Finding sneakers that are both fashionable and comfortable, and versatile enough to complement almost any outfit, is like discovering a wardrobe treasure. Many people swear by the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 as this perfect shoe, even naming it as a top pick in guides for the best white sneakers. But can a single sneaker truly live up to all the praise?
To find out, I wore Mexico 66s daily for a week, walking nearly 20 miles around New York City. My conclusion? The hype is absolutely justified. These sneakers are instantly comfortable, incredibly flattering, and the kind of timeless staple that will undoubtedly become a regular part of my wardrobe for years to come. Here are three reasons why I’ve joined the many fans of the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66.
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 white sneakers with red and blue stripes on a white background
Comfort From Day One
Unlike most new shoes that require a painful break-in period, my Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 sneakers were comfortable right out of the box. Thanks to their supple leather uppers and thin, flexible soles, there was no stiffness or discomfort from the first wear. (I ordered my usual size, and the fit was perfect. They are available in standard men’s and women’s sizes, and Onitsuka Tiger’s website offers a size guide with measuring instructions if you’re unsure.)
The lightweight construction of the Mexico 66 is remarkable; you can easily bend the entire shoe, allowing them to move naturally with your foot. Yet, they are surprisingly durable. A Wirecutter senior editor confirmed that her pair, purchased in 2020, is still in excellent condition with regular wear.
The sole’s flexibility significantly enhances the comfort, bending with your foot’s movement as you walk. To test this, I wore the Mexico 66 sneakers every day for a week, walking approximately 20 miles while running errands, walking my dog, and going to dinner. Throughout the week, my feet remained cool, supported, and blister-free. This experience mirrors the findings of testers for our guide to white sneakers, who also praised the Mexico 66 for their instant comfort and softness, noting the absence of any pinching or rubbing. One tester even mentioned forgetting she was wearing them.
These sneakers feature a unique, perforated insole that enhances breathability, making them wearable with or without socks. I prefer to slip into my Mexico 66s without lacing them daily, thanks to the convenient pull-on back tabs. I often wear them with ultra-light, no-show socks, such as the Stance pair recommended in our guide to the best no-show socks. In warmer weather, the sockless option is a great advantage. If you choose to go without socks, the back tabs and lightly padded tongues help prevent rubbing and blisters.
Mexico 66s also have lightly cushioned, contoured footbeds and molded arches. I was surprised that such thin, lightweight shoes could offer such stability and support, remaining comfortable even during active eight-hour stretches.
Universally Flattering and Incredibly Versatile
Loved by fashion-conscious individuals across different age groups and styles, Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 sneakers are true style chameleons. They effortlessly bridge the gap between athletic shoes and ballet flats, making them suitable for diverse settings and outfits.
The tapered shape of these sneakers creates a flattering, slim profile. As noted by a Wirecutter senior editor, “They’re perfect for my narrow feet.” They are also particularly appealing for those with larger feet, as they avoid adding bulk. Remarkably, they complement almost every clothing style.
To test their versatility, I paired my Mexico 66s with a wide range of outfits. They looked fantastic with all types of pants: cuffed straight jeans and cropped flares for a casual look, cigarette pants for a chic, Audrey Hepburn-inspired vibe, flowing palazzo pants for an effortlessly stylish statement, and of course, leggings for a classic, comfortable combination. With shorts or a miniskirt, they appeared fun and sporty yet still refined. Paired with flowy dresses and skirts, they added a relaxed and easygoing touch.
For maximum versatility, the classic white-on-white Mexico 66 is an excellent choice. However, they are also available in numerous other colors to suit various preferences and seasons.
The most iconic color combination is undoubtedly the yellow and black version, famously worn by Bruce Lee and Beatrix Kiddo. While a matching jumpsuit and sword are optional, the style statement is undeniable. I opted for a white pair with red and blue stripes, embracing the shoe’s sporty heritage. And I’m already considering other colorways for wear throughout much of the year, though I suspect these sneakers might not be ideal for a harsh New York City winter.
Iconic and Timeless Appeal
With their sporty design and sleek silhouette, Mexico 66s possess both a charming retro vibe and a perpetually modern appeal. Investing in them feels like a secure style choice with lasting power. These slender leather sneakers were originally created in Japan as running shoes for athletes, debuting at the 1966 Olympic pre-trials in Mexico City, which inspired the “Mexico 66” name.
They were the first shoes to feature the now-iconic tiger-stripe design: two elegant horizontal stripes along the sides, intersected by vertical stripes that integrate with the laces, enhancing fit and stability. These stripes remain a signature element on nearly every shoe from Onitsuka Tiger and its parent company, ASICS.
Textural details, such as leather overlays (including the signature tiger stripes), sawtooth edging, and suede panels, add to the design interest of the Mexico 66. These sneakers are classic, but far from basic.
The distinctive design achieved icon status in 1978 when Bruce Lee wore yellow-and-black tiger-striped Onitsukas (similar to Mexico 66s) in his final film, Game of Death. In 2003, the brand surged into a new generation’s pop culture consciousness with Uma Thurman’s Beatrix Kiddo character wearing similar Onitsuka Tiger sneakers in Kill Bill: Volume 1. (While often mistaken for Mexico 66s, the shoes she wore were actually Onitsuka Tai Chis, a sleeker and more expensive model.)
In recent years, Onitsuka Tiger continues to feel fresh and relevant. Mexico 66s have been seen on numerous celebrities and influencers, including Bella Hadid and Emma Watson, as well as many enthusiastic, though less famous, Wirecutter staff members.
This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.
