Gallenkamp SCATS 1981 vintage sneaker ad

Here’s a 1981 vintage sneaker ad for Gallenkamp SCATS line of shoes. The logo on these is very similar to the old Pro-Keds logo from the same time.

Ad info is below:

SCATS® fit his and her active style
…with affordable fashion.
Introducing the SCATS line-up, America's action shoes for winners like you! Now… the sure footed traction of THE PAW; the amazing versatility of the A.S. 80 and the comfort and durability of the Court shoe are ready to go at Gallenkamp. Women's sizes to 10, Men's sizes to 13. $17.99 to $27.99

Gallenkamp shoes
scats

Gallenkamp shoes—One of the companies of SCOA Industries Inc.
Stores across America.

Etonic KM-501, Street Fighter KM-505 and KM-705 vintage sneaker ad from 1980

Here's a 1980 ad from Etonic featuring the Etonic KM-501, Street Fighter KM-505 and KM-705 sneaker models. During the height of the running boom, Etonic/km positioned itself as one of the first brands to market shoes as protective equipment for the body, not just performance gear. Backed by Dr. Rob Roy McGregor’s innovative one-piece heel and arch support, the design redistributed natural foot padding to act as a built-in shock absorber, reducing the pounding runners endured over long distances. Combined with features like a flared heel for stability, a reinforced heel counter for support, and a wide toe box to prevent irritation, Etonic set itself apart by emphasizing biomechanical protection and injury prevention years before concepts like motion control or stability shoes became mainstream.

One strange fact about Etonic was that during their running shoe heyday from 1976 to 1986 they were owned by Colgate. The same minty fresh Colgate that you may have brushed your teeth with this morning. This original print advertisement is available over at our RewindRunning.com web store.

Ad info is below:

Nothing protects this equipment, quite like this equipment.

You don't have bats, racquets, clubs, gloves, nets or goal posts. For a runner, the equipment list is simple: your body and your shoes. And it's no secret that the right shoe can make a difference as to how the rest of your equipment will function.

That's why we build so much protection into Etonic/km running shoes. We start with the Dr. Rob Roy McGregor' one-piece heel/arch support.* This unique device encourages a more rounded heel, gently forcing your natural padding under the foot to provide its own cushioning. So your foot acts as a natural shock absorber, helping the rest of your body to withstand the continuous jarring inherent in long distance running.

Etonic/km also incorporates a flared heel for greater stability, a sturdy heel counter for increased support, a high, wide toe box to min-imize toe irritations and many other highly protective features. All available for men and women in our tough, lightweight Street Fighters and the highly acclaimed Km-501. Protect your body in

Etonic/km running shoes.
'Patent Pending

Etonic/km Running Shoes
Km-501 for men. Street Fighter Km-505 for men, Km-705 for women.

Charles A. Eaton Company, Brockton, MA. 02403. A member of the Colgate Sports Group of Companies.

Vintage Converse 1979 ad for the World Class Trainer II, World Class Marathoner II and Invitational

We had someone email the blog to ID some 1970’s Converse today and I was able to dig up a 1979 ad for them. They had the World Class Trainer II and this ad also features the World Class Marathoner II and World Class Invitational.

Ad info is below:

CONVERSE INVITES YOU TO COMMIT YOURSELF.

Buy a pair of Converse World Class Running Shoes and get this one-of-a-kind Progress Plan free.

The final step to serious running is serious self-appraisal. If you are ready for that step, or if you have already taken it but don't have a day-to-day system, we would like to present you with a unique opportunity.

We have put together The World Class Progress Plan. It features the most comprehensive personal logs ever compiled, complete before-and-after stretching instructions by Bob Anderson: author of the book Stretching, and an introduction explaining the value of self-appraisal by Rory Donaldson, editor of Guidelines For Successful Jogging.

To get The World Class Progress Plan first buy either the Trainer II, the Marathoner II or the Invitational. The Trainer II and the Marathoner II are the only shoes that offer the unique combination of lace-to-toe design and variable width sizing to insure proper shoe fit. The result: a more even distribution of stress and a more comfortable shoe.

The Invitational is in a class by itself. No other shoe gives you a combination of rolled outersole and flared heel. The result: maximum stability on uneven surfaces.

