Nike Waffle Trainer 2

Waffle Trainer 2

Back in the 1970s, innovative Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman created the iconic Waffle sole. More than 50 years later, it remains a key feature on the brand’s footwear, giving shoes both old and new a classy, vintage aesthetic. One of these is the Nike Waffle Trainer 2 – a retro running shoe originally released in 1974.

The 2021 rerelease of the Waffle Trainer 2 stays true to the 70s design, with a smooth nylon upper and plush suede panelling. Alongside this, there is a large leather swoosh on each flank and a Nike-branded heel tab in the same high-quality material. The softly padded tongue displays exposed foam along its top edge behind a vintage Nike patch for a classic look.

Underfoot, the foam wedge midsole has been updated to provide modern-day levels of comfort, while the rubber outsole sports the familiar Waffle tread pattern of the original shoe. Amongst the square-shaped grip pads, which are organised into alternating rows for multi-surface traction, is the patent number assigned to the sole when it was first created.

With its vintage look and updated materials, the Nike Waffle Trainer 2 delivers the comfort of a modern lifestyle sneaker and the timeless style of a 70s athletic trainer in a powerful celebration of the brand’s running heritage.