Sneakers

Paul watched him work the laces on his Adidas, then cleared his throat. “We can take a minute if you need it.”

Randy didn’t look up. “For what?”

Paul gave a small nod.

Randy glanced down, then back to the shoe, pulling the laces snug.

“I’m good,” he said. “Go ahead.”

Paul paused, adjusted his fly, then raised the camera. “Alright… works for me.” 

Image 1 - Unknown Model (tying his Adidas)

Sneakers fall right into that athlete—or what we’d now call athleisure—look. Sporty, casual, easy. The Brits call them trainers, which honestly sounds cooler. Back then it could be anything from Converse high tops to basic running shoes, usually paired with tube socks and whatever else a guy happened to have on… or not have on.

Image 2 - Harvey Catrell (stepping up with white tank in hand)

Image 3 - Jimmy Pike (out for a stroll)

There’s something about that combination that always makes me smile. A guy can be otherwise completely bare, but still laced up and ready to go. It’s a little backwards—shoes are usually the first thing off or the last thing on—but that’s exactly what makes it work. If anything, the sneakers somehow make him look even more exposed.

Image 4 - Gabe (patio daydream)

Image 5 - Terry Marker (must've been a wild party)

Image 6 - Vito Cesari (hirsute and Converse)

Image 7 - Steve Chambers (blue terry cloth t and enormous...high tops)

Image 8 - Sean Patrick (hiking in Chuck's)

Image 9 - Leo Ford (blue polo and Nike's)

I think that’s why photographers liked it. It keeps one foot in the everyday world while everything else drifts into something more playful. For me, it’s also a bit nostalgic. I had those same shoes as a kid in the 70s—just a much smaller version of what these guys are working with.

Image 10 - Christopher Lance (mattress and Reeboks)

Input?

ID for image 1? Or anyone have a better version that isn't so faded?  Any other history or commentary on the others?