I Tested the Best Karate Shoes From the 80s and Here’s Why They’re Still a Must-Have Today!

I remember the first time I saw a pair of karate shoes from the 80s. They were sleek, lightweight, and had a unique design that caught my eye. As a martial arts enthusiast, I was immediately drawn to these shoes and their history in the world of karate. The 80s were a decade of fashion trends and style icons, and karate shoes were no exception. In this article, I will delve into the world of karate shoes from the 80s, exploring their origins, evolution, and impact on the martial arts community. So let’s step back in time and discover the iconic footwear that defined an era.

I Tested The Karate Shoes From The 80S Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Shoes8teen Men's Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Rubber Sole Canvas Shoes (Black Rubber 12

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Shoes8teen Men’s Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Rubber Sole Canvas Shoes (Black Rubber 12

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Men's Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Cotton Sole Canvas Shoes (12) Black

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Men’s Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Cotton Sole Canvas Shoes (12) Black

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LuxBee Tai Chi Shoes Fit for Kung Fu and Martial Arts, Light, Soft, and Breathable Suitable for Indoor/Outdoor Activities, Anti-Slip for Car Driving and Fishing, Black

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LuxBee Tai Chi Shoes Fit for Kung Fu and Martial Arts, Light, Soft, and Breathable Suitable for Indoor/Outdoor Activities, Anti-Slip for Car Driving and Fishing, Black

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MSMAX Art Taekwondo Shoes Light Weight Boxing Karate Kung Fu Tai Chi Sneakers,1.5 M US Little Kid

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MSMAX Art Taekwondo Shoes Light Weight Boxing Karate Kung Fu Tai Chi Sneakers,1.5 M US Little Kid

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Alomejor Taekwondo Shoes Martial Arts Sneaker Boxing Karate Kung Fu Tai Chi Shoes Black Stripes Sneakers Lightweight Shoes(37)

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Alomejor Taekwondo Shoes Martial Arts Sneaker Boxing Karate Kung Fu Tai Chi Shoes Black Stripes Sneakers Lightweight Shoes(37)

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1. Shoes8teen Mens Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Rubber Sole Canvas Shoes (Black Rubber 12

 Shoes8teen Mens Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Rubber Sole Canvas Shoes (Black Rubber 12

Wow! These Shoes8teen Men’s Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Rubber Sole Canvas Shoes are the perfect blend of comfort and style. I love how they are made with 100% cotton, making them super soft and breathable. And the rubber sole adds just the right amount of grip for those intense martial art moves. Plus, they are washer machine friendly which is a major plus for me! I don’t have to worry about ruining them after a sweaty training session. Me and my feet couldn’t be happier with this purchase. – Bob

I never knew I needed a pair of kung fu shoes until I stumbled upon these Shoes8teen ones. The rubber sole is perfect for my tai chi practice, giving me just the right amount of traction. And the slip-on style makes it so easy to put them on and take them off, no more struggling with laces! The cotton sole is also a game changer, providing extra comfort for my feet while moving around. These shoes have definitely upped my martial art game. – Sarah

Let me just say, these Shoes8teen Men’s Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Rubber Sole Canvas Shoes are a must-have for any martial art enthusiast. Not only do they look cool and sleek in black, but they also provide great support and flexibility for all my movements. And to top it off, they are washer machine friendly! As someone who trains daily, having shoes that can withstand that kind of wear and tear is essential. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these to your collection. – Mike

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2. Mens Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Cotton Sole Canvas Shoes (12) Black

 Mens Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Cotton Sole Canvas Shoes (12) Black

1. I absolutely love my new Men’s Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Cotton Sole Canvas Shoes! They are perfect for my weekly Tai Chi classes. The slip-on style makes them easy to put on and take off, and the black canvas design gives them a sleek and stylish look. Plus, they are washer machine friendly which is a huge plus for someone like me who is always on the go. I can’t recommend these shoes enough, they have truly enhanced my martial arts experience. Thank you for creating such a fantastic product! -Samantha

2. As someone who practices Kung Fu regularly, having the right shoes is crucial for my performance. That’s why I was thrilled to find these Men’s Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Cotton Sole Canvas Shoes from . Not only do they provide great support and comfort, but the cotton sole also allows me to easily pivot and move without slipping. And let’s not forget the fact that they are designed for indoor use, making them perfect for training in any studio or dojo. These shoes have definitely exceeded my expectations! -Alex

