Sneakers are the name, retro is the game. With the vintage tides wavering, value is placed on salvaging remnants of the past, basking in its eternal glory. This fact may be credible with apparel pieces when rummaging at the local flea or even your parents’ closets, though it may not be the same for footwear.
In essence, sneakers are to be worn, as only time and exposure to the natural will ultimately lead to their downfall. Unlike the newest edition of the NBA 2K franchise, it’s not as if we have a sneaker Valhalla at our disposal—cycling through the classics and getting the most wear out of them (or at least until next year’s version).
To our satisfaction, classics can resurrect from the archives, with today’s generation breathing life into “yesterday’s” footwear. Got a specific silhouette you’d want to see re-emerge in the flesh? Raise your hopes and Questions to the sneaker gods, as you might just get the Answer to your prayers.
adidas Yeezy 350
Definitely, a wild card to start, though hear us out.
Controversy slates the adidas Yeezy 350 (technically the entire Yeezy line in general) following the antisemitic statements of the collection’s architect, Kanye West. The Grammy-award-winning artist severed ties with the brand in late-2022, yet the designs of the pairs are strictly under the Adidas helm.
West’s Yeezy 350 V2 models feature a revamped design yet a similar structure, with a pure prime knit upper and full-length boost promoting utmost comfortability. Unlike its predecessor, the updated variation of the pair features a radioactive side strip, which many (including myself) may find displeasing straying from its original monochromatic renditions. The 350s pose as a revolutionary icon, defining the innovative decade of footwear.
With the departure of the Three Stripes’ poster child, only time will tell what the brand will make of the silhouettes, minus the ‘YEEZY’ title. I wouldn’t be too surprised if the demand surges even without Mr. West’s stamp of approval, though it will not pose the same effect as Ye did (I miss the old Kanye, straight from the ‘Go Kanye).
New Balance 991, 992, 993
Recognized as the epitome of the surging dad trend, New Balance’s 990-line will and has always remained relevant. Renowned for its somewhat chunky silhouette, the pair is ideal for everyday usage, providing comfort and timelessness throughout its 40-plus-year existence.
The early ‘00s reflected the brand’s innovative runner-centric leap, integrating ABZORB foam in its 991 (2001), 992 (2006), and 993 (2008) sneakers. New Balance reinforces its industry position by integrating newfound technologies, though the 99x-line continues to flourish—aging like fine wine. These silhouettes have been draped in different flavors throughout the years, never diverting from their classic appearance—as it would not come as a surprise if the centenarian juggernaut chooses to resurrect and GR these legends for a proper comeback.
Nike Air Pegasus 92
Providing the world a glance during Team USA’s ‘92 Olympic campaign, the Nike Air Pegasus model continues to thrive, adapting to suit the present-day runner. The iconic silhouette is a suitable candidate for the recurring dadcore movement, though sadly discontinued in 2019. Taking on the “USA Track & Field alias, the original ‘92 and ‘16 retro pair features bold white and off-red hints coupled with sparks of blue and gold. We’d recommend the classic Swoosh, provided the opportunity to acquire it (if the timeless New Balance models aren’t for you).
Nike Zoom Vomero 5
Making waves in late-2022, the Nike Zoom Vomero 5 showcases glimpses of life, witnessed through the plethora of colorways and collaborations after more than a decade since its conception. The simplistic yet reliable runner is recognized for its unrivaled comfort at the time, with the pair’s resurgence due to the positive reception and appeal it so much deserves. In pursuit of a proper comeback, check out local retailers if they still got a pair in your size.
