While trends in the world sneakerand change almost from season to season, there are models that manage to remain relevant for years. Among them is the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 – a sneaker that has turned from a retro sports model into one of the most desirable fashion pieces today.
If it looks familiar, it’s no accident. In the last few years, there is hardly an Instagram feed, street style gallery or fashion week that hasn’t featured these signature Tiger Stripe sneakers.
Their story begins in 1966, when they were originally designed for the Japanese athletics team before qualifying for the Olympic Games in Mexico City. Today, they are far from athletic tracks, but that’s why they have conquered fashion runways and city streets around the world.
What sets the Mexico 66 apart from most modern sneakers is its slim silhouette. In an era of massive soles and bulky models, these sneakers offer a completely different aesthetic. They are elegant, light and reduced enough to look equally good with wide palazzo pants, slip skirts, straight jeans or a tracksuit.
Perhaps their greatest quality is that they do not dominate the outfit, but round it off. The foot visually appears narrower and more elegant, and the whole styling gets a slightly retro, but very modern look.
In addition, the Mexico 66 is considered one of the most comfortable sneakers in its category. The soft leather quickly adapts to the foot, there is no break-in period, and the flexible sole follows every movement. Many owners claim that they are among the rare models that they could wear for hours on the first day.
Although they look minimalistic, they offer more support than you’d expect from such a thin sneaker. They are almost as light as slippers, but stable enough for everyday city duties.
Of course, there are also flaws. The price has increased significantly in recent years, so a model that could once be found for around a hundred dollars today costs almost twice as much. Also, their narrow profile may not suit people with wider feet, and fans of thick, soft soles might want a bit more cushioning.
However, despite the many new models that appear every season, the Mexico 66 remains one of the few examples of sneakers that successfully balance fashion, comfort and timeless design. Perhaps that is why they are still considered a model that many return to – regardless of trends.
