Onitsuka Tiger’s Mexico 66 is sweeping Paris with its retro charm, from the Champs-Élysées to street style hotspots. This classic shoe is transforming into a French secret weapon for Spring/Summer 2026. It blends the soul of the 60s with modern details, making every step a story.
## Classic Lineage and Paris Exclusive
Born in 1966, the Mexico 66 originated from the Limber training shoe, featuring the iconic tiger claw side stripe, symbolizing Onitsuka Tiger’s pioneering spirit. The Paris flagship store exclusive features a gradient of the French flag—a mix of red, gray, and blue suede fabric—infused with romantic national spirit through artisan craftsmanship, making it a must-have souvenir for travelers to France.
The Camel NM L9 limited edition, supervised by Tomohisa Yamashita, with only 1,000 pairs worldwide, is expected to launch on the European and Japanese websites in March, showcasing the brand’s high-end craftsmanship.
## Runway and Street Style Interpretations
Under the SS26 Urban Fantasy theme, satin ballet variations and leather tassels interpret the MEXICO 66, light and dreamlike. On the streets of Paris, socialites paired it with white T-shirts and jeans, effortlessly embodying the casual elegance of the “French girl”; Gen Z, with its low-sole and vibrant colors, ignited social media.
From high-end shows at Milan Fashion Week to the new Tottori factory, this shoe connects culture and trends, experiencing a third spring in the 90s cycle.
## Variations at a Glance
| Version | Design Focus | Style Positioning |
| Classic White & Blue | Canvas upper, tiger claw logo, lightweight and comfortable | Everyday French style, pair with wide-leg pants or skirts |
| Flag Edition | Gradient suede, exclusive Parisian fabric | Travel souvenir, eye-catching for street style |
| NM L9 Camel | Supervised by Yamashita Tomohisa, camel-patterned tiger stripe, high-end leather | Collector’s item, perfect for autumn/winter transition |
| Satin Ballet | Soft upper, inspired by the SS26 runway | Elegant mix-and-match, ballet flat feel |
| SD Ocean Haze | Mint green hue, sea fog gradient | Summer freshness, perfect for outdoor walks |
For narrow feet, prioritize canvas; for wider feet, choose the cushioned SD series.
## Styling Tips, Unbeatable Street Style
Pair the white version with an oversized shirt and flared pants to elongate your legs; the flag edition layered knit set gives off a Parisian girl vibe. Limited-edition camel-print shoes paired with a leather jacket inject a rugged, masculine style; accessories like ankle straps or stockings elevate the look and prevent monotony.
Whether it’s torch pants or an A-line skirt, these shoes are a universal solution, effortlessly conquering all seasons.
## Why They’ve Become a Phenomenon
The Mexico 66 is more than just a shoe; it’s a cultural icon. From Olympic legend to social media sensation, it proves that timeless design triumphs over fleeting trends. Own a pair, and you’ll capture the rhythm of Paris.