These shoes were rated in the 1979 Runner's World shoe survey. The Trainer II and Invitational were awarded the highest five-star ratings while the Marathoner II earned a full four-stars. So if you are ready to make the commitment to serious running, commit yourself to a pair of Converse World Class Running Shoes. To receive a free World Class Progress Plan, tear off the end panel with the size and stock number from any World Class shoe box and send it with your return address to: Converse World Class Progress Plan, P.O. Box 9566. St. Paul. Minn. 55195

*CONVERSE
THE SHOES OF THE STARS
An Eltra Company

WORLD CLASS MARATHONER II
WORLD CLASS INVITATIONAL
WORLD CLASS TRAINER II

Cobra brand 1979 vintage sneaker ad

Tonight we're re-releasing a snake back into the wild with Cobra brand running shoes. Cobra was owned by a Brazilian conglomerate called Cobec who put out a few awesome 70s runners in their day. 🐍 This ad is from 1979.

This original vintage Cobra sneaker print ad is available at our web shop Rewind Running.

Ad info is below:

Cobra running shoes give you more mileage.

Hard surface or soggy path, Cobra running shoes are built to pleasantly stretch distance—for extra turns around the block or further into the hills. Cobra gives you more comfort for effortless strides. More support for the grinding pace. More overall quality to make running the spirited free sport it should be

Strike with Cobra... and you're in the action.

COBRA
ON THE FEET OF CHAMPIONS
A DIVISION OF COBEC

Vintage Moonstar UCLA sneaker ad from 1980

…And one more vintage ad from Popeye magazine with the homie hookup assist from @trainer.spotting. This time a super obscure 1980 vintage sneaker ad for the Moonstar UCLA sneakers. Check em outttt…

Vintage Converse 1978 "World Class" robot sneaker ad

Here’s a 1978 Converse “World Class” ad 🤖 from a Japanese magazine called Popeye in 1978. And a big shout out to our Instagram buddy over @trainer.spotting who passed along this ad. If you haven’t already you should check out his IG.

Vintage Converse Arizona sneaker ad from 1980

Here’s an old 1980 Converse ad for the Arizona model runners. If you want to learn more we previously posted another ad for this model here.

Ad info is below:

INTRODUCING THE PERFECT SHOE FOR AN IMPERFECT WORLD. THE NEW CONVERSE ARIZONA:
Wherever you run, there's a surface out to get you...hard, unyielding pavement; rough, uneven dirt; soft, unpredictable turf. The pounding, twisting punishment you absorb on these surfaces is incredible. Now, Converse has a shoe that puts the odds in your favor.

The Converse Arizona, A Totally Integrated Running System
At Converse we believe that a high-performance training shoe should combine stability, shock absorption and traction. The Arizona features an Integrated Running System* engineered with precisely this in mind.

Stability
Over-pronation, the leading cause of runners' injuries, is minimized through the unique Heel Lock System', which wraps the counter snugly around the heel and literally locks it in place. This feature combined with a rein-forced nylon mesh upper and molded insole provides a degree of stability you just can't get in any other shoe.

Shock Absorption
Hard surfaces shouldn't be hard on your legs. That's why the Arizona features a midsole layer of Sport Cell', a highly shock absorbent material designed exclusively for Converse. This substance not only dissipates the initial impact of heel-strike, but also effectively directs residual shock out the side of the sole.

Superior Traction — On Every Surface
Because man does not run on pavement alone, the new Arizona is designed with extra traction features. Our Toe Propulsion Ridge maximizes traction on toeoff. The scientifically designed outsole studs reinforce critical wear areas... a must for all-surface running. And our Heel Wear Bar reinforces the primary impact area... helping the Arizona, and you, last miles longer. Converse believes all these features work together to make the Arizona a fast, safe, comfortable training shoe over any surface. Whether you run on the pavement, through the park, or on country roads, we're confident that the new Arizona will make a good hard run easier on your legs.

⋆ CONVERSE an ELTRA company
*Patent Pending Converse 1979

Wolf Super Pro XL retro sneaker ad

Here’s a vintage ad for Bob Wolf Super Pro XL featuring the XLerator sole. This original vintage Bob Wolf XL print ad is available at our web store RewindRunning.com.

