Onitsuka Tiger ‘Mexico’ Sneakers | Size 12

This vintage pair of original Onitsuka Tigers is dressed in white leather with red and blue logos across the uppers and remains in deadstock condition, complete with the original Onitsuka Tiger bag. The design notably features “Mexico” lettering in reference to the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City, perforated insoles stamped “Made in Japan,” and a one-piece toe. The tongues are tagged “Onitsuka Tiger,” and the pair features perforated insoles that say MADE IN JAPAN.

Founded in Japan in 1949, Onitsuka Tiger quickly established itself as a pioneering force in athletic footwear. The brand’s designs played a pivotal role in the early history of Nike, as Blue Ribbon Sports, cofounded in 1964 by Phil Knight, a University of Oregon runner, and his coach Bill Bowerman, began by importing and distributing Onitsuka Tiger sneakers in the United States. This partnership laid the foundation for Nike’s eventual formation, marking Onitsuka Tiger as an important chapter in the origin story of one of the world’s most influential sportswear companies.