed pretty much the same. Only the light-colored sneakers were hard to get clean. The dark suede trim faded in the wash, however. (Turn to the back cover to see the results of our sneaker spruce-up.)
After
NIKE
ADIDAS
SEARS
KINNEY'S NBA
What did The Sneaker Project teach us? Since no brand stood out in durability or over-all comfort, you should look for a well-made model that fits your particular pair of feet. While you're looking, don't ignore some of the well-made but less-famous brands. Some of our testers were firm Nike or Adidas fans until they discovered the fit and comfort of a less-expensive brand. They were surprised. Maybe you will be too!
Here’s an old school ‘Sneakers Preview’ feature from the rock n’roll magazine Circus. The article features vintage 1970s sneakers and running shoes form Nike, adidas, New Balance, Keds and PONY.
Article info is below:
SNEAKS PREVIEW
How To Choose The Sneaker That’s Right For You
By Tad Wise
No matter what you do, or where you do it, these days there's a special sneaker to do it in. There are sneakers for every sport from ping-pong to parachuting; the Adidas com-pany alone manufactures over 200 types, which vary in weight, support, durability, flexibility, and tread . . . in addition to price. That's a lot of variables, and they can make sneaker shopping a con-fusing task. So here we present the basics in sneaker selection: how to choose the sneak that's best for your body, your sport, and your bank account.
GENERAL INFORMATION
First thing you should understand is that "sneakers" is an outdated term; today, these pieces of footwear are called "specialized athletic shoes." You can pay as much as $50 for a pair of running shoes, or get an old reliable sneaker somewhere around $15. It all depends on your needs. The old sneaker consisted mainly of canvas cloth mount-ed on rubber soles, with a pad of foam rubber laid inside. These sneaks wore out quickly. The modern sneaker, on the other hand, has an upper half made out of nylon and leather—both of which are more expensive and durable than canvas. Leather is used because it's tough; it supports and protects feet better, at the same time lasting longer. Nylon is the lightest material in sneaker construction, allow-ing the foot to "breathe," keeping it cooler, less sweaty, and less prone to blistering. It won't rot (like canvas), but it will wear and tear if misused. Modern sneakers vary in the amount of material used (thickness as well as surface space). For those who need protection and support over speed, an all-leather sneaker is in order. Most popular sneakers compromise, with leather at heel and toe sewed onto a nylon core. And to answer the ques-tion "How long do these new fandangled things last?", there's good news: shoe repair shops are beginning to retread sneakers. If you've bought a good pair, they'll be worth retreading. One important note for teenagers: it doesn't make sense for someone who's still growing to buy an expensive sneaker that will last twice as long as he or she can use it. Remember, you're growing fast, so don't just go for snob appeal or snazzy sneaks that cost a bundle. You'll be out of them in no time, and poorer for it. If you're tough on your sneaks, buy one of the rugged originals: a P.F. Flyer or a Keds—they're cheaper, and for this kind of treatment, better than hot stuff shoes. Unless, of course, you opt for expensive leather for pro-tection. On the other hand, if someone is a highly competitive athlete in a reasonably rough sport, the difference be-tween a mediocre and a great sneaker may mean the dif-ference between excellent performance and injury. If you're investing a lot of time and energy in the sport, money for proper equipment is an investment. But don't buy a sneaker for its looks or its name. One salesman put it this way: "There are more kids buying Pumas or Adidas to impress one another than there are athletes. 'Athletes buy the newer designs, and get more for their money." Where to Buy: In the big cities, buy your sneaks in big retail outlets. They may be able to slash $5-6 dollars from the list prices (especially with the newer, expensive makes). Adidas is the exception to this; wherever you buy them, their price is pretty consistent. Whatever you do, don't buy through the mails: sizes vary, and even though the sneakers are returnable, it's a drag when they don't fit. (Continued on following page)
Key To The Sneaker Scene
The following is a key a the sneaker photo on the opposite page. The prices listed are the manufacturers' suggested retail prices.
