Best 80s-Inspired Sneakers You Can Still Cop Today

If you've ever caught yourself nodding a little too hard to an '80s synthwave track, daydreaming about Miami Vice suits or imagining yourself in a neon-lit arcade while sipping a Tab, chances are you're also into the style of that golden era. But while perms and leg warmers might be best left to the past, ‘80s sneakers? Oh, they’re more alive than ever. In fact, some of the most iconic kicks ever made dropped in that decade—and the best part is, many are still up for grabs today.

Let’s talk chunky soles, bold color blocking, wild design choices, and unapologetic flair. These sneakers weren’t made to be subtle—they were made to stand out. And the best news? They fit just as well into today’s streetwear-heavy wardrobe as they did with acid-wash jeans in 1987.

So if you’re building a look that shouts retro but make it modern, keep reading. We’ve rounded up the best 80s-inspired sneakers you can still rock today, and yep, they go perfectly with your favorite denim jacket (like the ones over at Newretro.Net—just sayin').

NewRetro VHS T-120 – Where Nostalgia Meets Now

Let’s kick it off with a pair that’s not just inspired by the ‘80s—it practically screams it.

The NewRetro VHS T-120 takes its design cues from the aesthetic of vintage VHS cassette tapes. (You know, those black plastic bricks you had to rewind before returning to Blockbuster.) With a slick leather and mesh build, padded collar, and hi-top silhouette, this sneaker walks the line between collectible and wearable.

• VHS cassette graphics? Check.

• That chunky retro profile? Oh yeah.

• Price tag that doesn’t make you cry? $109 on sale.

If Marty McFly and Robocop teamed up to design a sneaker, this would be it. Plus, they go perfectly with other retro staples—like Newretro.Net's leather jackets and bold sunglasses that look straight out of an ‘80s action flick.

Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG – The Sneaker That Started It All

Would it really be an ‘80s sneaker list without the Air Jordan 1? Launched in 1985, banned by the NBA, and immortalized by sneakerheads and hip-hop artists alike, this shoe is cultural currency.

The 2025 reimagined drop keeps the classic paneled leather, Nike Air tongue, and of course, that iconic Wings logo on the ankle strap. Retailing around $180, it’s not cheap—but it’s not just a sneaker, it’s a piece of history.

And the best part? You don’t have to be dunking from the free throw line to wear them. Style them with relaxed jeans, a white tee, and throw on a retro watch from Newretro.Net and you’ve nailed the modern-day Maverick look.

Nike Dunk Low Retro – Still Dunking After All These Years

Also birthed in ‘85 (it was a good year), the Nike Dunk Low has gone from basketball courts to skate parks to streetwear grails. With its fat swoosh, nylon tongue, and a growing library of colorways, this low-top classic feels right at home under baggy cargos or tapered jeans.

New colorways are constantly dropping, usually at $125 retail, but hunting older ones on StockX is half the fun. Dunks are like Pokémon for sneakerheads—you just gotta catch ‘em all.

If you’ve got a pair of Dunks and a denim jacket that looks like it’s been through a few basement punk shows (or just came from Newretro.Net), congratulations—you’ve mastered the 80s/2020s crossover fit.

New Balance 550 – Dad Shoes, But Make It Hot

If you had told someone in 1989 that New Balance would become one of the coolest brands on the block by 2025, they might’ve laughed through their mullet. But here we are.

The New Balance 550 brings serious court vibes with perforated leather, clean lines, and that chunky "N" logo. Retailing from $85-110 depending on the colorway, it’s a surprisingly accessible way to get into the retro sneaker scene.

They’re perfect if you want the old-school look without the flashiness of a Jordan or Dunk. Think subtle flex. Pair them with straight-leg jeans and maybe a leather bomber from—you guessed it—Newretro.Net.

Adidas Forum 84 High – Strap In for Style

Throw it way back with the Adidas Forum 84 High, born in 1984 and still crushing it today. Between the removable ankle strap, vintage-washed leather, and an aged-looking midsole, this shoe is like stepping into a time machine (minus the plutonium).

The 2024 “Cloud White/Trace Royal” edition is especially clean. It’s got enough retro flair to turn heads, but the versatility to go with just about any outfit. Priced around $130, it’s a worthy addition to any sneaker rotation.

Pro tip: These pair weirdly well with retro track jackets or a good pair of tapered trousers. Want to go full synthwave? Throw on a pair of mirrored sunglasses from Newretro.Net and hit the streets.

Reebok Club C 85 Vintage – Low-Key 80s Vibes

Here’s one for the minimalist. While many 80s sneakers were about bold designs and wild colors, the Club C 85 kept it clean. A crisp white leather upper, EVA midsole, and that soft terry cloth lining—this one whispers retro instead of shouting it.

And honestly? That’s its charm. Retailing at around $90, the Club C 85 is your go-to for low-profile ‘80s cool. Perfect for when you want to nod to the decade without screaming YO MTV RAPS! from across the street.

Throw them on with cuffed jeans and a casual jacket, and you’ve got a look that works whether you’re hitting the arcade or the office.

Puma Slipstream Lo Retro – Quietly Loud

You might not hear as much hype about the Puma Slipstream Lo Retro, but that’s exactly what makes them cool. Originally a late-80s basketball shoe, these low-tops have a clean leather upper, classic Formstrip design, and anti-shock midsole. Translation: you’ll look good and feel good.

At $120, they’re a bit of a sleeper pick in the retro world, but they’ve got that authentic vintage vibe that’s hard to fake. Style tip: they look killer with relaxed trousers and a tucked-in graphic tee.

And hey, if that tee happens to be from Newretro.Net, we’re not mad about it.