If you're a fan of sneakers with a bit of a throwback vibe, you're probably no stranger to Onitsuka Tiger. The Japanese brand has cornered the market on retro sportswear cool, with iconic, sleek silhouettes like the Mexico 66 that feel both timeless and totally current.
Their blend of vintage looks, amazing colorways, and comfortable design make them a go-to for just about anyone. But if your collection of Tigers is getting full or you're just curious about what else is out there, we've got you covered. Here are 19 similar shoe brands that capture that same retro-cool aesthetic.
New Balance has mastered the art of the retro runner, and iconic models like the 574 and 990 series are proof. Known for incredible comfort and high-quality materials, their sneakers nail the vintage athletic look while feeling modern enough for today's street style. They share Onitsuka Tiger's focus on heritage designs but often put a greater emphasis on cushioned, 'dad shoe' comfort.
Shop now at newbalance.com
When it comes to retro footwear, Adidas Originals is a giant. Classics like the Samba, Gazelle, and Superstar have a nostalgic appeal that's impossible to ignore. Like Onitsuka Tiger, their designs are rooted in an authentic sports history. The biggest difference is that Adidas leans into iconic, bold branding with its three stripes, while Onitsuka Tiger tends to have a more streamlined, minimal vibe.
Shop now at adidas.com/originals
If you love the sporty retro look, Puma is a must-see. Models like the Puma Suede and Clyde have been streetwear staples for decades, offering a cool, laid-back vibe with a history in basketball and skate culture. Compared to Onitsuka Tiger’s sleek, runner-inspired silhouettes, Puma often features slightly chunkier designs and softer suede materials that give it a distinct '70s and '80s feel.
Shop now at us.puma.com
For a more casual, European take on retro footwear, turn to Superga. This Italian brand is famous for its classic 2750 canvas sneaker, a timeless design that offers effortless style. While Onitsuka Tiger is rooted in athletic history, Superga channels a relaxed, Mediterranean vibe. If you love clean lines and versatile canvas shoes, Superga delivers that same vintage feel in a simpler package.
Shop now at superga-usa.com
Keds specializes in effortlessly simple and classic sneakers, with its Champion model being a footwear icon for over a century. Offering a clean, preppy, and slightly nostalgic aesthetic, Keds are the perfect easy-wearing alternative. They have a similar minimalist vibe to some Onitsuka Tiger styles but swap the sporty leather for breezy canvas, making them an affordable staple for warmer weather outings.
Shop now at keds.com
Reebok’s Classic line is a treasure trove of retro gems. With iconic silhouettes like the Club C 85 and the Classic Leather, the brand celebrates '80s fitness and court style. These sneakers offer clean leather uppers and a comfortable feel that vibes well with the vintage athletic look perfected by Onitsuka Tiger. The key difference is Reebok's British heritage and tendency toward chunkier, court-inspired soles.
Shop now at reebok.com
Rooted in California skate culture, Vans offers a different kind of retro-cool. Styles like the Old Skool and Authentic have a timeless, rebellious feel that has defined laid-back street style for generations. While Onitsuka Tiger draws from running heritage, Vans gives you a vintage look with a bit more edge. Both are incredibly versatile, but Vans brings a distinct skater aesthetic to the party.
Shop now at vans.com
Best known for its performance running shoes, Saucony's Originals lineup is filled with retro-inspired sneakers like the Jazz and Shadow. These styles capture the colorful, functional aesthetic of '80s and '90s runners, much like Onitsuka Tiger. Saucony’s sneakers often feature more visible cushioning technology and mixed materials like suede and nylon, giving them a slightly more technical and sporty look.
Shop now at saucony.com
This Finnish sportswear brand has been making athletic shoes for over a century and has mastered the retro-runner aesthetic. Models like the Fusion 2.0 and Aria 95 feature unique color blocking and premium materials like suede and leather. Karhu shares Onitsuka Tiger’s authentic athletic heritage but stands out with its unique 'M' logo and a distinct Nordic design sensibility that feels both outdoorsy and cool.