Nike LD 1000 ($39.99)
Tretorn Leather Tennis ($32.99)
Converse Jack Purcell ($14.99)
New Balance 320 Running Shoe ($27.99)
Adidas SL 72 ($30.99)
Pro-Keds Canvas Basketball ($13.99)
Adidas Country ($27.99)
Pony Hi-Leather Basketball ($29.99)
Illustration by Kitty Wise
Shoes courtesy of “The Athletes Foot,” 34 E. 8th Street, New York, N.Y.
Fit: Leave some room. The tendency, after getting accustomed to tight winter shoes and boots, is to buy a sneaker that Its snug. Don't make this mistake. Buy a little large, and don't walk out with anything that's the tiniest hit uncomfortable—once at play, it's gonna hurt. Remember that due to increased blood circulation, feet such during exercise. When trying on the sneaks, wear the type of socks you play in. If, despite your growing feet, the expensive model is too beautiful or comfortable to resist, buy a larger size, wear two pairs of socks, and cut down to one as you grow into the sneaker.
Price: There are three clusters of price at a decently sized store. For the growing teenager, the sneaker shouldn't run more than $16. For the full-grown amateur athlete, a sneaker should run around $20. Pro models will run anywhere between $25 and $40.
Guarantee: Make sure the store will replace defective shoes Even the best snakes put out a lemon now and then. Needless to say, keep the receipt.
Sneaker Care: Use suede cleaner on leather. For nylon and canvas, soap and water do the job just fine. (P.S.— Just washing your sneakers won't prolong their life, but it will keep them smelling and looking better—and that's more important to others than you might suspect.)
SPORT LOWDOWN
Basketball: There are two extremely important things to consider when buying basketball shoes: material and height. Canvas or leather? This one is a toss-up. Canvas is much cheaper, but leather provides much better support. You'll find pro ballplayers wearing both. If you're serious about the game, leather is probably your best bet, though. High or low? About this, there's no question. In a fast-moving sport like basketball, you need support—so go for the high shoe. In all cases, make sure there's a substantial arch to — keep cramps (from jumps and landings) at a minimum. Look for a criss-cross tread for the best grip on hardwood floors. Converse All-Stars and Pro-Keels are the high-school player's all-round sneaker, and they run around $14. Nike and Pony are fast becoming favorites with their lose-price quality line, which include high-leather sneakers at around $30. Adidas leather high-tops go for $35.
Running: The sensitive spot on a runner's foot is his heel. City runners in particular need a lot of cushion here. Make sure there's a good 'fix inch of crushable sponge sandwiched between the heel tread and the plastic plate immediately under the upper shoe. Cross-country runners will want better grip for wet grass and mud; their treads should look like a series of W's, i.e., wwwwwwwwwww. The front ones should tilt back to grab when running up hills, the rear ones should tilt forward to prevent slip-ping when coming downhill. Wide shoes (Both Brooks and Puma put out a special, wider line) are more stable, but they're also bulkier. Runner's World Magazine rates all serious running shoes every year. This year, New Balance's model 320 was voted number one, and Brooks' Villa Nova number 2. New Balance goes around $28, Brooks around $20.
Tennis: Tennis shoes have to be equipped for the twists, turns and changes in direction that accompany the game, and they have to do all that without tearing up the court too much. The thin zig-zag tread is a good, all-around bottom. Get flat treads, though, if you'll be playing ex-clusively on clay courts. For concrete and asphalt, stay away from nylon shoes (they'll evaporate) and opt for more rugged shoes—leather—or cheaper canvas, which will be cooler. Converse and Adidas both offer functional canvas sneakers around $14. From there, a different kind of sneaker will appear just about every two dollars, 'til Tretorn tops out with an immensely comfortable leather shoe at $33.
Here’s a very 80s style ad from Jordache for their limited edition running shoes.
Ad info is below:
Another Jordache Breakthrough!
Now you can have it all…
fit, function and style.
The Jordache Limited Edition running shoe is leaving the competition behind. Now, you don't have to sacrifice a great fashion look for comfort or endurance. The Jordache LTD lets you have it all. Make a break-through of your own with the Limited Edition Running Shoe from Jordache.
JORDACHE ATHLETIC WEAR LTD.
Look 'for the Jordache LTD Running Shoe in fine stores.
Here’s a pair of old school 1980s vintage sneakers by Thom McAn’s Jox brand.
Ad info is below:
RUN INTO THOM MCAN.
