Bata: Tennis shoe
Almost every Indian child has grown up wearing Bata shoes to school. This is why most people still think that it is an Indian brand, whereas it is actually a Czech brand, which is currently headquartered in Switzerland.
However, Bata’s connection with India dates back to the 1920-30s when the brand produced its first shoe at a factory in Batanagar, near Kolkata. It is at this factory that the iconic Bata Tennis shoe was born with an idea to provide every Indian student with a comfortable yet affordable pair of shoes.
Charles Pignal, Group Heritage Director, Bata Group says, “The Bata Tennis shoes represent not only the history of Bata but also its values. For the first time, we had created a shoe that was popular, democratic and timelessly stylish. It is an elegant, simple piece of design.”
The Bata Tennis shoe has been introduced with various collaborations, owing to its huge popularity. Earlier this year, Bata launched a limited collection exclusively dedicated to the popular Star Wars series. bata.com
Nike: Cortez
This is the first track shoe designed by Nike and the first shoe with a full-length midsole made from dual-density foam.
Cortez was introduced during the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, which is one of the main reasons why it gained immense popularity amongst the general public. The heritage sneaker reflected Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman’s liking for minimalistic yet high-performance and comfortable running footwear.
However, despite starting off as a sports shoe, Cortez soon positioned itself as one of the most fashionable sneakers in the lifestyle segment and is still going strong.
Over the years, the sneaker has been revamped several times, but the classic design featuring the iconic swoosh still remains the core of this Nike product. nike.com
Converse: Chuck Taylor All Stars
Chuck Taylor All Stars were redesigned in the early 20th century, after former American basketball player Chuck Taylor asked the brand to manufacture a shoe offering both comfort and support.
A rubber toe-cap connecting the sole to the canvas upper and a loose lining for flexibility are some of the features of the shoe.
Even though it is touted as a legendary canvas basketball shoe, Chuck Taylor All Stars by Converse is widely preferred among artists and fashion focused individuals.
Recently, Converse reinterpreted this heritage shoe by presenting the new Converse Mountain Club line that uses a special technology to keep the shoes waterproof. converse.com
Reebok: Classic Leather
It was with the launch of Reebok Classic Leather in 1983 that Reebok rapidly grew and became a leading name in the sporting goods industry. What set this running shoe apart was how it was crafted using garment leather.
Even though it was aimed at fashion conscious men and women, the Reebok Classic is actually a formidable running shoe featuring Bi-Density Shock Protection System and air vents for breathability and comfort of the wearer.
A unique take on this heritage line was seen recently, when Reebok unveiled the “Alter The Icons” collection that blends the elements of the orginal Classic leather with the latest trends. shop4reebok.com
Onitsuka Tiger: Mexico 66
Crafted in 1966, Onitsuka Tiger’s iconic Mexico 66 made its debut at the 1968 Olympic Games pre-trials in Mexico. The heritage model came in premium white leather, and stitched with a red and blue ASICS Stripe pattern.
Last year saw the release of MEXICO 66 SD, that gives a new take on the classic shoe. Based on the concept of “Technology for Lifestyle”, this new range revives MEXICO 66’s distinctive thin sole element, and offers improved performance.
The updated collection also has better cushioning and fit with the addition of OrthoLite that provides great resilience in the insole. onitsukatiger.com
Fila: Mashburn
Fila’s Mashburn line was introduced in 1995-96. A part of Fila’s heritage collection, Mashburn’s retro sneakers are now known as the MB. The range takes its inspiration from Jamal Mashburn, a yesteryear American basketball player.
FILA MB has always done well on the hardwood floor of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and is therefore the preferred basketball footwear even today.
With FILA MB, it is the ’90s retro appeal and the striking colourways that makes it is the preferred choice amongst fashion brands. fila.co.in
