A Step Ahead: The Pony Express is An OG Runner From 1979
The Pony Express trainer is an OG runner that was originally introduced in the 1970s by the 'Product of New York' athletic brand & now arrives at its spiritual home.
It seems like we'll forever be talking about the running boom of the 1970s. With a new found love for running, and all the retro styles from the golden era of tight shorts & moustaches, it was the retro runners of the 1970s that would pave the way for the innovative sole technology of the 1980s. Nike introduced the Boston in 1973. New Balance introduced the 320 in 1976. ASICS introduced the Jayhawk in 1974. PUMA introduced the 9190 in 1970 & adidas released the SL72 in 1972. There was also a new kid on the block from the 'Big Apple' that was certainly no 'one trick pony'. An acronym for 'Product of New York', Pony was a new player on the performance running scene in the 1970s. Introducing a range of innovative running trainers like the Express, the New York born brand took the athletic world by storm with state of the art trainer tech that cleverly tapped into the whole running boom of the 1970s.
Above: The Pony Express trainer in white/electric blue now available from 80s Casual Classics.
SHOP NOW
Since its inception back in 1972 Pony has sponsored everyone from Muhammed Ali to Pele, as well as some of the top NBA players of the 1980s. If you're an avid fan of retro football shirts then you'll also probably know of Pony's football connection a bit closer to home, kit sponsoring the likes of Tottenham, West Ham, Huddersfield & Hearts throughout the 1990s. Following on from the success of legendary running shoes like the Express & the Racer from the late 1970s, the 1980s saw Pony become one of the top athletic brands worldwide. Reaching $800 million in sales by the mid 1980s, Pony's dominance on the speedy NBA courts reached its pinnacle with classic high top silhouettes like the M-100.
Above: The Pony Express trainer in sky blue/white now available from 80s Casual Classics.
SHOP NOW
Originally released in 1979, the Pony Express trainer was well ahead of the curve as far as running trainer innovation was concerned. Featuring lightweight cushioned nylon uppers with reinforced suede at points of stress, the design was all about breathability and support that prevented heat build up to minimize fatigue. Shock absorption studs were applied to the sole to provide greater stability and extra wear resistance. The ball area of the foot was also reinforced with a special rubber compound for added traction & resistance.
Above: The Pony Express trainer in white/black/gold now available from 80s Casual Classics.
SHOP NOW
Released as part of an archive release the 'Product of New York' athletic brand now arrives at 80s Casual Classics. Reviving the late 70s retro runner, the Pony Express trainer features textile & synthetic uppers with Pony's signature branding to the sidewalls, tongue & heel. Other highlights include an EVA midsole and a studded rubber outsole underfoot for the ultimate in retro kerb appeal. Shop the very last Pony trainer releases now at 80s Casual Classics via the links.