RUN OUT WITH A FREE GIFT.*
Thom McAn
JOX
GENUINE VIBRAM SOLE
Get a free cool can caddie just for taking a test run in our newest Jox® with genuine Vibram® soles. Buy a pair and get a sensational 30"×25" poster, free.
Just try on our newest Jox with Vibram soles and we'll give you a free, cool can caddie. And when you buy a pair, we'll even give you an exciting poster, free. Run into Thom McAn for a test run and run out with a free gift.
Thom McAn
*While supplies last. Limit one per customer.
TEST RUN FALL1982
GENUINE VIBRAM SOLE
Here’s another vintage insert from Runner's World Magazines with the first set of their 'Outstanding Shoes of 1979' and featuring various awesome vintage running shoes of the 1970s from EB Brutting, Etonic, New Balance, Nike, Osaga, Saucony, (Asics) Tiger, and Tred 2. The original authentic print version of this insert is available over at our RewindRunning.com shop. You can check out page 1 featuring vintage running shoes of the 1970s by adidas, Braun Bilt, Brooks, Converse, Diadora and EB Brutting here.
Page info is below:
TOP SHOES AT A GLANCE
Runner's World Magazines Outstanding Shoes of 1979
EB Brutting Sao Paulo
RW-5 Star (Men's Racing) RW-4
Etonic KM 501
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
Etonic Lady Street Fighter
RW-4 Star (Women's Training)
Etonic Street Fighter
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
New Balance Cross-Country
RW-4 Star (Men's Racing)
New Balance 320
RW-5 Star (Men's Training)
New Balance Trail
RW-5 Star (Men's Training) RW-5
New Balance Women 320
RW-5 Star (Women's Training)
Nike Elite
RW-5 Star (Men's Racing)
Nike Lady Waffle Trainer
RW-4 Star (Women's Training)
Nike LD-V
RW-5 Star (Men's Training)
Nike Roadrunner I
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
Nike Senorita Cortez I
RW-4 Star (Women's Training)
Nike Sting
RW-4 Star (Men's Racing)
Nike Waffle Racer
RW-5 Star (Men's Racing)
Osaga Caliente
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
Osaga Feather
RW-4 Star (Women's Training)
Saucony Dove II
RW-4 Star (Women's Training)
Saucony Hornet
RW-5 Star (Men's Training)
Saucony Ms Gripper
RW-4 Star (Women's Training)
Saucony Trainer 1980
RW-5 Star (Men's Training)
Tiger Enduro
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
Tiger Tigress
RW-5 Star (Women's Training)
Tred 2 Lady Zephyr
RW-4 Star (Women's Training)
Here’s an old vintage insert from Runner's World Magazines with the first set of their 'Outstanding Shoes of 1979' and featuring various vintage running shoes of the 1970s from adidas, Braun Bilt, Brooks, Converse, Diadora and EB Brutting. The original authentic print version of this insert is available over at our RewindRunning.com shop.
Page info is below:
TOP SHOES AT A GLANCE
Runner's World Magazines Outstanding Shoes of 1979
Adidas Dragon
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
Adidas Lady Orion
RW-4 Star (Women's Training)
Adidas Lady TRX Comp
RW-5 Star (Women's Racing)
Adidas Orion
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
Adidas Runner
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
Adidas TRX Comp
RW-5 Star (Men's Racing)
Braunbilt Exxit
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
Brooks Delta
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
Brooks Lady Vantage
RW-5 Star (Women's Training) R
Brooks Lady Vantage Sup
RW-5 Star (Women's Training)
Brooks Vantage
RW-5 Star (Men's Training)
Brooks Vantage Sup
W-5 Star (Men's Training)
Converse Arizona
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
Converse Invitational
RW-5 Star (Men's Racing)
Converse Women WCTrainer II
RW-4 Star (Women's Training)
Converse WC Marathoner
RW-4 Star (Men's Racing)
Converse Trainer II
RW-5 Star (Men's Training)
Diadora Rally
RW-4 Star (Men's Training)
EB Brutting Marathon
RW-4 Star (Men's Racing)
EB Brutting Race Walker
RW-4 Star (Men's Racing)
Here’s another magazine article cover featuring a bunch of old school 1980’s running shoes including the Nike Daybreak, Brooks Super Villanova, adidas Marathon 80, Converse Arizona and more.
