TL;DR: What you need to know
- It comes down to three favourites in retro-tech: New Balance, Asics and Axel Arigato.
- Retro-tech combines a retro-runner look with contemporary wearing comfort.
- You choose based on vibe: casual comfort, sporty energy or sharp minimal.
- Styling works best with clean basics, loose-fitting denim and neutral tones.
- Use the comparison to quickly see which style matches your outfits best.
Trends and what you need to know about retro-tech sneakers
Retro-tech is all about contrast: a retro silhouette that feels like now. Think of a streamlined running shape from the nineties, combined with a comfort-focused fit and a timeless colour palette. This gives you sneakers you can wear every day, without them ever getting loud. The strength lies in the simplicity and in the fact that you can easily mix them into your everyday wardrobe.
New Balance
At New Balance, the retro-tech vibe often revolves around a casual, everyday look that instantly works with denim and sweatshirts. The shape feels recognisably vintage, the finish radiates calm. Great if you want a sneaker you’ll wear from Monday to Sunday, with the emphasis on all-round comfort and an easy-going look.
Asics
Asics is the go-to if you like a sporty energy in your outfit. The lines look dynamic and give your look a bit more punch. It feels a touch more technical, and that makes it fun under athleisure and streetstyle. Ideal if you’re after a sneaker that looks active yet stays highly wearable in everyday life.
Axel Arigato
At Axel Arigato you’ll often find a sharper, more minimalist take on retro-tech. The result is clean and modern with subtle nods to vintage running. Perfect if you’re a fan of minimal outfits and like to play with silhouettes, for instance under straight trousers, cropped denim or a refined knit.
Comparison of retro-tech styles
To make your choice easier, below you can see how the three brands relate to one another in terms of feel and styling. Use this as a quick guide, then read the advice underneath to figure out which direction best suits your style.
Styling & combinations
- Start with the basics: choose a neutral sneaker as your anchor. Picture yourself wearing a white T-shirt, straight indigo denim and a navy overshirt. With a retro-tech sneaker this instantly gets a modern twist.
- Play with proportions. Think of loose-fitting trousers with a cropped length so the sneaker stays visible. The retro-runner shape keeps your look airy and balanced.
- Work in layers. Combine a light knit under a utility jacket or bomber. The retro-tech sneaker effortlessly picks up that mix of casual and functional.
- Choose your colour strategy. Go monochrome if you like calm, or add one colour accent, for instance in your socks or top. That way the sneaker stays the star without overpowering.
- Make it smart-casual. Wear your retro-tech sneaker under straight trousers with a crisp shirt. The contrast between tailored and sporty looks fresh and considered.
- Mind your socks and hem. A clean sock in the same tone as your sneaker visually lengthens your leg. Roll your hem up subtly so the sneaker’s silhouette stands out.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: What does retro-tech actually mean when it comes to sneakers?
A: Retro-tech combines a vintage running profile with contemporary wearability. You get a recognisable retro shape that feels modern, making it super versatile.
Q2: How do I choose between New Balance, Asics and Axel Arigato?
**A: **Go with your sense of style. Do you like relaxed and all-round? Then look at New Balance. Want sporty energy in your look? Then Asics fits. For clean and minimal, Axel Arigato is the logical choice.
Q3: Does a retro-tech sneaker work under tailored trousers?
A: Absolutely. Choose a streamlined silhouette and keep your colour choice calm. Combine with straight trousers and a smart knit or shirt for a modern smart-casual look.
Q4: Which colours work best for everyday use?
A: Neutral tones like white, off-white, grey and navy are timeless and easy to style. You can always add a subtle accent through socks or accessories.
Retro-tech sneakers give your outfits a smart upgrade. Whether you fall for the relaxed vibe of New Balance, the sporty energy of Asics or the clean elegance of Axel Arigato, the trend is made to be worn often and styled easily.
Choose what fits your daily rhythm and experiment with layers, proportions and neutral tones. Want personal advice? At Winkelstraat we’re happy to think along with you so you find a pair you’ll really wear often.