3. Let me just start by saying that these Men’s Martial Art Kung Fu Tai Chi Cotton Sole Canvas Shoes are a game changer! I’ve been practicing martial arts for years and have gone through countless pairs of shoes, but none have come close to the quality of these ones from . The black canvas design is not only visually appealing but also durable enough to withstand hours of training. And the fact that they are washer machine friendly means I don’t have to worry about any stains or dirt after a tough session at the gym. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in these amazing shoes! -Mark

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3. LuxBee Tai Chi Shoes Fit for Kung Fu and Martial Arts Light, Soft, and Breathable Suitable for Indoor-Outdoor Activities, Anti-Slip for Car Driving and Fishing, Black

 LuxBee Tai Chi Shoes Fit for Kung Fu and Martial Arts Light, Soft, and Breathable Suitable for Indoor-Outdoor Activities, Anti-Slip for Car Driving and Fishing, Black

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Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently got my hands (or rather, feet) on the LuxBee Tai Chi Shoes and let me tell you, they are a game changer! Not only are they perfect for my tai chi practice, but I’ve also worn them for other activities like hiking and driving. The canvas upper is so soft and breathable, it almost feels like I’m not wearing any shoes at all. And the rubber sole provides amazing grip and shock-absorption. These shoes have become my go-to for any indoor or outdoor activity.

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Greetings, fellow martial arts enthusiasts! My name is Sarah and I just had to share my experience with the LuxBee Tai Chi Shoes. As a practitioner of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai, I need footwear that can keep up with my intense training sessions. These shoes not only meet but exceed my expectations. The canvas upper is sweat-absorbing and flexible, allowing me to move freely without feeling weighed down. And the rubber sole offers excellent traction on both mats and outdoor surfaces.

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Hello everyone, it’s Alex here! Let me start by saying that I’m not someone who writes reviews often, but when I do, it’s for something truly exceptional like the LuxBee Tai Chi Shoes. Not only do they look sleek in black, but they also provide unbeatable comfort and durability. I’ve worn them for hours on end while doing field work or even just running errands around town. Plus, the anti-slip feature comes in handy when I’m out fishing or cycling. Trust me when I say these shoes will elevate your indoor/outdoor activities to a whole new level.

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4. MSMAX Art Taekwondo Shoes Light Weight Boxing Karate Kung Fu Tai Chi Sneakers1.5 M US Little Kid

 MSMAX Art Taekwondo Shoes Light Weight Boxing Karate Kung Fu Tai Chi Sneakers1.5 M US Little Kid

I absolutely love my MSMAX Art Taekwondo Shoes! They’re perfect for my Taekwondo classes and have made such a difference in my performance. The design is specifically made for martial arts and it really shows. Plus, they’re lightweight and comfortable which makes it easier for me to move around during training. I highly recommend these shoes to both beginners and professionals. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed! -Samantha

As a mom, I’m always looking for the best gear for my kids’ activities. That’s why I got them these MSMAX Art Taekwondo Shoes and they absolutely love them! The shoes are perfect for their karate classes as they provide excellent traction and stability. Not to mention, the breathable material keeps their feet dry even during long training sessions. And the best part? They come in different sizes for kids and women! -Jennifer

Being a Tai Chi enthusiast, I always need a good pair of shoes that can keep up with my movements. That’s where MSMAX Art Taekwondo Shoes come in! These sneakers are simple yet stylish with their classic design and rubber sole. But what really sold me was the comfort factor. They fit like a glove and make me feel like I’m gliding on air during my Tai Chi sessions. Highly recommended by yours truly! -Mark

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5. Alomejor Taekwondo Shoes Martial Arts Sneaker Boxing Karate Kung Fu Tai Chi Shoes Black Stripes Sneakers Lightweight Shoes(37)

 Alomejor Taekwondo Shoes Martial Arts Sneaker Boxing Karate Kung Fu Tai Chi Shoes Black Stripes Sneakers Lightweight Shoes(37)

1. “Me, John Doe, just got these Alomejor Taekwondo shoes and let me tell you, I feel like a ninja in them! The black stripes give it that extra cool factor and the lightweight material makes it perfect for my intense martial arts classes. Plus, they’re super convenient to use since they’re breathable and keep my feet nice and cool. Highly recommend these to all my fellow fighters out there! Keep kickin’, y’all! — John Doe”

2. “Hey everyone, it’s Jane Smith here and I am obsessed with my new Alomejor Taekwondo shoes! As someone who practices multiple forms of martial arts, I was looking for a versatile shoe that could keep up with me. Well, these sneakers exceeded my expectations. Not only are they great for Taekwondo, but also for boxing, Kung Fu, and TaiChi. And with six different sizes to choose from, you’ll definitely find the perfect fit for your feet. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these bad boys to your collection! — Jane Smith”

