The Trendiest Individuals Concur: The Leading Trainer Styles of 2026 Will Be Immersed in Nostalgia.

      If there's one footwear trend that has subtly dominated in recent years, it’s retro trainers. Ranging from sleek '70s-inspired running shoes to vintage tennis styles and classic terrace designs, fashion enthusiasts seem to be gravitating towards trainers that appear as though they emerged directly from the archives. A significant factor behind the cult popularity of retro trainers is their adaptability. These shoes pair effortlessly with maxi skirts and dresses just as easily as they do with classic denim, providing a straightforward method to elevate everyday outfits with a modern twist. It’s no surprise that brands like adidas, Reebok, and New Balance have been revisiting their heritage collections, reintroducing classic styles alongside updated iterations in new colours and materials.

      While we’re not short on options for retro sneakers, which ones should you invest in? I’ve done the legwork for you. Below is my curated selection of the best retro trainers to consider now, from beloved classics to new takes. Honestly, I’m having difficulty choosing a favorite.

      Shop the Best Retro Trainers for Women:

      **adidas Originals**

      *Brown Italia 60s Sneakers*

      Adidas features prominently on this list—it’s the first brand that springs to mind when thinking of retro trainers. The Italia 60s is one of the brand's less prominent archival styles, originally inspired by low-profile athletic shoes from the late 1950s and early '60s. While there are fewer colour options than some of adidas' more mainstream styles, you can still find elegant brown, black, and navy variants depending on the retailer. Sizes range from US 5-11 if you’re shopping through Ssense.

      **adidas Originals**

      *Pink Samba OG Sneakers*

      No roundup of retro trainers would be complete without the adidas Samba. Initially designed as an indoor football shoe in the 1950s, it has become one of the brand's most iconic silhouettes due to its sleek shape, contrasting T-toe, and signature three-stripe detailing. While classic white and black versions remain the most recognized, seasonal hues—such as this soft pink option—add a slightly fresher vibe for spring. Availability of sizes and colours varies by retailer, but inventory is typically abundant. Just keep in mind that the slim fit can feel narrow, making them less comfortable for wider feet.

      Few trainers embody the retro aesthetic quite like the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66. Introduced in the 1960s and named after the year Mexico hosted the Olympic Games, its design features a lightweight build, slender profile, and distinctive crossed side stripes. Colourways range from classic neutrals to more vibrant vintage-inspired combinations, with the yellow version becoming a coveted favorite in recent years. It’s hard to find a style icon who doesn't own a pair of these.

      **AUTRY**

      *Medalist Low Metallic Leather Sneakers*

      Autry has gained traction as a favorite among fashion insiders in recent seasons, and the Medalist is undoubtedly its most recognizable model. Inspired by classic American tennis shoes from the 1980s, this design has a slightly bulkier sole, giving it a more substantial feel than slimmer retro trainers (though not everyone may prefer this). It mainly features neutral colour palettes, with some metallic accents or variations. Sizes start at UK 2.5.

      The Asics Skyhand OG is, in my view, quite underrated. This trainer draws from the brand’s extensive archive of indoor sports footwear, originally created for handball courts in the early 1990s. The outcome is a streamlined silhouette with subtle retro touches, including a suede upper, classic ASICS side stripes, and a low rubber sole for a sleek appearance. I particularly love the dolphin grey and pepper colourway, but they also come in neutral whites and browns, as well as a fun yellow option. Sizes start at UK 2.5 and go up to 13. The only downside is that the all-suede construction requires a bit more maintenance (especially in wet conditions).

      **PUMA**

      *Speedcat OG Sneakers Unisex*

      The Puma Speedcat has deep motorsport roots, initially inspired by the slim racing shoes worn by Formula 1 drivers. Recently resurfacing as a retro sneaker favorite, the Speedcat offers a distinctly vintage look compared to more modern styles. There’s a good variety of colour options: bold all-over shades like blue and red, or classic white and black with a contrasting stripe. Sizes range from UK 3-10.5, and the slim shape tends to be narrow, so those with wider feet may wish to size up.

      Another archival adidas model enjoying renewed interest is the SL 72 RS. Launched in 1972 as a lightweight running shoe, it retains its sporty retro charm with a nylon upper, suede overlays, and a slim, slightly wedge-shaped sole. It’s perfect if you prefer the look of Sambas or Gazelles but want something less common. Colour combinations range from chic khaki and white to browns