The history of
K SWISS

Written by: Parker Hargens

Back in 1966, two Swiss brothers landed in California with a simple yet game-changing idea: take the rugged support of their beloved leather ski boots and turn it into the world's first all-leather tennis shoe.

Boom, just like that, K-Swiss became an instant icon, known for mixing European craftsmanship with West Coast vibes.

Fast forward six decades, K-Swiss still serves fresh kicks that blend style, comfort, and heritage seamlessly. So, let’s dive into three standout sneakers that have blessed the SNIPES catalogue: the Classic VN, the Melrose Tubes Lite, and the Si-18 Rival.

CLASSIC VN

RELEASED: 1966

Now, one thing you know and may want to get your kid hip to early is this: style never fades. Enter the Classic VN, the one that started it all. Proving itself in the test of time, with only a few modernized buffs, it remains a staple sneaker built to handle whatever anyone can throw its way. Built with sturdy leather, the signature five stripes, and that distinctive three-piece toe, it's as street-proof as it is stylish.

SI-18 RIVAL

RELEASED: 1989

Next on the list, another prestigious sneaker that dives into K-Swiss’s deep tennis roots, the Si-18 Rival blends '80s aesthetics with contemporary tech. This shoe nods to the iconic Classic VN, featuring a couple of key K-Swiss trademarks while incorporating the Surgelite cushioning technology straight from K-Swiss's high-performance tennis range. Retro? Yes. All-day comfort? Um, of course. Whether you're courtside or curbside, the Si-18 Rival is where heritage intersects with hype, a stylish throwback seasoned to perfection.

MELROSE TUBES LIGHT

RELEASED: 2025

Your newest entry to the series: the Melrose Tubes Lite. Engineered to keep up with the urban hustle, this new K-Swiss classic delivers a smooth ride through subways, sidewalks, and rooftops. Featuring an ultra-breathable mesh upper and K-Swiss’s latest cushioning tech, each step feels easy thanks to exceptional shock absorption. Lightweight, stylish, and ready to roll, it's the ultimate companion for everyday adventures.