Onitsuka Tiger Ultimate 81 Throwback Running Shoes

These days, a lot of folks are dropping serious coin on their running shoes... top-of-the-line models such as the ASICS GEL-Kinsei 2 retail for $180, and are only available at runnning specialty shops. Even those who go for a moderately-priced running shoe, like the best-selling ASICS 2140 (available at online running shoe stores) are looking at a $90-$100 price tag.

With that much dough tied up in your running shoe investment, it might seem silly to wear them when not running, as the average running shoe's cushioning and performance materials break down after 350-550 miles. With this in mind, it would actually be cost-effective to buy a pair of casual sneakers for the streets and everyday wear. One increasingly popular option is to wear stylish throwback shoes - reissues of running shoes that were once state-of-the-art, yet now serve as a stylish everyday sneaker or fashion statement. One of the hippest of these is the Onitsuka Tiger Ultimate 81. As the name suggests, its genesis was as a techincal running shoe, introduced in 1981. As with all things Eighties, it has seen a monstrous revival, with an array of new fashion colors introduced every Spring and Fall, ranging from subdued to outrageous. Some are released as limited editions, and can induce a frenzy among collectors and enthusiasts, resulting in skyrocketing prices in aftermarkets and online auctions.