It’s admittedly been a while since I had a backpack full of books, crammed for a pop quiz, or was worried about staying in uniform (shoutout to my fellow prep school millennials). But given my age *wisdom*, it’s worth sharing a piece of advice that stands the test of time: stick to what’s classic.
Of course, as the years go on, everyone should learn, grow and evolve. But life is so much easier when you’re not trying to fit a mold that isn’t meant for you. And the same can be said for your personal style and sneaker choices. Sure, trends are fun, but nothing beats a reliable classic, and these are five favorites.
Nike Air Force 1 Low ’07
No one should be surprised by this first pick. Nike’s Air Force 1 Low has been in the game for a longgg time – 41 years to be exact – and a four-decade run is the definition of a classic. In fact, the silhouette is one of the brand’s earliest models that designers are still lining up to collaborate on. And on top of being a founding thread in Nike’s history, it’s also the brand’s best-selling sneaker to date (it’s the top-selling sneaker on StockX too). It’s a pair of choice for some of your favorite rap legends and a staple in your school cafeteria. That kind of mass adoption is rare, so, be like the Air Force 1 Low this school year: keep it simple, be the kind of friend that others can rely on, and embrace collaboration.
adidas Superstar Core Black
Nike’s not the only one with a longstanding leader in its ranks. Released back in 1969, the adidas Superstar has long cemented itself as an icon in streetwear culture. When they first dropped, athletes loved them for their on-the-court performance, and adidas was satisfied with the pair staying in its lane. It wasn’t until hip-hop pioneers Run DMC opened the brand’s eyes to the power of influence, that the pair hit mainstream. Today, the Superstar is widely considered the genesis of rap’s influence on sneaker culture, and after more than five decades of colorways and collabs, the pair has earned its placement in the HOF. So what’s the lesson? Don’t shy away from evolution. Be open to new ideas (and people), because you never know how far it can take you.
Jordan 1 Retro High OG Chicago Lost and Found
This wouldn’t be a list of all-time classics without an Air Jordan 1 High in the mix. Following its controversial 1985 debut, the pair has gone on to revolutionize sneaker culture forever. Its silhouette, that Chicago palette, and the iconic player rocking them were unlike anything the world had seen before. And despite the NBA fines and criticism, MJ and Nike were steadfast in their design. They saw the vision, and boy has it paid off. Now 38 years and hundreds of colorways later, the Jordan 1 High has remained a crowned jewel for sneaker collectors around the world. Want a successful school year? Take some inspo from the AJ1: you’re just getting started with building your legacy, so make a strong entrance and make it count.
Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star 70 Hi
Another high top made it to the round up, and the Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star 70 Hi puts the OG in original – we’re talking over a century of timelessness. Nearly 50 years after its release, the Chuck Taylor All-Star Hi was spotted on some of the biggest rockers and cultural rebels in the 60s and 70s like The Ramones, Kurt Cobain, and Sid Vicious. A sneaker doesn’t stay in rotation for over 100 years without fully embracing the freedom of self-expression. This school year, be a little more like the iconic All-Star Hi: be authentic to who you are, and don’t be afraid to break the rules for a little bit of good trouble.
Vans Vault Classic Slip-On
Following in the footsteps (pun intended) of the popular All-Star Hi, Van’s dropped the checkerboard iteration of their Slip-On in 1980. It quickly gained popularity with niche, counter-culture communities like skaters and surfers for its comfort and no-fuss approach to design. Plus, the canvas construction was ripe for DIY customizations, making it a sneaker of choice for those who wanted to spotlight their creativity and rebellious spirit. Decades later, the effortless pair has proved it can stand the test of time, so kick off this school year with a Vans Slip-On reminder: it’s way cooler and takes way less effort to just be you.
