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A few years ago, Adidas Samba was inevitable, as modest soccer shoes took over social media and the streets. When we were in Peak Samba in the past, there are still some clues to this trend, which is where sneaker culture is in 2025. Slim sneakers are still popular for beginners, with low profile silhouettes (like the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66, or even Adidas Taekwondo).

Broadly speaking, generally speaking, retro sneakers have a moment. Regardless of the attractiveness of affordable eternal shoes is a “recession indicator,” looking roughly at the American city sidewalk confirms an appetite for old-fashioned, useless sneakers.

Retro sneakers are also practical. Many people are designed for sports like running and basketball, and while more technical options have replaced them, most retro sneakers can still be used comfortably in walking and in the gym.

Whether you want to jump on the trend or look for options that go against the trend, we'll be putting together some of the best retro sneakers, from vintage Nike to radar brands.

First launched in 1977, the LD-1000 is enjoying a revival, while short-lived, and the Slim Silhouette is perfect for the current trend. It features Nike's classic waffle soles and co-founder Bill Bowerman invented it with actual waffles. It comes in both male and female sizes.

Regardless of what handball is, Adidas’ handball party sneakers have become a more low-key alternative to Adidas’s more general style. They have a silhouette, a cross between the gazelle and the samba island, and there are universal sizes.

If you haven't noticed that F1 is now big, Puma's Speedcat is designed as a racer's shoes. This is gradually getting off the track since its stylish (even if somewhat unexpected) styling elasticity.

While New Balance is known for its chunky daddy shoes, the 471 will surely be slimmer and smoother in the brand’s Retro Sneakers deep rewards. While it looks like it was pulled straight out of the vault, the 471 is a new type inspired by classic 1970s sneakers, not a copy.

Slim, 1970s-inspired sneakers are particularly stylish at the moment, but if you prefer the more 1980s style, the Reebok's Club cc 85 sneakers are a tried and tested classic. As the name suggests, this sneaker was launched in 1985 as a tennis shoe and was in trouble due to its comfort and style anywhere.

If your taste is skewed but vintage, Everlane's 1980s tennis shoes bring extra branding, but with a distinctive, distinct panel. The upper is made of full-grain leather from the Leather Working Group.

Despite this name, Coach 80 was born in 1978, which may prove its speed. The brand itself was founded in 1898 and remains one of the leading running shoe companies. Of course, most runners won't bring 80-shot kidnapping to marathons, but they're a stylish choice for everyday wear. They are available for both male and female sizes.

There is no mention of the Chuck Taylor shoes from Converse, and the list of classic sneakers is complete. High or low top, the choice is ultimately up to you. But we think the Chuck 70 has upgraded materials and highlight rubber, which is the way to go.

Want to go beyond checks and stripes? Gola is a Radar brand founded in England in 1905 and is famous for making badminton shoes. We’re not sure why, but the more sport the more stylish the shoes are.