7 Shoes You Forgot You Owned From The ’70s And 7 That Are Never Going Away
Ah, the ’70s—a decade where shoes weren’t just footwear, they were a statement. Whether you were strutting down the street or boogieing under a disco ball, your shoes said everything about who you were (and how far you could dance in heels).
The other day, I unearthed a long-lost stash of ’70s shoes buried deep in my closet, and let me tell you—they’re not just shoes, they’re time travelers. From towering platform boots that defied gravity to clogs that clomped through every season, each pair had a wild tale to tell. Remember Earth Shoes with their “negative heel”? Or jelly sandals that squeaked with every step?
These soles soaked up the spirit of the ’70s and somehow still carry a bit of that funky magic today.
So, slip into something nostalgic and take a walk with me through 14 unforgettable pairs of ’70s shoes—you might just find your old favorites still have some groove left in them!
1. Earth Shoes
Picture this: you’re stepping out with a stride that feels more like a backward lean, courtesy of the iconic Earth Shoes. These quirky kicks were the brainchild of a Danish yoga instructor who believed aligning our spines was the way forward—or backward, as the case may be. The secret sauce was the negative heel, tilting your foot in a way that made walking look like an Olympic sport for confused penguins.
Honestly, while they promised postural benefits, what they really delivered was a conversation starter. Touted as the shoe of the future, they were a staple for those who believed in both style and substance. And while some stumbled through parking lots, others swore by their newfound zen.
In today’s world, these shoes are a nostalgic nod to a time when fashion wasn’t just about looking good—it was about feeling good too. Earth Shoes remind us that sometimes, the oddest trends are the ones we hold closest to our hearts, forever etched in our fashion psyche.
2. Wooden Clogs
Clomp, clomp, clomp—just the sound of wooden clogs calls to mind the echo of footsteps on linoleum floors. These shoes, part Dutch, part counter-culture, were the rebellious footwear choice of the ’70s. Wooden soles meant every step was a statement, whether you were making your way to a protest or a party.
They weren’t the sneakiest shoes, but who needed to sneak when you had nothing to hide? With their vibrant painted designs, they were as much a canvas for self-expression as any tie-dye shirt. And while comfort wasn’t exactly their forte, the style was undeniably iconic.
Wooden clogs have a way of sticking around, much like that catchy song you can’t quite shake. Their timeless appeal continues to tap dance its way into fashion scenes, proving that sometimes, the hardest soles can make the softest statements.
3. Platform Sandals
If shoes could scream ‘party’, platform sandals would be the ones doing it. These towering titans of the footwear world were the go-to for anyone wanting to get a head above the disco competition. The higher the platform, the closer to disco heaven—especially if they sparkled with every step.
Strutting into Studio 54 required the right footwear, and platform sandals delivered in style. Metallic finishes and glitter made each step shimmer, ensuring you never went unnoticed on the dance floor. Comfort? Not really a priority when you’re busy grooving to the beat.
Today, they’re more than just a blast from the past. They’re a testament to the enduring appeal of daring fashion choices. Platform sandals remind us that sometimes, the best way to stand out is by standing tall—literally.
4. Wallabees
In the realm of shoes that do everything yet nothing specific, Wallabees reign supreme. Looking part moccasin, part magic carpet, these suede wonders somehow matched everything and nothing all at once. Perfect for the indecisive dresser, they were comfort incarnate.
Despite their odd appearance, Wallabees were the shoes of choice for those who appreciated a laid-back lifestyle. Their unique silhouette and cushioned sole made them the ultimate in casual chic. Throw them on, and you were ready for anything—well, maybe not a fashion show, but definitely a chill night out.
Even today, Wallabees walk the fine line between retro and relevant, proving that sometimes the most unassuming styles have the longest staying power. In a world full of bold statements, they remind us that subtlety is its own kind of strength.
5. Jelly Sandals
Ah, jelly sandals—a love affair with plastic that was as much about style as it was about nostalgia. These translucent treasures clung to your feet with a sticky sweetness that was both endearing and slightly uncomfortable. Perfect for a summer day or a rainy one, they were truly versatile.
Jelly sandals were the pre-‘80s childhood fashion starter pack, the playful precursor to more refined footwear choices. Their fun colors and unique texture made them irresistible, even if they did leave strange tan lines and the occasional blister.
In a nod to playful fashion freedom, jelly sandals have slipped back into our hearts and wardrobes. They remind us that sometimes, the best style is the one that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
6. Suede Desert Boots
Suede desert boots: the shoes for those who wanted to look like they’d just stepped out of a Kerouac novel. These boots were the calling card for the introspective rebel, always slightly scuffed, as if they’d seen every dusty road and read every dusty book.
