Teens and adolescents across the nation have kissed their summers goodbye as the 2010-11 school year begins. The sight of big yellow buses congesting morning traffic can serve as a reminder of the excitement of going back to school.
For my generation, the first day of school was the chance to learn about a new curriculum, catch up with old friends and make a fashion statement.
One of the best ways to make a big impression on the first day was to arrive at school with a pair of stylish sneakers.
Here are the top back-to-school shoes of my era.
–amir shaw
Air Jordans Number 4
Arguably the most creatively designed Air Jordans of all time, the Air Jordans number 4 took Nike and the Air Jordan brand to another level. Teens who were able to wear these shoes would get major respect on the first day. But unfortunately, they also had to protect themeslves from thieves who wanted to take them.
Cortez Nikes AKA Dope Man Nikes or Eazy E Nikes
Created in the 1970s, these shoes made a comeback in 1991. They were pretty cheap (retailed at $39) and could be worn with almost anything. But Cortez Nikes were made for leisure. If you did a lot of running or jumping, they would fall apart in about three weeks.
Huarache Nikes
Around 1992, the Huarche Nikes were all about flash. Because of the elaborate colors, you really had to think about what you were going to wear with them. But the color schemes didn’t deter those who owned them. They were $90 shoes, so your peers didn’t care if you wore teal and yellow shoes with a red and gold T-shirt.?
Stan Smith adidas
Adidas made noise with their Kobe Bryant signature shoe in 1996 and their Street Ball shoe line, but the Stan Smith and Shell Toes have stood the test of time. The Stan Smith was a cool back-to-school shoe that was subtle and respectable.
New Balance
In the late-1990s, New Balance became an alternative for students who wanted to buck the Nike takeover. They came in various colors and (like Cortez Nikes) they could be worn with almost any outfit.
Honorable Mention: Timberlands, Reebok Classics, Hi Tek Boots, Nike Air Flights, Chuck Taylors. What were your most memorable back-to-school sneakers?
