Look no further than Gucci’s recent collaboration with Adidas, featuring retro tracksuits, RTW, and, more importantly, trainers, to see that nostalgia is in - and it’s here to stay.
Luckily, nearly every major sneaker brand offers a throwback design so you can get the look without investing over £500 on Gucci’s take on the trend.
From the classic silhouette to the bold colour palette, retro kicks take their style cues from running trainers in the 70s and 80s, often crafted using a mixture of mesh, suede and leather, all juxtaposed in a panelled design. Primarily derived from performance shoes, they offer maximum comfort without compromising on style. Whether you’re partial to Adidas’ iconic triple stripe, Nike’s Swoosh, or Puma’s wave, a defining feature is the logo or pattern on the side that’s usually in a contrast colour.
The best part? They go with almost anything. You can use them to dress down a slouchy suit for a smart casual affair, fully commit to the trend by pairing them with a full tracksuit, or simply wear them with a pair of jeans and a white T-shirt - either way, the bold colour means you can either go for a matchy-matchy outfit, or can opt for a contrast instead.
The only problem... once you start wearing them, you’ll never want to take them off. Keep scrolling to discover our favourites available right now.
Best black trainers for men in 2022
Best new trainer releases in September: the latest sneaker drops, from Nike to Allbirds
Best white trainers for men 2022 to suit your style
Best winter coats for men: From wool coats to macs and more
Best hiking shoes for men to give you support and durability out on the trail
Best men’s underwear brands: Boxers, briefs and more from designer brands
Best eco-friendly trainers: Sustainable shoes that are kind to the planet
Reebok LX2200 Shoes Blue Slate Cold Grey Core Black
With a history dating back to 1895, Reebok has a vast archive to pull from - and these particular trainers are looking back to the 1970s. With contrast blue and white detailing, a classic silhouette and vintage logos, these vintage kicks are given a up-to-date look with sharp lines and rugged edges. 1970, but make it 2022.
Buy now £52.50, Reebok
Puma Smash v2 Trainers
If you’re not into bright colours, fear not, because German brand Puma has got you covered. A tennis-inspired take on the trend, these are a smashing pair of trainers that are made for off the court. Designed in an understated monochrome palette, they’re a versatile addition to any shoe rack.
Buy now £52.00, Puma
Adidas Gazelles
A Harry Styles favourite, Adidas’ classic Gazelles are an authentic reissue of the 90s-era style. Featuring the same textures and materials as the 1991 version, these are a prime example of a vintage sneaker at its best.
Originally a training shoe for indoor sports like football and handball, they have since been adopted by all anyone with a love for 90s nostalgia. If burgundy isn’t the colour for you, there are 18 others to choose from.
Buy now £75.00, Adidas
Converse Chuck 70 Classic
Perhaps the most iconic high-top on the market, Converse’s Chuck 70s will forever be a classic. Dating back to 1917, this style began life on the basketball court before making a fashion comeback in 2013 when it became a streetwear staple. The star patch and classic cream colourway ramps up the shoe’s vintage style.
Buy now £80.00, Converse
Diadora Game L Low Waxed
Popular in the 80s, Italian sportswear brand Diadora has been having a resurgence in recent years - and its iconic trainers live up to the brand’s heyday rep. A unisex style, these leather kicks boast a graphic logo detail in green, a sporty silhouette, and have been waxed for extra protection and water-resistance. A wardrobe staple that will last.
Buy now £75.00, Diadora
New Balance 574
King of the dad-trainer trend, New Balance is the go-to for a pair of retro trainers. Offering a vast range of classic silhouettes in endless colours, there’s a style for everyone. Known as the brand’s flagship sneaker, the 574s, which were originally made for running, are perhaps the most iconic style. Go for the red for a perky addition to any outfit.
Buy now £100.00, New Balance
Axel Arigato A-Dice Lo Sneaker
Founded in 2014, Axel Arigato has become a cult favourite for sneakerheads globally in as little as eight years. One of the brand’s more recent additions, the A-Dice Lo sneaker, takes vintage design details like suede and leather panelling and a bold contrast logo, and gives them a modern update with the use of recycled fabrics and a colourful sole. Handcrafted in Portugal, they’re well made sneakers that will stand the test of time.
Buy now £195.00, Axel Arigato
Saucony Shadow 5000 Trainers
Featuring a panelled construction and contrast trims, running brand Saucony’s Shadow 5000s combine the comfort of performance wear with a modern sporty aesthetic for a trainer that wouldn’t look out of place on a 80s running track. Originally released in 1985 as a running shoe, they’ve since been adopted by the fashion world - but still offer the same comfort and stability as the original.
Buy now £120.00, Saucony
Veja Riobranco Trainers
As the front-runner in the ethical sneaker market, Veja creates its trainers using recycled and ethical fabrics without chemicals or pollution. The Riobrancos are no exception and would make a great addition to any trainer collection.
Buy now £110.00, Office
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66
Japanese brand Onitsuka Tiger, now owned by sportswear giant Asics, has been creating trainers since 1949. The Mexico 66 is a blend of two of the brand’s classic training shoes released in the 60s, combining the throwback aesthetic with modern design features for perhaps its most iconic shoe yet.
Buy now £85.00, Onitsuka Tiger