Brown, beige, or camel were the shades of choice, each more intentionally worn-in than the last. They were the shoes that said, “I own more vinyl than you,” without uttering a word. Plus, they were practical enough for any adventure, whether real or imagined.
Today, suede desert boots continue to kick up the dust, straddling the line between bohemian and classic. They remind us that the journey is just as important as the destination—and that the right footwear can make all the difference.
7. Waffle Stompers
Waffle stompers—sounds more like a breakfast food than a shoe, but these were the boots that made you feel rugged even if you were just heading to the local record store. With aggressive treads, they were designed for terrain as tough as your teenage spirit.
These boots weren’t just a fashion statement; they were a badge of honor for the adventurous soul, ready to tackle the wilds of suburbia. Their chunky design and sturdy build meant they could stomp through anything in their path, from puddles to protests.
In our modern era, waffle stompers remind us that sometimes, the path less traveled is the one worth taking. They’re a testament to the timeless appeal of sturdy footwear that refuses to back down.
8. Converse Chuck Taylors
Rarely has a shoe transcended trends like the Converse Chuck Taylors. Whether on the feet of basketball legends or punk rockers, these sneakers have woven themselves into the fabric of just about every subculture and every decade.
Introduced as a basketball shoe, their canvas and rubber design were simple, yet their impact was profound. Chucks were the shoes that you could wear until they were practically falling apart, each scuff and tear adding to their story.
Today, they’re a staple not just in closets but in history, proving that sometimes the simplest designs are the most enduring. Chucks are a testament to the power of versatility in fashion, reminding us that true style knows no bounds.
9. Adidas Superstars
Rocking shell toes like no other, Adidas Superstars took the sneaker world by storm. Initially designed for the basketball courts, these shoes quickly became synonymous with street style and hip-hop culture.
With their sturdy design and unmistakable toe cap, Superstars were both functional and fashionable, making them a favorite among athletes and trendsetters alike. They were the shoes that said you meant business, whether you were dunking or dancing.
Today, Adidas Superstars continue to strut their stuff, proving that true classics never fade. They’re a reminder that style is about making a statement, and sometimes that statement is as simple as a well-placed stripe.
10. Birkenstocks
Birkenstocks have long been the unofficial footwear of those who march to the beat of their own drum. With their cork soles and adjustable straps, they were as much about comfort as they were about making a statement.
In the ’70s, these sandals found a home among those who believed in the power of peace, love, and naturally drying laundry. They were a staple for the free-spirited individual, offering a snug fit for both foot and soul.
Today, Birkenstocks have undergone a fashion-forward transformation, yet their essence remains the same. They’re a perfect reminder that true comfort and style go hand in hand—or foot in sandal, as the case may be.
11. Vans Slip-Ons
From skate parks to school halls, Vans Slip-Ons have always been the go-to for those who value simplicity and spontaneity. With no laces to tie, they were the perfect choice for those eager to hit the pavement without a second thought.
The checkerboard design, in particular, became an icon, symbolizing a laid-back lifestyle where the only thing that mattered was the ride. They were the shoes that said you were part of a culture, a movement, a moment.
Even today, Vans Slip-Ons continue to be a symbol of youthful rebellion and carefree style. They remind us that sometimes, the best adventures start with a simple step forward.
12. Timberland Boots
Timberland boots have walked a fine line between workwear essential and style icon. Known for their rugged durability and signature yellow color, they were boots that could handle anything life threw at them.
From construction sites to catwalks, Timberlands found their footing in diverse settings. They were the boots that could be dressed up or down, worn by rappers and workers alike, bridging gaps in the most unexpected ways.
Today, Timberland boots continue to stomp through fashion history, a testament to the enduring appeal of practicality meeting style. They’re a reminder that true icons never really go out of style, they just get better with age.
13. Nike Cortez
Sleek and retro, Nike Cortez brought style to the track field and beyond. Favored by athletes and fashionistas alike, their iconic design was both functional and fierce.
Released during the running boom of the ’70s, these shoes were built for speed and comfort. Their clean lines and bold colors made them irresistible, both on and off the track. And yes, Forrest Gump did his fair share of running in them.
Today, Nike Cortez remain a staple in sneaker culture, reminding us that sometimes the best way to make strides is with a classic at your feet. They’re proof that true originals never fade away, they just keep running strong.
14. Dr. Martens
Dr. Martens boots have long been the footwear of choice for the rebels, the dreamers, and the doers. With their sturdy leather construction and iconic yellow stitching, they were built to last and to be noticed.
From punk rock stages to the streets of London, Docs have stomped their way through subcultures, each step echoing with attitude. They were the boots that said you weren’t afraid to stand out, to make noise, to be heard.
Today, Dr. Martens continue to march to their own beat, as beloved as they are bold. They remind us that sometimes, the best way to make a statement is to lace up and step out.