top 5 classic sneakers of all time?

October 6th, 2008. Published under cool and fun. 3 Comments.

Yes you guessed it I am a sneaker freak. Love my sneakers and bought another pair today so I thought I outline my top 5 sneakers of ALL time! This was a tough one but I soon got there! Totally off topic here but just thought I post a fun topic

Number 5

‘New Balance was born in Cambridge, MA in 1906 by 33-year old English immigrant, William J. Riley. Riley had a specific concern with foot health that led him into the field of prescription footwear. Up until this time, very few shoes took into consideration the shape of the bottom of the foot, specifically the arch. In 1934, Riley partnered with his leading salesman, Arthur Hall, who took Riley’s products to policemen, postal workers, and others who spent a majority of their working day on their feet.

Despite the success of the company, it took another four years until New Balance shoes entered into the sporting world. While the shoes were relatively low key in the sporting world, they did appear on many long distance runners feet, especially marathoners. In the 1950’s the company was passed down to Riley’s relatives and in 1961 the company focused on the sports industry. The result of the new focus of the company was the Trackster. This shoe was unique withwidth fittings and a rippled sole.

The New Balance as we know it began in 1972 on the day of the Boston Marathon when Jim Davis purchased the company. When Davis took over the company, the company was making only 30 models of shoes and had only six full-time employees. Only three years later in 1975, Tom Fleming won the New York Marathon wearing the New Balance 320. Also in 75, the New Balance 320 was voted the best running shoe by Runner’s World magazine.

Though New Balance has never been a top selling company, its reputation of quality is unmatched. Many refer to its following as almost cult status by some runners who will not ever try running in anything but New Balance shoes. In addition to a quality fit, New Balance has earned the reputation of using the highest quality materials on their shoes.

While many multinational footwear companies constantly look for the cheapest labor source, New Balance has done just the opposite producing its top models in the USA and England. This move has been noticed and appreciated by sneaker fans looking for a comfortable and well built shoe.’

source -http://www.nicekicks.com/new-balance/

Number 4

Yes anyone who knows sneakers would know that Adidas is definitely in the top 5. Well one of my all time favourites from Adidas is the SuperStar 35th Anniversary Edition # 1 of 35 - ADI DASSLER.

There are only 700 of these in the world and retail for 700 USD today! Pictures courtesy of http://www.pickyourshoes.com/casual/adidas_superstar35_con_adi.htm

Number 3

This was a tough one to place at Number 3. But definitely in my Top 5!

Brand History

The astonishing Tiger story
Run like a Tiger

‘The founder of the now well-known shoes and apparel brand ASICS had already led an adventurous life, when in 1949, at the age of 31, he entered a new phase in his life. After years in the military and having worked for a company who bought and sold beer on the black market, Onitsuka decided that sports could play an important role in rebuilding the self-esteem of the youngsters in Japan. He learned how to manufacture shoes and founded Onitsuka Co Ltd. It was the start of a company that would develop into one of the five largest brands in the world market of sports shoes.’

More info at:- http://www.onitsukatiger.com.au/brand_history/brand_history.cfm

Number 2

Who can ever for get Nike. Making great shoes since the 70’s! So coming in at Number 2 is of course the NIKE AIR MAX 90. Released in the early 90’s it is still very popular today. As a matter of fact so popular Nike re-released the shoe and my guess is that in 3-4 years time it will be worth around the 500 USD mark! Not bad for a retro shoe huh?

 

NUMBER 1

OK guys you ready for this.. of course MY ALL TIMEsneakers is the NIKE AIR JORDAN! There have been hundreds of shoes released under Michael Jordan and all sports fans understand why. He is truley one of the greatest atheletes in his time!

I am not going to list all of his shoes made by Nike but the one I loved most was the AIR JORDAN III - made in 1987/1988. But I am sure you must have your own personal favourite from his collection.

More info here: http://www.kicksonfire.com/what-are-air-jordans/air-jordan-3-iii/

So there you have it guys. My top 5 all time favourites. Unfortunately I can find the Number 1 in stores anymore so if you ever come across one please please please let me know. Hope you enjoyed the post and please feel free to add your comments if you are a sneaker freak!

Sin Boutkaska