The Indian footwear market has seen numerous popular shoe models that won the hearts of consumers but were sadly discontinued. Some of these shoes gained a cult following for their durability, comfort, affordability, or style. In this article, we highlight 15 discontinued shoes that performed exceptionally well in the Indian market, leaving behind a legacy that many shoe lovers still remember.
1. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35
A favorite among runners, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 was loved for its responsive cushioning and lightweight design. It offered a smooth ride for daily training and races but was later replaced by newer iterations, leaving many fans disappointed.
2. Adidas Adizero Boston 6
This running shoe was highly regarded for its perfect balance between cushioning and speed. The Adizero Boston 6 gained immense popularity among marathon runners in India but was phased out in favor of newer models.
3. Puma Faas 500
The Puma Faas 500 was an excellent choice for casual and serious runners alike. Known for its breathability, comfortable fit, and lightweight construction, it was discontinued despite a loyal customer base.
4. Reebok Classic Leather
A timeless design, the Reebok Classic Leather was once a staple for sneakerheads in India. It was versatile, durable, and stylish, making its discontinuation a disappointing move for many fans.
5. Bata North Star Sneakers
Bata’s North Star Sneakers were an affordable and stylish option for college students and casual wearers. Despite their popularity, these shoes slowly disappeared from the Indian market, leaving behind nostalgic memories.
6. Woodland G-40777
Woodland’s G-40777 was a rugged and stylish boot that suited adventure lovers. It was built for durability, making it a favorite among trekkers and travelers before being discontinued.
7. Converse Jack Purcell
The Jack Purcell line from Converse had a distinct charm, offering a blend of vintage and modern appeal. This shoe enjoyed immense love in India before being discontinued, much to the dismay of sneaker enthusiasts.
8. Nike Free RN 2018
Nike’s Free RN 2018 was a top choice for athletes looking for flexibility and comfort in their workouts. Despite its performance, Nike decided to move away from this model, bringing newer alternatives instead.
9. Adidas Stan Smith Primeknit
A lightweight, breathable version of the iconic Stan Smith, this shoe was favored for its comfort and premium feel. However, Adidas phased it out to focus on different variations of the classic Stan Smith.
10. Lotto Vertigo
Lotto’s Vertigo was a budget-friendly sports shoe that gained massive popularity in India. It was particularly favored by students and fitness enthusiasts before being discontinued.
11. Skechers GoRun Ride 7
The Skechers GoRun Ride 7 was well-liked for its soft cushioning and bounce-back responsiveness. Many runners appreciated its comfort, but it was eventually discontinued in favor of newer models.
12. Fila Disruptor 2
A bold and chunky sneaker, the Fila Disruptor 2 had a massive fan base in India for its street-style appeal. Unfortunately, Fila discontinued the model, leading to high resale prices among collectors.
13. Action Milano
A highly affordable formal shoe brand in India, Action Milano was a go-to choice for working professionals. Its durability and comfort made it a household name before it slowly disappeared from the market.
14. Asics Gel Nimbus 20
The Gel Nimbus 20 was one of Asics’ most loved cushioned running shoes, known for its plush feel and durability. It was replaced with newer models, leaving loyal users searching for alternatives.
15. Vans Authentic Lite
Vans’ Authentic Lite version offered improved comfort and weight reduction, making it an excellent choice for skaters and casual wearers. Despite its popularity, it was pulled from production in favor of standard versions.
FAQs
1. Why are popular shoe models discontinued?
Shoe brands often discontinue models to introduce updated versions with better technology, materials, or design improvements. Market demand, production costs, and sales performance also influence such decisions.
2. Can I still buy discontinued shoes in India?
Yes, discontinued shoes can sometimes be found on online marketplaces, resale platforms, or outlet stores. However, availability is limited, and prices may be higher due to demand.
3. Are discontinued shoes replaced with similar models?
In most cases, brands release successor models with improved features. However, some discontinued models do not have direct replacements, leading to disappointment among loyal customers.
4. How do I find alternatives to my favorite discontinued shoe?
To find a suitable alternative, consider checking the brand’s latest releases with similar specifications. Online shoe forums, reviews, and customer feedback can help you identify a comparable option.
5. Why do people seek discontinued shoes?
People look for discontinued shoes because of their comfort, performance, sentimental value, or unique design. Some models gain cult status, making them highly sought after even after being phased out.
Final Thoughts
While brands discontinue certain shoe models to make way for innovation, many of these shoes leave a lasting impact on consumers. If you ever owned any of these 15 discontinued shoes, you might still cherish their comfort, design, and performance. Let us know in the comments which one you miss the most!
