Keen to follow in the footsteps of the Samba revival, many sportswear brands are now digging into the archives and reworking styles from the past, tapping into a retro, nostalgic aesthetic. The origin stories of these throwback styles are typically rooted in sports—from the Puma Speedcat, which was designed for Formula One drivers, to the Adidas Gazelle, which was first crafted for training and handball. If you are looking to expand your collection beyond Sambas this year, then one of the key sneaker trends for 2025 to consider is athletic track-and-field sneakers.
“Seventies-inspired sneakers are yet again taking hold of the fashion set,” Kristen Nichols wrote in her sneaker trend report. “This time around, however, I am seeing a surge in styles that you would normally find in a track-and-field setting.” Many have a varsity feel with swooshes, stripes, and patches in an Ivy League color palette, and their streamlined silhouettes have a fuss-free charm.
Our favorite styles include Miu Miu’s nylon burgundy-and-cream runners, Adidas SL 72s (beloved by the likes of Bella Hadid and Emily Ratajkowski), and Nike Cortezes realized in a rich, mossy suede. Keep reading to shop our edit of the best track-and-field sneaks to wear for your morning jog and everything else on your calendar.
Shop Track-and-Field Sneakers
J.Crew
Rec Sneakers in Leather
The red, white, and blue color combo makes these an all-American classic.
The SL 72s are a best-selling style for Adidas right now.
Miu Miu
Colorblock Nylon Tech Runner Sneakers
Trust Miu Miu to master this look.
TOTEME
The Sport Leather-Trimmed Suede and Twill Sneakers
Toteme has elevated these sporty sneakers.
LOEWE
Flow Logo-Appliquéd Shell, Leather and Suede Sneakers
Retro sneakers featured heavily in Loewe’s S/S 25 show.
ADIDAS
Country Japan Suede Sneakers
The Adidas Country was first produced in 1973.
ADIDAS
SL 72 RS Leather and Suede-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers
A beautiful color palette.
NIKE
Cortez SE Leather-Trimmed Brushed-Suede Sneakers
The Nike Cortez was the first track shoe style released by Nike in 1972, and it has been gaining popularity over the last year. Lean into the ’70s mood with this suede iteration.
FP Collection
Aces Tennis Shoes
A classic, retro silhouette.
rag & bone
Retro Runner Sneaker
Rag & Bone creates these runners in several colors, but this muted style has our hearts.
Jeffrey Campbell
Toned Sneaker
Massimo Dutti
Leather Trainers With Contrast Pieces
For those who want a less sporty take.
Vince
Oasis Runner Sneaker
This almond-and-toffee color combination is beautiful.
The Row
Owen Leather & Mesh Sneaker
The Row’s take on the look.
Asics
Skyhand OG Sneakers
For those who want to lean into the track-and-field spirit.
DRIES VAN NOTEN
Leather-Trimmed Suede Sneakers
These are also available in black and white.
