Popular hip-hop sneakers that are infamous in b-boy circles.
First produced in 1969, the Adidas Superstar was the first low-top leather basketball shoe made. With its rubber toe box, it became known as the “shell toe”. The styling and fit were adopted by key figures on the hip-hop scene. The shoes reached iconic status when the rap group Run-DMC endorsed them and paid homage in the track, My adidas. They remain icons today.
Timelessly cool, the Puma Suede low-cut sneaker features a soft, suede upper with perforated side and contrast line detail. I think it is safe to say that many sneaker fanatics first started collecting Puma Suedes in various colors before moving on to other brands. Check out other retro sneaker models
here.
The Adidas Forum builds upon classic Adidas styling to produce a slightly heavier and chunkier kick. Finding cool Forums can be tricky as they do disappear fast, especially if you live in the Midwest. Also listed as one of the hottest high tops on the streets, you can find these in all sort of colors and cool anniversary editions. You can start browsing for a pair here.
First released in 1982 as the Tournament, the Campus is without a doubt one of the most iconic adidas sneakers ever produced. Known on the hip-hop scene and soon adopted by skateboarders worldwide, the Campus gained a following after Brooklyn rappers the Beastie Boys started to wear the shoe religiously. The association was immortalized in the cover of their 1992 album
Check Your Head.
Prominent in international street scenes since the early 80's, the Nike Cortez is a true star classic and takes the reign for defining retro. Featuring a durable bottom and a lightweight nylon upper for easygoing comfort,the Cortez is clean cut and can accommodate any outfit. Check out more retro kicks
here.
Originally released in 1985, the RS1 is your basic everyday sneaker. It was originally designed for runners, but has crossed over to everyday casual street wear. Constructed to be versatile, multi-functional, adaptable to any wardrobe, and the perfect addition to any outfit, the RS1 is loved by runners and avid sneaker collectors. This is is a shoe people stock up on when they are on sale, and store away when old ones get worn.
Produced in 1968, the Gazelle’s original purpose lies hidden in mystery and speculation. Its silhouette suggests that it could have begun as an indoor soccer shoe. The streamlined shape, simple styling and flat sole are topped off with the suede upper to create a classic piece of design. It made a real impact on the early hip-hop scene, is worn by b-boys today and has been adopted by skaters and indie-rockers alike.
Air Jordans are still the most popular signature sneaker, particularly amongst men. There are so many editions of this sneaker and they are all considered equally hot. The Nike Jordan is what put Nike on the map in the urban arena and crossed the line between athletic and casual sneakers.
Probably one of the world's most popular sneakers ever.
Converse offers classic design that hasn't changed in years. These kicks can be found on people of all ages and across many subcultures. You can never go wrong with a pair of Chucks.
First introduced in 1977 as a training shoe, the Samoa took game day to the streets and has become a decades-long fan favorite. The Samoa’s durability and lasting style meant it wasn’t going anywhere as its popularity grew. Known for its signature suede toe box and distinctive Trefoil tread, the Samoa is available in a wide range of colors and has the versatility to dominate any scene.
The Adidas Decade Hi is from the eighties and it's often overlooked as one of Adidas's classic gems. Found in an array of cool, and equally pukey, colors, Decade Hi's a slouchy versions of Forums. For under $30, this sneaker is a steal.
Back in 1979, the adidas Top Ten basketball sneaker made its entry into the adidas basketball line-up. Tried and tested by ten of the NBA's finest, this shoe is reborn with a clean style, and a synthetic leather upper built for comfort. Lighter and less bulkier than the Adidas Forum, those who like less to carry around, choose the Top Ten over the Forums.
