There was a time not too long ago when I would be running in the opposite direction of sneakers with a track sole and a non-rounded shape. For the past few years, all I've wanted from a pair of sneakers is something modern, hyperminimal, and flat soled. That's all changing this season with the rise of a sneaker trend that's undeniably retro and inspired by 1970s runners. After seeing these styles infiltrate the closets of celebs and fashion people over the past few months, I've officially changed my tune. While I may have deemed them dated before, it seems everyone is reaching for a pair of retro sneakers, and there's no denying how much of a luxe and expensive vibe these styles add.
Right now, there's a surge in styles that are not only retro but are also specifically inspired by old-school track-and-field sneakers much like the kind you'd find in a gym class way back when or in an episode of That '70s Show. They're arriving in simple leather and suede iterations and are defined by ultra-slim gummy soles. When it comes to specific styles defining the trend, Miu Miu is one brand driving demand with its suede Plume Sneakers beloved by Hailey Bieber and luxury fashion sourcer Gab Waller alike. Styles from Dries Van Noten and Maison Margiela are also picking up steam, the popular Adidas SL 72 is continuing to land on the sellout list, and even attractive pairs from Zara, J.Crew, and Massimo Dutti are all rivaling the aforementioned designer styles.
Ahead, shop the '70s-running-sneaker trend with an edit of the best styles on the market and see how trendsetters are already wearing them.
From Bieber to fashion people in Paris, the Miu Miu Plume Sneakers are quickly becoming the It sneakers of the moment thanks to their slim silhouette, gummy track sole, and suede finish.
These look just as good as the pair from The Row just below.
A retro pair finished with a gummy lug sole.
Thought I'd flag that these are, in fact, satin and I am, in fact, obsessed.
The color and suede accents feel undeniably "rich."
This exact pair is the blueprint for the most-wanted sneakers of the moment.
Just as effortless as Sambas but so much fresher.
Trust me—these look (and feel) super expensive in person.
I never considered green sneakers, but now, I'm convinced I need a pair.
This color combination is scratching an itch in my brain.
Saucony, is that you? The performance sneaker brand is hitting the nail on the head with this cool pair.
These laces!
I'm so thankful that Elsa Hosk put these timeless kicks back on my radar.
Rag Bone just came out with an update to its best-selling Retro Runners, this time with an even slimmer sole.
These just launched yesterday and are already causing a stir in the sneaker world.
These check every box, and they're on sale. Win!
The styling inspiration above—need I say more?
The Tokyo is the Adidas style that's going even more viral than the Samba.
The cost per wear will basically be zero.
Velvet sneakers? Tell me more.
A classic for a reason.
It's all about this ultra-thin sole.
This color is so fun.
It's the ribbon ties for me.
The definition of quiet luxury.
A Zara sellout if I've seen one.
These rival a lot of the designer pairs in this edit.
J.Crew just gets it.
The mismatched laces make these especially 2025.