Ad info is below:

Wolf Super Pro XL
ahead of the pack at $26.

Suede leather (reinforcement)
Nylon uppers (lightness)
Pillow tongue (comfort)
Tricot lining (absorption)
Padded ankle collar (anti-chafe)
Rolled toe (acceleration)
XLerator sole (traction and shock absorption)
Air pistons (lightness and shock reduction)
Thermoplastic rubber (flexibility and durability)

You're serious about running and so is Super Pro XL.' As you know running requires lots of sweat and commit-ment. That's exactly what it takes to build an excellent running shoe, but it's not what we put into the shoe that counts it's what you get out of it. We give you air piston heels and pillow tongues; you get comfort and safety. We use double stitching, suede reinforcement, durable fibers and sole; you get more for your money. We continually devote ourselves to design and construction excellence; you experience the thrill of conquering your own limitations. Order a pair of the Super Pro XL's-- or write for our free color catalog. You'll get a real run for your money.

Bob Wolf Associates, Inc.
15421 Assembly Lane
Huntington Beach, California 92647

Mens Colors Ladies
❑ blue/yellow — light blue/blue ❑ black/yellow .1 beige/brown ❑ orange/black
Size No. of pairs Name Address City State Zip. Total $26.00 (includes 6% sales tax, $1.75 postage/handling)

Adidas Nite Jogger 1977 vintage sneaker ad

Here’s a 1977 vintage sneaker ad for the Adidas Nite Jogger runner featuring the “ phosphorescent heel stripes” and Ghilly lacing.

Ad info is below:

The Nite Jogger — another first from adidas

Nite Jogger - the shoe to be seen in.

The Nite Jogger is the first road runner ever conceived for the after dark jogger. Its phosphorescent heel stripes glow brightly in the dark. making for safer jogging in busy traffic areas.

But there is more to this unique new shoe than glow. Designed primarily for road surfaces, these additional features make the Nite Jogger the shoe it is: Thicker and softer midsole absorbs the considerable heel pounding experienced on road surfaces, and provides a perfectly cushioned roll action of the foot. Uppers made of Cangoran —a man-made leather-like material that breathes and forms to the foot. New Ghilly lacing makes for easier lacing & unlacing. Traction sole profile is swept up on heel and toe to provide full protection against excessive abrasion and wear caused by road surfaces.

For more information contact your local dealer.

adidas
The all-sports people

Osaga 1979 retro sneaker ad for the KT-26 runner

Here’s an old Osaga brand vintage ad for the KT-26 bio-kinetic construction that was “built with bio-kinetic construction” and now you can match your runners with a warm up sweat-suit.

We’ve posted a few other Osaga ads here, here and there’s a kids pair of Osaga runners in this ad here.

UPDATE: Osaga Returns with the KT-26 in 2025! The legendary cult running brand is making waves again—revived by the grandchildren of its founders. Classic models from the 1970s and ’80s like the KT-26 and Moscow 80 are back, reimagined for today.
👉 Shop the Osaga retro sneaker collection here

Osaga KT-26 retro running shoes reissues

Affiliate Disclosure: If you buy Osaga shoes through the link above, we may receive a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Your support helps us continue researching and sharing the history of iconic running shoes like the KT-26.

Ad info is below:

KT-26 from top to bottom

We've told you about our revolutionary running shoe, the KT-26 . . . built with bio-kinetic construction for greater comfort and endurance. Now we want you to know about our coordinated actionwear designed to keep you looking as good as you feel. KT-26 warm-ups are made of washable 100% nylon tricot lustre with napped lining (women's are also available in brushed nylon tricot). Matching running shorts are made in women's sizes of nylon tricot lustre. Coordinated racing shorts and singlets are designed for lightweight comfort for both men and women. KT-26 T-shirt for men and women of 100% combed cotton.

osaga
For The Human race

For more information contact: Corporate Headquarters °SAGA, Incorporated, 2468 West 11th Avenue Eugene. Oregon 97402, Phone (503) 484-1344

Kangaroos Comet II vintage sneaker ad from 1983

We’ve covered ‘Roos a little bit in the past here, here, here and here and today we’re back with a retro ad for the Comet II model from 1983.