Info is below:
Firm footing:
Take your pick
Back row, left to right: Sport International 1818 Boston (men's training), Adidas Marathon 80 7093 (women's racing), Converse Arizona Trainer 17854 (men's training), Tiger Montreal (men's training), New Balance 620 (men's training), Etonic Street Fighter 705 (women's racing). Front row, left to right: Brooks Super Villanova (men's training), Nike Daybreak 2309 (men's training), AMBI Trailblazer (men's training), Saucony Ms. Hornet 8851 (women's training), Puma Angel II 90930H (women's training), Pony Lady Express VSD (women's training), Spalding Top Flite XL/31601 (women's training).
This one is for the ladies. Here’s the cover for the Runner’s World 1977 women’s sneaker, flats and spikes rankings. The article features the Nike LD-1000, adidas Quicksilver, Etonic KM and some other old school runners.
Here’s the inside cover for the Runner’s World 1977 Top 15 Racing Flats section featuring the vintage Nike Elite runners.
Here's a cool old piece of Nike history with this ad from 1975 for the rare and awesome Nike Roadrunner shoes. Check out the old school Blue Ribbon Sports logo on the lower left hand side.
Ad info is below:
THIS SHOE IS NOT FOR EVERYBODY
NIKE ROADRUNNER
(IT'S ONLY FOR THOSE WHO WANT THE BEST)
A NEW VERSION OF AN OLD FAVORITE. THE NEW NIKE ROADRUNNER IS A REAL EYE-OPENER. IT COMES IN LIME GREEN NYLON UPPERS, MOD BLUE SWOOSH STRIPE AND HEEL TAB, AND MARIGOLD YELLOW ACCENT. IT FEATURES AN EXTENDED HEEL COUNTER AND REINFORCED TOE FOR STABILITY AND DURABILITY. THE SPENCO INNERSOLE, ARCH SUPPORT, AND CUSHIONED MIDSOLE PROVIDE MILES OF COMFORT. AND THE LONG LASTING CREPE SOLE INSURES MILES OF WEAR. NOT ONLY DOES THIS SHOE HAVE EYE -OPENING COLORS, BUT IT ALSO HAS AN EYE OPENING PRICE., $19.95
ASK YOUR LOCAL NIKE DEALER FOR THE NIKE ROADRUNNER or for information write
BRS
6175 S.W.112 Beaverton, Oregon 97005
4 Jeffrey Ave Holliston, Mass. 01746
Today we've got an old school vintage ad for the Saucony Gripper sneakers from around 1977-78. 👟🔥
Today we've got a 1980 vintage sneaker ad for AAU featuring their upside down swoosh and stripe logo. If you want to see an actual pair of these we posted a different pair of AAU sneakers that resemble the vintage Nike LD-1000 here.
Ad info is below:
AAU SHOES
The Runaway Bestseller!
AAU Shoes speak volumes for themselves. They were designed to give you the ultimate in fit, comfort, style and durability. Feature for feature, you won't find a better value for the price. Long after the race is won and the miles are behind you, AAU Shoes will still be in good shape to go again.
AAU
USA
The Footwear of Champions
A shoe whose time has come.
1978... the year you took psychedelic magic mushrooms and watched your granny run a marathon at midnight. 🍄🤣 This advertisement is for Medalist brand track suits and running shoes of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. One thing about mining through these old school magazines and catalogs is you see advertising trends that appear over and over again. Back in the late 70s and early 80s everyone was using this running "speed trails" photography effect to illustrate blazing fast quickness. Other than that apparently Elvis Presley wore Medalist brand.
Ad info is below:
RUN FOR LIFE
Medalist Pride's new line of running and warm-up outfits .. . keep you looking great!
Running . . . jogging . . .keeping fit. Its a good idea that's becoming a very healthy pastime. From the serious runner to the entire family, people are keeping fit mile after mile.. and they're enjoying it! Now, Pride introduces their Run for Life line of running and worm-up outfits. Attractive color combinations. Bold stripe patterns. Comfortable running outfits designed for people on the go. Whether you're training for a marathon ... or simply staying in shape, you'll look fit wearing Pride. And, Pride Run for Life outfits are invadable in adult and youth sizes and styles. The entire family can stay in shape! Plus, to keep your running on truck, Pride includes a FREE running chart with every Run for Life outfit sold. Check out Pride's Run for Life lineup at your Medalist Pride dealer today. For the mune of your nearest dealer, call TOLL FREE: 800-558-9776. Keeping fit. It never looked so good.
