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Brooks’ New Release Packs 50 Years of Running Heritage Into One Sleek Silhouette

Launched in 1976, the low-profile lifestyle shoe retains its retro vibes while adding modern-day materials.

Green and white Brooks running shoe with white laces and red sole on a blue background.Brooks
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By Hayley Helms

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Few running brands are as respected as Brooks , but fashion has never been the 112-year-old brand’s strongest feature. That may be about to change, thanks to a reissue straight from its own archive.

The Vanguard reworks a 1970s silhouette into a low-profile, modern essential, balancing classic design with updated materials.

Green and gray Brooks running shoes with white laces worn with beige socks, shown on a wooden bench in a locker room.
The Brooks Vanguard celebrates 50 years of style with a faithful reissue of the low-profile runner.
Brooks

Semicentennial style

The Vanguard launched in 1976 as a high-end distance running shoe, built with the low-profile construction that defined ’70s runners.

Pair of mauve and cream suede and mesh sneakers with cream laces and textured rubber soles.
The Grape Shake/Eggnog/Rose Brown shows off the nylon upper with suede overlays.
Brooks

That slim style has been trending for the last few years, eclipsing the dominance of chunky, oversized sneakers in the marketplace.

Thus, the timing couldn’t be better for Brooks to re-introduce the Vanguard, but this new reissue goes beyond aesthetics.

Pair of light blue Brooks running shoes with white laces and beige side accents, viewed from above.
The Vanguard represents Brooks’ heritage and longstanding commitment to movement.
Brooks

While the new unisex Vanguard maintains the nylon upper and premium suede overlays found on the original, it’s packing some heat underfoot, namely in the form of the brand’s proprietary DNA Loft midsole cushioning.

Pair of maroon and beige Brooks running shoes with cream laces and gum soles on a white background.
The Vanguard expertly blends vintage appeal and modern comfort into one easy-to-wear package.
Brooks

That blend of EVA foam, rubber and air brings a plush, lightweight feel to the brand’s popular runners; now it is doing the same for the new nostalgia-fueled everyday casual shoe.

Black and white low-top sneaker with white laces and textured sole.
The Black/ Coconut Milk colorway is the most modern of the five new hues.
Brooks

The new-and-improved Vanguard comes in in five vintage-inspired colorways: Mallard Green/Bone White/Port,  Black/Coconut Milk, Cloud Blue/Coconut/Larkspur, Grape Shake/Eggnog/Rose Brown and Port/Crepe/Odyssey.

Availability and pricing

The Vanguard is available on Brooks’ website now, retailing for $130.

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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