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

Vans 5000 vintage sneaker ad from 1984

Here’s an old school 1984 retro sneaker ad for Vans 5000 model sneakers. The running shoes had steel in them…

Ad info is below:

GUARANTEED:
1 YEAR OR 5000 MILES

STEP STABILIZERS
CARBON COMPOUND
STEEL MESH

Step stabilizers are integrated within the midsole design, thus reducing pronation and supination. Two layers of steel mesh are impregnated with our exclusive carbon compound which has been developed for superior abrasion resistance. (when you see steel you've only just begun to wear us out!!!

Welcome to a New Generation of runners. footwear. The VANS 5000! Never before has a running shoe so outdistanced the competition. Our revolutionary patent pending sole construction features state-of-the-art advances fully protected under our extraordinary 1 Year or 5000 Mile guarantee.

The VANS 5000. More performance. More durability. At a price much less than you'd expect. Ask your sporting goods dealer to assist you in the fitting of the VANS 5000. Remember, it is available in sizes 61/2-20, widths 4A-5E for that personalized fit.

“VANS 5000” TIME OR DISTANCE
GUARANTEED RUNNING SHOE!!!

VANS
Anaheim, CA

Asics Tiger Pan Am and X-BR 1980 vintage sneaker ad

Today we’ve got a vintage 1980 sneaker ad for the Asics “Pan Am” and “X-BR” model sneakers. This original vintage print advertisement is available over at our RewindRunning.com web shop.

Ad info is below:

HUMAN ENGINEERING - TIGERSTYLES!

X-BR GNO1 (NEW)
PAN AM TM43 (NEW)

X-BR, worn by the winner at the last two Boston and New York marathons. The ultimate marathon shoe from its carbonized suction soles to ventilated lightweight uppers. Pan Am, designed for the Pan Am games. The best in training shoes, combining comfortable durability with stylistic freshness. Tiger is quality. Tiger is innovation. That's human engineering —Tigerstyle.

asics TIGER
SPORT SHOES
ASICS Sports of America Inc.
2052 ALTON AVENUE,
IRVINE, CALIFORNIA 92714, U.S.A.

Pro-Specs 1979 "Marathon Series" vintage sneaker ad

Here’s a 1979 retro sneaker ad for the Pro-Specs ‘Marathon Series’ sneakers featuring the Munich, Montreal, Innsbruck and Athens models:

Ad info is below:

Pro Specs Introduces the Marathon Series

With 3500 miles and 51/2 million footsteps of a grueling cross U.S.A. run as its testing ground, the new Specs Marathon Series has proven itself for durability, support and comfort. Engineered for long distance running, these shoes have conquered 130 degree desert heat, traversed the ominous Rockies and splashed through torrential rain and hailstorms intact.

The Specs Marathons: The running shoes that will conquer the distance, not let the distance conquer you ...

The Marathoners feature:
(1 ) The "Munich": Specs own "Track 80" outsole with its all terrain gripper design.
(2) The "Montreal": Custom engineered to fit all insteps in comfort.
(3) The "Athens": Light as a feather with mudguard outsole for maximum spring.
(4) The "Innsbruck": Unsurpassed flexibility and durability with unique poly outsole.

The Specs Marathoners are shoes designed by serious runners for people who take running seriously.

Fastrak 1979 retro sneaker ad for the Flex-26

Here’s an old school 1979 vintage sneaker ad for Fastrak brand sneakers Flex-26 model. Fastrak was based in Elk Grove Village, IL and these runners are a new take on the ever popular 4 stripes theme. This ad also introduces a sports podiatrist. which was another popular theme back in the day.

Ad info is below:

Reach for the horizon.

This isn't an ad for a shoe. It's for a feeling. Introducing Flex-26. The incredible new shoe from Fastrak. The shoe that feels so much a part of you it seems only natural to run longer. Run farther than ever before. The reasons? Extra-flexibility under forefoot. Support for your Achilles while you cover progressively greater distances. And an exclusive Fastrak design tested and approved by Dr. Lowell Scott Weil, the widely known sports podiatrist and podiatric surgeon, and supervisor of our Sports Advisory Staff. Flex-26. It's one hell of a shoe. For one heavenly feeling. See the Flex-26 and other Fastrak styles at your nearby Fastrak dealer.

FLEX-26
WHEN YOU'RE READY TO GO THE DISTANCE.

FASTRAK
ATHLETIC FOOTWEAR
National Headquarters: 2400 Greenleaf Ave., Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 312/593-6050.

Jox by Thom McAn Cross Country retro sneaker ad

Here’s an old retro sneaker ad for the Jox ‘Cross Country’ model sneakers, which look a whole lot like the Adidas Country sneakers.