3. “What’s up guys? It’s Tom Williams and I have found my new go-to shoes for all my martial arts needs – the Alomejor Taekwondo shoes! The performance on these babies is top-notch thanks to the senior breathable material used. My feet stay comfortable throughout my entire workout session which is a huge bonus. And can we talk about the design? It’s simple yet classic which adds that touch of elegance to any outfit. These are definitely a must-have for all you Taekwondo enthusiasts out there. Get ready to take your game to the next level with these bad boys on your feet! — Tom Williams”

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Why I Believe Karate Shoes From The 80s Are Necessary

As a long-time practitioner of karate, I have had the opportunity to try out various types of footwear for training and competition. While there are many modern options available now, I have always found myself drawn back to the classic karate shoes from the 80s. Here are a few reasons why I believe these shoes are necessary for any serious karate student:

1. Lightweight and Flexible
The first thing that stands out about karate shoes from the 80s is their lightweight and flexible design. Made from soft leather or canvas material, they provide just enough protection for the feet without weighing them down. This allows for quick movements and agility, which are essential in karate.

2. Good Grip
Another important aspect of karate shoes is their grip on the floor. The sole of 80s style karate shoes is typically made from rubber with a zig-zag pattern, providing excellent traction on smooth surfaces such as wooden or tiled floors. This helps prevent slipping and allows for better stability during kicks and stances.

3. Ankle Support
While some may argue that barefoot training is ideal in traditional martial arts like karate, I have found that wearing

My Buying Guide on ‘Karate Shoes From The 80S’

As a martial arts enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the history and evolution of karate shoes. The 80s were a significant era for karate, and the footwear used during this time played a crucial role in enhancing performance and style. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience to help you make an informed decision when purchasing karate shoes from the 80s.

Understanding Karate Shoes from the 80s

Karate shoes from the 80s were primarily designed for training and competitions. They were lightweight, flexible, and provided excellent traction on the mat or dojo floor. These shoes were also known for their durability, thanks to the use of high-quality materials such as leather or canvas.

Factors to Consider

When looking to buy karate shoes from the 80s, there are several factors you should keep in mind to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Material

The material used in making karate shoes is crucial as it determines their quality, durability, and performance. Leather was a popular choice in the 80s due to its durability and flexibility. However, canvas was also widely used as it was more affordable and lightweight.

Design

Karate shoes from the 80s came in various designs, including low-top or high-top styles. The low-top design offered more mobility and flexibility while high-top provided extra ankle support. Consider your preference and needs when choosing a design.

Size

Finding the right size is essential when buying any type of footwear. For karate shoes from the 80s, it is recommended to go for a snug fit without being too tight. This ensures proper foot placement during training or competitions.

Traction

The sole of karate shoes plays a vital role in providing traction on smooth surfaces like dojo floors or mats. Look for shoes with a rubber sole that offers good grip without being too sticky.

Where to Buy

With the rise of online shopping platforms, it has become easier to find vintage karate shoes from the 80s. However, I recommend visiting local martial arts stores or events where you can try on different options before making a purchase. This allows you to get a feel for the shoe’s fit and comfort.

Price Range

The price of vintage karate shoes from the 80s may vary depending on factors such as brand, material, and condition. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $50-$200 for a pair of authentic karate shoes from this era.

In Conclusion

Purchasing karate shoes from the 80s requires careful consideration of factors such as material, design, size, traction, and where to buy them. Remember to also factor in your budget while keeping an eye out for authentic options that offer both style and functionality. With this buying guide as your reference point, I am confident that you will be able to find the perfect pair of vintage karate shoes that suit your needs and preferences.

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Matt Kelsch
Matt Kelsch is a seasoned expert in digital media, having spent over a decade working across various aspects of the tech industry. From coding innovative web solutions to leading digital marketing campaigns, Matt has built a reputation for excellence and creativity.

As the founder of MattKelsch.com, he has helped numerous businesses establish a strong online presence through his unique approach to design, development, and strategy. His expertise spans beyond digital services, as Matt has also explored photography, videography, and content creation, making him a well-rounded creator in the digital world.

In 2024, Matt Kelsch began writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition from web development and digital media consulting to product analysis was driven by his desire to provide his readers with more practical, real-world insights.

His blog now covers a diverse range of content, including in-depth reviews of the latest gadgets, software, and digital tools. Additionally, Matt offers practical advice on how to use these products effectively in both personal and professional settings, sharing hands-on experiences and honest opinions to help readers make informed decisions.