Onitsuka Tiger, a brand with a rich heritage in the sneaker world, has consistently produced iconic footwear since its inception in 1949. From its humble beginnings in Japan, Onitsuka Tiger has gained worldwide acclaim among sneaker aficionados and fashion enthusiasts alike. Here are eight of the very best Onitsuka Tiger sneakers that have left an indelible mark on the industry:

1. Mexico 66: No list of Onitsuka Tiger’s finest would be complete without the Mexico 66. Debuted in 1966, these sneakers were designed for the Olympic trials for the 1968 Games in Mexico City. They are perhaps the brand’s most recognizable model with their classic silhouette and signature side stripes.

2. Corsair: The Corsair was introduced in the early ’70s and became extremely popular for its comfort and style. It was originally called the ‘Cortez’, but after a naming dispute, it was reborn as the Corsair. This model boasts a thick, cushioned sole and a sleek design that’s stayed fashionable across decades.

3. Serrano: Inspired by track shoes from the 1970s, the Serrano carries on the tradition of lightweight performance with modern flair. Its slim profile is complemented by a spiked rubber outsole and an EVA midsole for added cushioning.

4. California 78 EX: Paying homage to classic running shoes, the California 78 EX fuses retro design with contemporary touches. Originally released to honor Onitsuka Tiger’s Californian roots in long-distance running, these sneakers feature reflector patches that improve visibility.

5. NIPPON MADE Mexico 66 Deluxe: The NIPPON MADE series represents the pinnacle of Japanese craftsmanship and quality materials. The Mexico 66 Deluxe is no exception, presenting an elevated version of their classic sneaker with premium leather and hand-stitched details.

6. GSM (Game Set Match: For those who appreciate understated style, GSM stands for Game Set Match — a nod to its tennis-inspired origins. With its low profile and suede or leather uppers, GSM models exude timeless elegance fit for both casual and sophisticated looks.

7. Tiger Corsair VIN: This vintage re-release maintains all the hallmarks of the original Corsair but adds distinctive worn-in finishes that give it a unique charm without sacrificing comfort or durability.

8. ULTIMATE 81: As one of Onitsuka Tiger’s most revered designs from their extensive catalog, the ULTIMATE 81 was initially introduced as a technical running shoe in the early ‘80s with focus on stability and lightness due to its innovative heel design (Heel-Control) and midsole cushioning with three vent holes for improved breathability.

These eight models encapsulate Onitsuka Tiger’s fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to create sneakers that not only perform exceptionally but also remain at the forefront of style trends — true classics that continue to shape sneaker culture worldwide.