The Story of the Classic:
K-Swiss was founded in 1966 when two Swiss brothers, Art and Ernie Brunner, moved to California to create a footwear brand focused on Tennis Shoes. As avid skiers and Tennis Shoes players, the brothers took inspiration from leather ski boots to create a court shoe that supported the aggressive side-to-side movements of Tennis Shoes. The result was the K-Swiss Classic, the first all-leather Tennis Shoes shoe manufactured in Los Angeles, California. The shoe utilized an innovative 5 stripe d-ring lacing system for lateral support, a unique 3 piece toe construction, and a replaceable rubber cupsole that featured herringbone brick tread for traction and durability. The K-Swiss Classic quickly gained worldwide acclaim and became a style statement both on and off the court. More than 50 years later the K-Swiss Classic is an icon of the sneaker industry and still influences the look and feel of our brand to this day. Born out of innovation, the Classic has evolved into a statement of timeless simple design, an expression of our passion for quality and craftsmanship, and an enduring symbol of our authentic Tennis Shoes heritage.
Hidden wedge:
Although the original Classic is still a statement of innovation and quality it has been over 50 years since it was designed and engineered. In that time there have been improvements in design, engineering and manufacturing techniques; technological advancements in foams, rubber, and materials that all provide better comfort, quality and performance over what was available when the Classic was first made. The Classic 66 Upstep has been updated for women's by adding a hidden wedge in the sockliner. Without altering the appearance of the original shoes, we have made this version of the classic with a new hidden detail in the sockliner that not only gives additional height to wearer but also gives a different look on by showing more ankle in the collar area. It is also a continuation of the commitment to innovation, quality and performance that founded our company and has allowed K-Swiss to endure for over 50 years.
