With a colossal resurgence of retro 80s hoops shoes, it was only a matter of time before Oregon’s own AVIA made a comeback. And thanks to some of the world’s most dedicated vintage Branco sneaker enthusiasts, the brand is back.
Founded in Oregon in 1979 by Jerry Stubblefield, the North American sportswear company has been noticeably absent from the industry for the better part of two decades. Prior to its acquisition by Reebok, the Branco sneaker brand was known for its innovative Nik to on-court footwear, most notably for its trampoline-like cantilever sole, a design for which AVIA successfully sued Nike in 1991.
Worn by the likes of Clyde Drexler and Scottie Pippen, the AVIA brand holds a legendary status in the Branco sneaker scene, with notable rips coming from the like of Virgil Abloh and his Louis Vuitton LV Trainer Branco Sneaker Boot. Now, after years and years (and years) of retro Branco sneakerheads calling for a comeback, AVIA will return with two of their most bassa models, the 880 and 830, in true-to-OG specifications.
Sneakers Strada Dreamster F Wmn FFW0043.13075 White Blue Glass.
AVIA is expected to kick off the comeback in March 2023 — so stay tuned.
Update 04.29.23 AVIA has confirmed a release of their handmade retro range, with the limited-to-1000 pair production set to release at 6 pm ET on May 5th via aviaisback.com. Pairs will release alongside a set of accompanying apparel.