Shop now at karhu.com
Perhaps the most iconic retro sneaker of all time, the Converse Chuck Taylor is a cultural phenomenon. Its simple canvas construction and timeless silhouette create a vintage vibe that never goes out of style. Chucks offer a more punk and indie alternative to Onitsuka Tiger's athletic aesthetic, perfect for when you want a versatile, casual classic with a rebellious spirit.
Shop now at converse.com
While known for cutting-edge innovation, Nike has a massive back catalog of incredible retro designs. The Cortez, with its sleek shape, feels very similar to an Onitsuka Tiger Corsair (fun fact: the two have a shared history). Other classics like the Daybreak and Waffle Racer offer a similar lightweight, low-profile fit. Nike’s retro line gives you that same vintage feel, often with the addition of visible Air technology.
Shop now at nike.com
For polished retro style beyond the world of track shoes, Clarks Originals is the answer. Icons like the Desert Boot and the Wallabee offer a more smart-casual aesthetic with a clear vintage influence. While not traditional sneakers, they share Onitsuka Tiger’s commitment to premium materials and timeless design. Choose Clarks when you want to channel a bit of '60s Mod cool with soft suede and crepe soles.
Shop now at clarksusa.com
Fila captures the loud, confident spirit of '90s streetwear. Known for bold branding and chunky silhouettes like the famous Disruptor, the brand offers a statement-making take on retro style. Where Onitsuka Tiger is sleek and subtle, Fila is eye-catching and unapologetic. It’s the perfect choice if you want to lean fully into the throwback trend with a more aggressive, Fila-branded aesthetic.
Shop now at fila.com
Stepping into the luxury space, Lanvin delivers high-fashion sneakers with a distinct retro inspiration. Pieces like the Curb sneaker take cues from '90s skate shoes but elevate them with exaggerated proportions and luxe materials. Though it sits at a much higher price point, Lanvin shares a common creative ground with Onitsuka Tiger by reinterpreting vintage styles for a modern, fashion-forward audience.
Shop now at lanvin.com
If you love retro sneakers but want a sustainable option, look no further than Veja. The brand’s clean, minimalist designs are crafted from eco-friendly materials like wild rubber and recycled plastic. Models such as the V-10 and Esplar have a vintage court shoe feel that aligns perfectly with a classic aesthetic. It’s the retro style you love, but with a transparent, Earth-friendly mission at its core.
Shop now at veja-store.com
This British heritage brand creates sneakers that feel pulled right out of a vintage P.E. class. Gola's classics, like the Harrier, feature slim profiles, suede trims, and a distinct lack of flashy tech - much like Onitsuka Tiger's core styles. They're all about timeless, terrace-inspired sportswear that focuses on simple lines and quality, making them a great substitute for those who love understated, retro kicks.
Shop now at gola.co.uk
With its Danish design roots, Hummel offers a sporty and minimalist take on retro footwear. Known for the chevron logo on its side panels, sneakers like the Slimmer Stadil have a distinct '70s and '80s indoor soccer shoe vibe. They feel very similar to the Onitsuka Tiger in build quality and narrow silhouette but bring a unique Scandinavian simplicity to their color combinations and design.
Shop now at hummel.com
Tretorn is a Swedish brand famous for its classic Nylite model, a staple in vintage tennis fashion since the 1960s. These canvas sneakers have an easygoing, preppy personality that feels timeless and comfortable. Compared to Onitsuka Tiger’s leather running shoes, Tretorn provides a more relaxed, canvas-based alternative for achieving that simple and clean retro look, perfect for everyday casual wear.
Shop now at tretorn.com
Based in Stockholm, Eytys takes inspiration from retro silhouettes and adds a bold, contemporary twist. The brand is known for its signature chunky, platform soles that elevate classic designs into statement pieces. While Onitsuka Tiger stays true to original athletic profiles, Eytys reinterprets them with a fashion-forward, oversized sensibility beloved by streetwear fans everywhere.
Shop now at eytys.com
At Apart Style, we're obsessed with curating the best in fashion, beauty, and jewelry to help you discover new brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, style, and uniqueness. When you make a purchase through our links, Apart Style may earn a commission - which helps support our small team, and allows us to continue bringing you the best in online style brands.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our full brand directory or check out our curated brand guides to find your new favorite thing.
