In the world of footwear, few shoes have made a significant impact, such as the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66. Known for its timeless design and enduring appeal, this shoe has carved out a substantial place in the history of footwear. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 and explore its influence on fashion and pop culture. We will trace the journey of this iconic shoe from its inception in 1966 to its resurgence, highlighting its unique features, design philosophy, and cultural significance.
Early Days of Onitsuka Tiger
Onitsuka Tiger, a Japanese sports footwear brand, was founded in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka. The company's early focus was creating sports shoes for various activities, including basketball and running. Onitsuka was driven by the aspiration to improve national morale after the war through sports, leading to the creation of innovative sports shoes.
The first successful shoe, inspired by octopus suction cups for grip, was a basketball sneaker named "the Octopus Shoe." This groundbreaking design set the stage for Onitsuka Tiger's innovative approach to sports footwear.
In 1977, Onitsuka Co., GTO Co., and JELENK Co. merged to form "ASICS Corporation," a general sporting goods company. This merger marked a significant milestone in the brand's evolution, bringing together the strengths of three companies to form a more comprehensive and powerful entity. Today, under the umbrella of the ASICS company, we find the ASICS and Onitsuka Tiger brands. The Onitsuka Tiger brand continues to thrive, with the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 being one of the most iconic and popular products under the brand.
The Birth of Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66
The Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 was first developed as the "LIMBER UP Kawa BK" in 1966 and used in Olympic pre-trials. The shoe was designed for runners and worn by the Japanese national team during the 1968 Olympics. This was the first shoe to feature the trademark stripes that would be a staple in future Onitsuka Tiger and Asics shoes.
The shoe was a testament to Onitsuka Tiger's commitment to innovation and performance, with the stripes serving as a unique design feature that set it apart from other sports shoes of the time. In 2001, the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 saw a resurgence in popularity. During this period, the shoe was officially named "Mexico 66," commemorating its debut in 1966 at the Olympic pre-trials in Mexico City.
The Impact of Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 on Fashion and Pop Culture
The Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 has had a significant impact on fashion trends and pop culture. Known for its classic design and bold colorways, the Mexico 66 has been worn by various celebrities and influencers, contributing to its popularity and fashion-forward reputation.
One of the most notable pop culture moments featuring the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 was in Bruce Lee's 1978 film "Game of Death," where Lee sported a pair of yellow and black Mexico 66 shoes. Uma Thurman later paid homage to this iconic outfit in Quentin Tarantino's "Kill Bill," further solidifying the shoe's cultural significance.
Over recent years, the resurgence of the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 has been driven by a combination of factors, including the shoe's iconic design, its enduring appeal, and the growing interest in vintage and retro fashion. The shoe's unique design, pop cultural significance, and celebrity endorsements have led to a new resurgence, making it one of the most popular shoes worldwide.
How Does The Onitsuka Tiger Fit?
Onitsuka Tiger shoes are designed to fit true to size. It is recommended that you stick with your standard Nike shoe size. However, if you prefer a tighter or looser fit, you can opt-in to go up or down a half size. You can also refer to our size charts on our product pages for a more thorough breakdown to find your perfect pair.
The Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of sneaker and fashion enthusiasts. Its appeal and influence on fashion trends have made it a beloved sneaker for many around the world. So, whether you're a sneaker collector, a fashion enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a great design, the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 is a shoe you need to add to your closet.