Ad info is below:

JOX
You don't have to be one to wear them.

Introducing the Jox "cross country” model. The brand, new leather mover from Thom McAn., The rugged wrap-around sole molded to grip and move over the roughest terrain.

The lightweight leather upper, padded ankle and cushioned inner sole are made to make the going easy

Best of all, the “cross country” model is still a winner when you're standing still. Jox. You don't have to be one to wear them. . And you don’t have to spend a bundle to buy them.

The Jox “cross country” model. In revolutionary red, white and blue or country green and white leather. Just $19.99. (Jox are also available in nylon for just $16.99.)

Thom McAn
Who needs to spend more when you've got Thorn McAn.

Pro Specs 1980 Innsbruck II and Munich II vintage sneaker ad

Here’s a 1980 vitage sneaker ad for the Pro-Specs Innsbruck II and Munich II fat bottom and shock bottom sneakers.

Ad info is below:

THE BOTTOM LINE:
THE INNSBRUCK II
FAT BOTTOM
FAT BOTTOM’s bottom line is pure performance. Pure performance made possible by Specs exclusive polyflex polyurethane outsole. It's fat. Durable. Flexible. And super shock- absorbing. And although the new INNSBRUCK II is fat in design, . it's real skinny in price... $30.00 or less.

THE MUNICH II
SHOCK BOTTOM
SHOCK BOTTOM’s bottom line is shock a shack-absorbing technology. Specs technology created special angular grooves in the outsole to follow the foot's natural metatarsal flex. Specs scientific technology created holes in the rnidsole to reduce weight and add tremendous shock absorbency. In fact, the only shock you'll probably ever get from the all terrain MUNICH II is its price ...under $30.

SPECS New INSIDE SECRET
FOOT BOTTOM
Here's just one major inside secret of Specs bottom line performance. It's Specs removable FOOT BOTTOM insole found exclusively in the INNSBRUCK II and MUNICH II. It's made.of) a Dow #6 polyethylene base bonded to a sueded Poron' top. The base molds perfectly to each individual foot. The Poron top has amazing bounce-back memory after every step. What results is an almost custom-made insole.

INNSBRUCK II and MUNICH II are available in men's, women's and boys' sizes.

New Specs,.Inc., Avon, MA 02322
PRO-SPECS
“The Bottom Line ls Perforcmance”

Puma SAAS1 and LA Rider 1982 vintage sneaker ad

Here’s a 1982 vintage sneaker ad for Puma featuring the SAAS1 and LA Rider model sneakers.

Ad info is below:

You can carry your warm-up suit, accessories, anything in this versatile runner's duffel from Puma. At $3, it's a great deal that goes along with your next purchase of Puma running shoes. Run down to your nearest Puma dealer soon, because the offer ends September 30, 1982.

Bag-a-Puma. Put yourself in Bill Rodgers' shoes and save $7 on this runner's duffel.

Puma. In a class by itself. World Class.

Brooks 1979 Vantage Supreme vintage sneaker ad

Here’s a 1979 vintage sneaker ad for the Brooks Vantage Supreme.

Ad info is below:

Its like flying.

It's like flying. Like skimming the earth. Barely touching down. It's like soaring. With a fresh breeze at your back and the whole world in front of you. It's the sweet taste of cool air in your lungs. The crunch of country gravel. The swishing sound of hot concrete as it melts away under your feet. It's a shoe so light you barely know it's on. A shoe that hugs your heel and cushions every footfall. A shoe that meets the earth squarely and evenly as it propels you steadily along. It's the Brooks feeling. The Brooks Sensation. Sensational.

The Vantage Supreme Features:
Perforated Midsole. Scientifically designed perforation pattern flexes naturally with your foot and protects delicate metatarsals.

Custom Contour Insole. Molds to your foot as you run for custom fit at heel and arch.

Varus Wedge:TM* 4° midsole wedge reduces twisting of the foot and lessens heel impact to help prevent foot, ankle, knee, and back problems.

Reinforced Racing Stud Sole.* Cushions every footfall and dissipates road shock. Reinforced heel extends sole life.

Five Star Shoes:
Vantage
Vantage Supreme
Lady Vantage
Lady Vantage Supreme

RW 5 - Star ***** Runner’s World Magazine

BROOKS
*Patents Pending
Shoe Mfg. Co., Inc.. Hanover, Pa. 17331

AMBI Trailmates 1979 vintage sneaker ad

Ad info is below.

GIVE 'EM THE RUN AROUND...

... with Ambi Trailmates, the special) designed Running Shoe for Women who like to stay out front.

AMBI, PO.Box 249, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72401.

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