The 1970s were a wild time for fashion, and that included footwear. Whether you were strutting down the street in platform heels or slipping on some well-worn sneakers, shoes in the ’70s had personality. Some were stylish, some were downright impractical, but all of them were unforgettable—until now. Let’s take a walk back through 12 shoes you probably forgot you owned from the 1970s.
1. Platform Shoes
If there’s one shoe that screams ‘70s, it’s the platform. Men and women alike embraced these sky-high soles, adding inches to their height while risking a twisted ankle. Whether covered in glitter, suede, or vinyl, platforms made every outfit just a little more outrageous. According to Refinery29, these funky shoes have a history as lofty as the wearer.
Despite their popularity, platforms weren’t the most practical choice for walking on uneven sidewalks. Many of us learned the hard way that balance was key, especially when dancing at the disco. While they’ve made occasional comebacks, nothing quite matches the over-the-top styles of the ’70s.
2. Earth Shoes
Earth Shoes were the go-to for anyone wanting to be both stylish and a little rebellious. With their “negative heel” design—where the heel was lower than the toe—they were supposed to promote better posture and a more natural way of walking. Whether or not that worked is up for debate, but one thing’s for sure: they had a devoted following. Its origins are as surprising as the shoe’s fate, according to Time Magazine.
They weren’t the sleekest-looking shoes, but their comfort made up for it. Walking in Earth Shoes felt a little like walking uphill all the time, but for some reason, that was part of the appeal. Eventually, the trend faded, but true fans never forgot their first pair.
3. Clogs
Before Crocs, there were clogs—wooden-soled shoes that made every step feel (and sound) dramatic. Whether you wore them with jeans, dresses, or even to work, clogs were everywhere. They were chunky, loud, and surprisingly versatile. For how recognizable clogs are, Footwear News reports it having quite the colorful history of evolution.
The downside? They weren’t exactly known for comfort, and if you weren’t careful, they could go flying off your feet. Still, for a while, they were the height of casual European-inspired fashion.
4. Wallabees
If you had a pair of Wallabees, you were probably one of the cool kids. These suede, moccasin-like shoes with crepe soles were stylish without trying too hard. They were the perfect mix of casual and trendy, making them a staple in many wardrobes. Its history stretches back to the ’60s, according to MixMag, and has never quite gone away since.
They looked great, but they weren’t exactly built for bad weather. One step into a puddle, and you were in for a long day with soggy feet. Still, they had a unique look that made them stand out from other shoes of the decade.
5. Waffle Trainers
Nike’s Waffle Trainers changed the game when it came to athletic shoes. Inspired by a waffle iron (yes, really), the tread was designed to give better traction. These lightweight sneakers were a must-have for runners, but they quickly became everyday casual wear.
They weren’t as flashy as other ’70s shoes, but they got the job done. Plus, they were way more comfortable than most of the other styles on this list. If you still have an old pair, you might be sitting on a small fortune—vintage sneaker collectors love them.
6. Buffalo Sandals
These thick-strapped leather sandals were a staple for both men and women in the ’70s. They had a rugged, outdoorsy look, perfect for summer days and casual outfits. If you owned a pair, you probably wore them with bell-bottoms or cut-off shorts.
The problem? They took forever to break in, and they weren’t exactly soft on the feet. But once they molded to your foot, they became one of the most comfortable shoes you owned.
7. Two-Tone Saddle Shoes
A throwback to earlier decades, saddle shoes had a bit of a revival in the ’70s. The classic two-tone design made them stand out, and they paired perfectly with preppy fashion. Whether you were rocking them for school or just as a fashion statement, they had a timeless appeal.
Of course, keeping those white sections clean was a full-time job. One scuff, and they went from sharp to shabby in no time. But if you kept them looking fresh, they added a touch of class to any outfit.
8. Jelly Sandals
Jelly sandals were the ultimate fun, carefree shoe of the ’70s. Made of soft, flexible plastic, they were colorful, cheap, and easy to slip on. Whether you wore them to the beach or just around the house, they were a summer staple.
Unfortunately, they weren’t the most durable shoes, often breaking after a few months of wear. And if you left them in the sun too long, they could warp into a completely different shape. Still, for a brief moment, they were the perfect mix of trendy and playful.
9. Huarache Sandals
These woven leather sandals had a cool, bohemian vibe that fit right in with the ’70s aesthetic. Originally from Mexico, they became popular for their comfort and unique look. If you were into earthy, natural fashion, these were probably in your closet.
However, their open-weave design didn’t provide much support, and they could stretch out over time. But for a warm day, they were a breathable and stylish choice. Even today, you can still find updated versions of these classic sandals.
10. Go-Go Boots
Go-go boots might be more associated with the ’60s, but they stuck around in the ’70s too. These knee-high, shiny boots were perfect for disco nights and bold fashion statements. Whether you had them in white, black, or even metallic, they made you feel like you were ready to dance.
Of course, they weren’t exactly made for comfort. Stiff materials and high heels made them tough to wear for long periods. But style overruled comfort back then, and these boots definitely made an impact.
11. Rope Wedges
Wedge heels were huge in the ’70s, and the rope-wrapped versions had a beachy, vacation-ready feel. These espadrille-style shoes gave just the right amount of height without the wobble of stilettos. Paired with a maxi dress or wide-leg pants, they completed the perfect summer look.
Unfortunately, the rope soles could fray or unravel after too much wear. But as long as they held up, they were a stylish and comfortable alternative to high heels. Every summer wardrobe had room for at least one pair.
12. Bowling Shoes
Even if you weren’t a serious bowler, chances are you owned—or at least borrowed—a pair of classic bowling shoes in the ’70s. With their stiff leather construction, thick rubber soles, and unmistakable two-tone color scheme, these shoes were as much a part of the experience as the sound of pins crashing. Whether you joined a league or just went for fun on a Saturday night, slipping into those funky rentals always meant a good time.
The problem was, they weren’t exactly the most comfortable shoes off the lanes. If you had your own pair, you probably tried to break them in, but they still had that awkward, clunky feel. But style wasn’t the point—bowling shoes were all about striking (or at least attempting to) in true ’70s fashion.
From disco-ready platforms to practical sneakers, the ’70s had a shoe for every occasion. Some of these styles have made a comeback, while others are best left in the past. Either way, remembering them is like stepping back into a different time—one where fashion had no limits, and neither did our shoe collections!
