The Best Retro Sneakers for Men Right Now
From the Adidas Samba to the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66, these are the retro sneakers worth owning in 2026 — what each one does best and how to wear it.
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Retro sneakers never really left, but the lineup has changed. The chunky basketball shoes of a few years ago have given way to slimmer terrace and runner silhouettes, and the brands keep reissuing their archives with better materials than the originals ever had.
We picked seven pairs that cover every kind of wardrobe, from tailored trousers to weekend denim. Each pick below tells you who it's for, what it costs and where to buy it. Prices are approximate and move with colorways and sales, so check the retailer before you buy.
Adidas Samba OG
The Samba started as an indoor soccer shoe in the 1950s and has become the default low-profile sneaker for men who dress a little sharper. The gum sole, suede T-toe and slim leather upper look as right with pleated trousers as with straight-leg jeans.
Why we like it
- Slim profile works with tailoring
- Gum sole ages well
- Easy to find in your size
Keep in mind
- Everyone has a pair
- Flat, thin sole — not for all-day walking
| Upper | Leather, suede overlay |
| Sole | Gum rubber |
| Fit | Runs slightly narrow |
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66
The Mexico 66 is a 1966 design from the Japanese brand that later became Asics, and its paper-thin sole and crossed stripes make it the lightest-looking shoe on this list. It's the pick for summer tailoring, linen and cropped trousers.
Why we like it
- Very light
- Distinctive without being loud
- Great with shorts
Keep in mind
- Minimal cushioning
- Narrow toe box
| Upper | Leather or suede |
| Sole | Thin rubber |
| Fit | Consider half a size up |
Nike Cortez
Nike's first big running shoe, from 1972. The wedge sole and swoosh are pure Americana, and the leather version reads cleaner than most modern Nikes.
Why we like it
- Iconic shape
- Comfortable wedge sole
- Affordable
Keep in mind
- Leather creases quickly
- Narrow fit
| Upper | Leather or nylon |
| Sole | Foam wedge + rubber |
| Fit | Runs narrow |
Converse Chuck 70
Not the $60 Chuck Taylor — the Chuck 70 uses heavier canvas, a thicker glossy sidewall and a cushioned insole modeled on the 1970s version. It's the upgrade most men don't know exists.
Why we like it
- Better build than standard Chucks
- Works year-round
- Ages well when beaten up
Keep in mind
- Little arch support
- Runs half a size big
| Upper | Heavyweight canvas |
| Sole | Vulcanized rubber |
| Fit | Go half a size down |
Reebok Club C 85
A 1985 tennis shoe with a clean leather upper and a tiny logo. If you want the minimalist white-sneaker look without spending designer money, this is the one.
Why we like it
- Clean, minimal look
- Soft leather
- Frequently on sale
Keep in mind
- White leather needs care
- Toe box is roomy for narrow feet
Vans Old Skool
The skate shoe with the side stripe has been in production since 1977 and costs less than a dinner out. Black-and-white is the version to get.
Why we like it
- Cheapest pick on the list
- Grippy waffle sole
- Goes with everything casual
Keep in mind
- Not dressy
- Wears out faster than leather shoes
Puma Suede Classic
Puma's 1968 Suede is a hip-hop and b-boy icon with a softer, rounder shape than the Samba. Deep colors like navy, burgundy and forest green do the most for a fall wardrobe.
Why we like it
- Rich colors
- Soft suede
- Comfortable from day one
Keep in mind
- Suede needs protector spray
- Not for rain
How to choose the right retro sneaker
Start with your trousers, not the shoe. Slim or cropped trousers want a slim sneaker (Samba, Mexico 66, Cortez). Wider, straight-leg or pleated trousers need visual weight at the bottom, which is where the Puma Suede Classic and Chuck 70 earn their place.
Leather or suede. Leather is easier to clean and works year-round. Suede looks richer in fall and winter but needs a protector spray and stays out of the rain.
Think in pairs, not colors. A white leather pair and a dark suede pair cover 90% of a casual wardrobe. Add a third only when you know which of the two you reach for less.
What to wear them with
Retro sneakers have become the default shoe for smart-casual dressing, which is why they pair well with outerwear with some edge. A slim Samba under dark denim and a leather jacket is about as classic as fall outfits get. On the wrist, the same logic applies: a steel sports watch like the ones in our luxury dive watch guide looks right with sneakers in a way a dress watch doesn't. If chunky is more your speed this season, see how the 90s revival is playing out in boots and cargo pants too.
Sizing notes
| Sneaker | Fit | Our advice |
|---|---|---|
| Adidas Samba OG | Narrow | True to size; half up for wide feet |
| Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 | Narrow | Half a size up |
| Nike Cortez | Narrow | True to size; half up for wide feet |
| Converse Chuck 70 | Big | Half a size down |
| Reebok Club C 85 | Roomy | True to size |
| Vans Old Skool | True | True to size |
| Puma Suede Classic | True | True to size |
These are also the shoes worth keeping clean for the daily commute — pair them with the phone mount and wireless CarPlay adapter from our car accessories guide and the drive to work gets a little easier too.
For more on building a wardrobe around a few great pieces, browse the rest of our Style section.
FAQ
What is the most popular retro sneaker right now?
The Adidas Samba is the retro sneaker you'll see most in 2026, especially for slim, low-profile outfits. The Puma Suede Classic is the pick if you want something with a bit more visual weight.
Are retro sneakers good for walking all day?
Most retro sneakers use thin, flat soles built to 1960s–1980s standards. For long days on your feet, the Reebok Club C 85 offers more cushioning than a Samba or Mexico 66.
Can you wear retro sneakers with a suit?
Yes, with a slim, low-profile pair in white or black, like the Samba or Club C 85, and trousers with little to no break. Avoid chunky basketball shoes with tailoring.
How do I keep white leather sneakers clean?
Wipe them after each wear with a damp cloth, use a dedicated sneaker cleaner once a month and store them with cedar shoe trees to hold the shape.
