The Diadora Equipe trainer is an OG runner that was first introduced in the 1970s as a multi-purpose running shoe.
If there was one footwear brand that every young Casual kid wanting a piece of in the 1980s, it was Diadora. The
elitist appeal of the Borg Elite couldn't have come at a better time as far as the Casual subculture was concerned. It looked great with a pair of cords. It was made in Italy. It was extremely sought after and cost an absolute fortune if you converted it into modern day money. The continental connection probably had a lot to do with the Casual's love affair with the Italian sportswear brand but the fact is they were simply some of the best trainers about at the time. State of the art trainer technology with performance at the very core, little did Diadora know that their toe toggery would end up on the terraces of Turf Moor. It didn't just stop at tennis trainers though. OG runners like the Diadora Equipe trainer are just as important when we look back at Diadora's connection to the whole Casual scene.
Above: The Diadora Equipe Canvas trainer in white/blue denim now available from 80s Casual Classics.
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. If you look back at the original designs of these retro runners from the 1970s they're all pretty similar in appearance. The same goes for the Diadora Equipe trainer which first came on the scene in 1975. A multi-purpose running shoe, the Equipe couldn't scream 70s runner more if it tried. Featuring added tread to the heel to absorb impact on the ankle, the Equipe was Diadora's first real intro into the running trainer world. The running connection would later lead to sponsorship deals with the likes of Seb Coe in 1984 and one of the most sought after running trainers of the 1980s. 
Above: The Diadora Equipe Canvas Stone Wash trainer in cloud stream now available from 80s Casual Classics. The celebrated 70s runner now arrives at 80s Casual Classics in a duo of OG inspired colourways. Dropping as part of the brand's prestigious heritage collection, the Equipe features a mixture of canvas & suede uppers with the addition of suede overlays. An EVA midsole ensures all day comfort with the Equipe's signature gum heel tread to the rear for that classic 70s runner aesthetic. Finished off with a speed lacing system and Diadora Heritage branding to the tongue, the Equipe is a must have trainer style for the coming warmer months. Shop the very latest Diadora trainer releases now at 80s Casual Classics via the links.