Ad info is below:

INTRODUCING COMET II

Comet II . the ultimate competition shoe.
LIGHTWEIGHT—Comet II - in size 8 weigh in at an incredible 7 ounces! Made of pigskin and nylon, the Comet II remains light even when wet!
FLEXIBLE—Comet II " is full slip-lasted with removable cup insole for outstanding flexibility.
STABLE—Comet lI has a wide heel base and a stability wedge with a firm heel counter which helps prevent pronation.

LOOK OUT WORLD!

SHOCK-ABSORBING—Comet II has a natural rubber outsole with an EVA midsole permeated by four rear air corridors to provide maximum shock absorption.
SUPPORT—Comet variable lacing system provides a glove-like fit which prevents unnecessary movement within the shoe. Racers know that even small amounts of excess movement can tire their legs prematurely. DURABLE—Comet built to last. This allows the Comet II to serve as both a speed workout shoe and a racing flat.
See the exciting new Comet II today.

KangaROOS
1983 KangaROOS U.S.A.. Inc.
St. Louis Missouri
Shoes With Pockets
U.S./Foreign Patents Pending.

Hersey custom running shoes 1988 vintage sneaker ad

Here’s a 1988 vintage ad from Hersey Custom shoes. Hersey is still in business in Fitchburg, MA and their website is here.

Ad info is below:

The best running shoe in the world Is the one made just for you.

By the Hersey Custom Shoe Company.

For trail, track or road

With Hersey Customs, your options are unlimited. You name it, we'll do it. Please write or call for details.

The Hersey Custom Shoe Company
RFD #3, Box 7390 Farmington, Maine 04938
207/778-3103

Sears The Winner II Runner 1980 vintage sneaker ad

Nope, not adidas. Today we've got and old school 1980 three stripe vintage sneaker ad from Sears for the Winner II Runner. We’re always down for the blue and orange NY Knicks colorway.

Ad info is below:

Imported running shoe for men and big boys
The winner II runner ... designed to meet joggers' special needs
Mes’s sizes $19.99 Bigs Boys’ sizes $18.99

All colors feature reflective fabric trim. The unique trim which reflects bright silver white light to help you be seen by approaching motorists at night.

Padded tongue for snug lacing

Padded collar reduces friction

Counter holds heel firmly in place

Lightweight nylon upper reinforced with sueded split-leather

Fiddle shank design reduces shoe weight

Sponge rubber midsole flared at heel absorbs shock, stabilizes

Thick, heel-to-toe sponge rubber insole has built-up arch

Lugged outsole for long wear, traction

Colors (2 and 31 in men's sizes only

( 1 thru 4) UPPERS: Nylon with sueded split-leather reinforcement at toe. heel and eyelet are.. Absorbent cushioned nylon tricot lining. Tongue is lined and pad-ded for snug lacing. Padded vinyl collar and peaked back. Heel counter holds heel firmly. Reflective fabric on side stripes and heel counter.

SOLES, HEELS: Durable. individually molded, lugged rubber sole is flared at heel for stability and shock absor-bency. Sole rises over toe to protect against wear. Sponge rubber insole has built-up arch for comfort and support. Lightweight fiddle-shank design.

Cleaning Note: The sueded portions of these shoes should be cleaned with a wire suede-brush. Washing is not recommended for these or any other sueded leather shoes. Do not use wire brush on nylon.

Nike Roadrunner 1970s vintage sneakers

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

Vintage Nike LD-1000, Sting, Waffle trainer and Le Village 1977 sneaker ad

Here's another vintage 1977 ad featuring the Nike LD-1000, Sting, Waffle trainer and Le Village model sneakers.

Ad info is below:

SEND FOR A NIKE MAIL BOX.

As soon as we receive your order it's processed and shipped —usually the same day it arrives. Simply pick out the sportswear you want, fill in the coupon, and mail your order. Then, sit back and wait for the postman to arrive.

The LD-1000 $39.95
This is the shoe for you if you're looking for a super trainer. The revolutionary design helps reduce twist and shock. The patented waffle sole gives you better traction, and the wide flared heel gives you better running stability. Lightweight uppers of nylon mesh and suede. Comes in blue and yellow.

