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January 29, 2016
50th Anniversary of the 'Onitsuka Tiger Stripes,' Original Model Reissued | Onitsuka Tiger
Onitsuka Tiger
Onitsuka Tiger Stripes Turn 50: Original Model Reissued
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the “Onitsuka Tiger Stripes,” the trademark of the Japanese global brand Onitsuka Tiger. Fitting for this anniversary year, the “MEXICO DELEGATION” model, worn by the Japanese delegation at the Mexico City Games, is being reissued in its original colors from that era.
Photographs by JAMANDFIXText by KUROMIYA YuzuEdit by ANDO Sara (OPENERS)
New Colors Abound for the Classic MEXICO 66 Model
The “Onitsuka Tiger Stripes,” a familiar and iconic mark of the brand, trace their origins back to before the 1960 Rome Olympics. Aiming to create a design that would instantly identify Onitsuka shoes, the brand introduced delegation shoes inspired by the Japanese flag for the Rome Games, followed by the UI line for the 1964 Tokyo Games. In 1966, the “Limber,” one of the first models to feature the Onitsuka Tiger Stripes, was released.
Even before 1960, the goal was to create a distinctive design that would immediately identify Onitsuka shoes.
Delegation shoes inspired by the Japanese flag were introduced with the concept, "A design that says Japan."
The UI line, drawing from past designs, was unveiled.
The current “Onitsuka Tiger Stripes” were developed for the 1968 Mexico City Games. A design proposal selected from an in-house competition was further refined, resulting in the speedy and modern design we see today. After these twists and turns, the “Onitsuka Tiger Stripes” were perfected, boasting a stylish and beautiful aesthetic. Even after 50 years, they remain overwhelmingly popular both domestically and internationally as a highly fashionable item.
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the “Limber,” one of the first shoes to feature the Onitsuka Tiger Stripes, it is being reissued as the shoe worn by the Japanese delegation at the Mexico City Games. In addition to the original red and white colorway, four other colors will be available, including tricolor and blue and white.
From the catalog of the Mexico City Olympics era
Additionally, the standard “MEXICO 66” model, known for its slim silhouette and thin sole, will be available in a rich lineup of new colors. These include white-based and Indian ink (deep navy) based options, as well as items crafted with attention to material.
Furthermore, the “MEXICO 66 SAECULI,” an evolution of the “MEXICO 66,” is also being introduced. Its key feature is the improved midsole cushioning and a more fashionable form. It will be available in two colorways: black x dark gray and slight white x off-white.
MEXICO 66
MEXICO 66 SAECULI
Since its inception, Onitsuka Tiger has produced a variety of sports shoes, loved by many athletes. The brand will undoubtedly continue to pursue comfort and demonstrate further evolution.
MEXICO DELEGATION
Price: ¥12,000 (excluding tax)
MEXICO 66
Price: ¥12,000 (excluding tax)
MEXICO 66 SAECULI
Price: ¥12,000 (excluding tax)