Onitsuka Tiger's story has everything from Post-war ambition, athletic inspiration and a retro revival. Their most popular model is the Mexico 66, which remains a streetwear and everyday wear staple.

Swipe to learn how the Mexico 66 got its stripes.

Humble Beginnings

In post-war Japan, business Kihachiro Onitsuka set out to inspire the youth through his belief that sports could change lives. After an initial failed launch of a strap sandal, Onitsuka pivoted to creating a shoe that supported the way basketball players start and stop. The OK Basketball Shoe launched in 1951 and the Japanese high school team that first wore them, won a championship that year.

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Keeping it Crafty

During the 1960s, Onitsuka Tiger won awards for their designs and quickly gained global respect. Helpful feedback from elite athletes of the time shaped every detail from grip to flexibility, cementing them a serious contender in performance footwear.

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Where Does Mexico Come In?

The birth of the Mexico 66 began with early training shoes that introduced the quintessential tiger stripes. This spicy Latin version was first designed for elite runners participating in the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Gamesthat prioritized lightness, durability and a specific visual identity that set them apart.

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Supersize Me

Next came the deluxe edition, which elevated the Mexico 66 silhouette with painstaking Japanese craftsmanship. Premium materials, hand-finished pieces and artisanal construction transformed a sports classic into luxury wear.

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Global Style

From the Tokyo streets to Paris cafés, the Mexico 66 has achieved icon status among creatives and fashion lovers. With clean lines and cool colors, the Mexico 66 can be paired with skirts, jeans, plaid, and endless other styles and cuts.

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Lasting Impact

Asics purchased and folded in the Onitsuka Tiger brand back in 1977, it was revived in 2002. The Mexico 66 silhouette has since received hundreds of color variations and brand collaborations. Few sneakers carry such a history and as much staying power as the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66.

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