Nike Sting $34.95
Nike's lightweight marathon shoe features nylon mesh for strength, yet cool running. Suede leather toe reinforcing gives snug, comfortable fit. Unique suction sole delivers great traction on all road conditions. A big step forward in marathon shoes from Nike.

Athletic Dept Warmups $14.95
These comfortable nylon and cotton warmups are available in green with blue stripes, or blue with yellow stripes. Great style, great fit, great price.

Waffle Trainer $29.95
The Waffle Trainer features patented waffle sole for cushior: traction, yet minimum weight. Flat outer sole, beveled heel, tough nylon upper and the new bluer,' with bright yellow "swoosh'

Le Village $28.95
A beautiful stylish casual shoe with an athletic look. Soft, antique brown leather uppers. Cushier mid soles. As comfortable as they are long wearing.

Diadora 'The Rally' 1978 vintage sneaker ad

Here’s an old school vintage sneaker ad for Diadora's "The Rally" model sneaker from 1978. This model came equipped with uppers made of nylon and wild boar 🐗 as well as the legendary Diadora "speed laces"

Ad info is below:

DIADORA EXCELLENCE IN ATHLETIC SHOES

Excellence is over one hundred years of European craftsmanship. Excellence is a durable and long lasting shoe, made from the finest materials available. Excellence is THE RALLY by Diadora. Compare them...you'll wear them.

diadora
Italian Afletica Shoes.

-Heel cusnioning and heel shock support

-Absorbent terri cloth lining

-Uppers of nylon and wild boar

-Speed laces

-Forefoot cushioning and shock support

-Slightly flared heel

-Individually molded natural gum-rubber sole

EB Lydiard 1978 vintage sneaker ad by Brütting

Here’s a 1978 vintage Foot Locker ad for the EB Lydiard line by Brütting. These runners were designed by Arthur Lydiard.

Ad info is below:

Foot Locker introduces Lydiard. The shoe that separates you from the pack.

At Foot Locker, we know that the proper shoes are the most crucial investment an athlete can make. And we don't want you to make that investment without a thorough look at the field.

That's why we re tipping you off about the most important new line of running shoes to come along in years. The EB Lydiard line by Brütting. Designed by world-famous trainer Arthur Lydiard and produced by Germany's foremost leather craftsman, Eugen Brütting, these shoes are the result of meticulous research and state-of-the-art construction. They're destined to be one of the hottest names on the track or the road. And we should know. At Foot Locker we carry them all.

Sears Jeepers 1970 3 stripe vintage sneaker ad

Nope, not adidas. Today we've got and old school 1970 black and white 3 stripe vintage sneaker ad from Sears and this line was called "Jeepers." The sneakers were a bargain but they'd only give you laces long enough to get up to the 4th hole.

Puma Super Sonic 1979 vintage sneaker advertisement

Today we've got a 1979 vintage sneaker ad for the Puma Super Sonic which at the time was lightest racing shoe Puma ever made.

Ad info is below:

THE LIGHT FANTASTIC
Super Sonic by Puma

If you've ever run barefoot along a cool, grassy stretch you know how free and natural it can feel. Now there's a shoe that provides the next best feeling. It's the Super Sonic by Puma, at 190 grams the lightest racing shoe the company has ever built. It's a shoe for serious long distance racing— where every ounce counts. Look for it soon where you buy your equipment and take a trip on the light fantastic— Super Sonic by Puma.

PUMA
PUT ON THE CAT!

Karhu Synchron 1985 vintage sneaker ad

Here's an old school 1985 vintage sneaker ad for the Karhu Synchron model of running shoes. Karhu brought these back and they're available on their site over at https://karhu.com.

Ad info is below:

Europes Best

Karhu Synchron, a market leader in Scandinavia, winner of independent shoe tests in Germany and Austria. Now available in the United States. The Karhu Synchron features uncompromised durability, maximum directional stability, excellent shock absorption and comfortable support.

Our best All Terrain training shoe featuring
Air Cushion Shock Absorption
Double Fibreglass heel counter
Anatomical Insole
Synchron lacing Available in high tops

Call for Dealer information:
Karhu
55 Green Mountain Drive
South Burlington, VT 05401
800-222-1833

KARHU
'Top Ranking, 1985 Stiftung Markentest, 1985 Konsument