Medalist Industries, 1978
RUN FOR LIFE
Medalist Pride
19 East McWilliams Street
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin 54935
TOLL FREE: 800 558 9776
Here's another old school 1979 vintage sneaker ad for Kmart Trax kicks. Seems like they were trying out every side profile logo swoosh that they had in this ad. If you want to check out more info on Trax we posted a few other vintage ads here, here and here and some Trax Nike Bruin knockoffs here.
Ad info is below:
Trax
...We're building a great name.
Very Basic ...Very Competitive Footwear.
Nobody ever won anything because of the labels on his shoes. Winning takes basics .. . basics like practice, sweat, effort, desire . . . in short, the fundamentals. That's why Trax are your best bet when it comes to athletic shoes. They're engineered with built-up toes and heels, padded collars, cushioned in-soles . . . all in all, they offer the support, comfort and durability you get with the expensive shoes . . . but Trax give you these basic features for $10.97- $16.97. Check out the variety of Trax for the entire family at over 1,450 K mart stores across the U.S.A. Not all styles and colors available at all stores. Whatever your age . . . whatever your game ... Trax are priced to beat the competition.
$10.97 to $16.97
👟 👟 👟 👟 👟 👟
SOLD EXCLUSIVELY AT...
Kmart
The Saving Place
Here's a old vintage ad for the Adidas SL72 and SL76 engineered with 'traction dynamics’…
Ad info is below:
SL 72 &76 reborn for the ultimate in cushioned traction
More propulsion. Extended sole area gradually stores up touch-down energy. At lift-off, this energy is released producing 20% more propulsion per step.
Thicker. softer-grooved wedge for substantially increased overall cushioning
More stability & cushioning Wider, flared heel for greater stability.
More Traction. Special profile ejects grit and mud. Profile layout allow, more flexing and therefore better traction. New heel profile for more cushioned heel strike
👟👟
Trust adidas to take these great (often imitated) training shoes, build in revolutionary cushioning and traction features, and end up with a saving in weight too. It's all part of a breakthrough in Traction Dynamics at adidas— real pioneer work that has created new standards in performance and comfort.
SL 72 & 76 are creations of Adi Dassler, the man behind the adidas name.
The all-sports people
This post is technically not a sneaker ad but is a scan of the 1979 Wilson by Bata sneaker catalog. These sneakers are called the 'Mesa' running shoes. These have a cool style with the unique front toe cap on them. For more information on the old Wilson by Bata shoes you can see their Force Five vintage sneakers here, and an old ad for the Force Five here.
Here's a 1981 Adidas vintage ad for their Boston model running shoes. I think this is one of the models that Kmart Trax spent a decade trying to knock off.
Ad info is below:
Great for the road. Even better for your wallet.
Durable rubber outersole with diamond profile for excellent traction. Extra-comfortable pre-formed inlay sole with soft terry lining.
Boston is the name of the new training shoe from adidas, one of the most comfortable we've ever designed — and at a very comfortable price. The Boston has been created with a newly-developed terry-covered inlay sole, tricot lining at the heel, extensive padding and a supersoft and flexible heel wedge to ensure excellent shock-absorption and comfort. So save yourself some money but don't make your feet pay the price — with the adidas Boston.
adidas
We've got a feeling for winning.
Sears sneaks for the family. This is from way back in 1978 when Sears almost had Diadora swoosh vibes along with their adidas-y 3 and 4 stripers.
Page info is below:
for the family
The winner II . . . imported sports shoe
Nylon and sueded split-leather upper
Two pages of Athletic-style Casuals ... most styles in sizes for Men, Women, Big Boys, Children
Smooth leather and sueded split-leather upper
Built-up arch area for firm support
Padded topline and lined, padded tongue for comfort.
High-rise sole protects counter and toe against wear
Sueded split-leather upper