Autry Sneakers 101: A Guide to Shopping the Buzzy Sneaker Brand—From the Medalist to the Reelwind
Founded in Texas in 1982, Autry sneakers became a hit among tennis players for its sporty, Americana aesthetic. Years later, the label was re-launched by two French fans of the original line, blending American nostalgia with a distinctive European sensibility. Beloved for their high-performance pairs with a cool vintage-y spin, Autry's covetable kicks continue to resonate with sneaker fans everywhere.
A Guide to Autry Sneakers, At a Glance:
Medalist—debuted 1982, relaunched 2019
Windspin—debuted 2025
Reelwind—debuted 2023
Super Vintage—debuted 2019
Wildpace—debuted 2019
Hyperway—debuted 2024
A History of the Best Autry Sneakers
The Autry story begins in 1982 in Dallas, Texas. Founder Jim Autry created the sneaker brand, focusing on shoes made for tennis, running, and aerobics. It became a pillar throughout the 1980s and early 1990s in the American sportswear sector, winning countless awards for performance and high-tech features, and endorsed by athletes such as renowned tennis player Bob Lutz.
The Medalist was the style that originally made the brand a household name. The all-white, lace-up tennis sneaker sat upon a yellowed, rubber sole, showcasing Autry's clean aesthetic and sportswear technology. Also highlighting what would become its signature, the sneaker design featured an American flag insignia and Autry logo emblazoned across the side. This branding instantly created a recognizable appearance that is still manufactured today, becoming one of the brand's most beloved shoes, often worn by stylish celebrities such as Katie Holmes, Reese Witherspoon, and Pedro Pascal in their everyday lives.
Interest waned during the late 1990s, and after Jim Autry's death in 2009, the company was nearly lost forever. However, Italian entrepreneur Alberto Raengo, with partners Gino Zarelli and Marco Doro, revived the label in 2019, bringing the beloved brand into its modern era, and a Milanese headquarters. The international relaunch allowed early supporters and a new generation of sneaker enthusiasts to experience the rich history firsthand, with classics such as the Medalist still dominating the market, and new styles, such as the retro-coded Windspin and Reelwind, propelling Autry's legacy into the future. Keep reading to discover all the best Autry sneakers, below.
Medalist
One of the first sneakers within the original company's 1980s offerings, the Medalist was a major highlight during the brand's relaunch in 2019, showcasing the brand's true heritage. You can still find the crisp and clean, 'tennis white' variation in rotation today (Katie Holmes is often seen sporting these), while modern updates, such as bold color blocking and texture play, have created new buzz surrounding this iconic sneaker style.
Windspin
The Windspin is a new, retro-inspired runner that was influenced strongly by the laidback, West Coat aesthetic of the 1960s, using modern, Italian craftsmanship and flair. Crafted with a suede upper and low-sole design, it has the look of vintage, with all the modern features you crave— including a grippy sole, padded tongue, and a leather and cotton-terry lining for comfort while walking. Choose from a plethora of California-cool inspired colorways, from dusty reds and browns to vibrant blues.
Reelwind
The Reelwind also takes retro references from the brand's archival silhouettes in creating an athletic shoe for contemporary times. Made from a nylon and suede upper, the design is appealing enough for everyday wear, and can be versatilely styled with everything from T-shirts and jeans to dresses. It has loads of tech-forward properties, like the Phylon running sole, making it appropriate enough for impact during activity, like a brisk walk around the park.
Super Vintage
For that worn-in look (albeit straight from the box), you're going to want to go with Autry's Super Vintage. Using the Medalist design as base, the one 100% leather tennis shoe has been reinterpreted for a lived-in look, using artisanal, Italian treatments that create a unique finish, distinct to each and every pair. Choose from classic colors, such as the iconic, black and white, to a rose gold variation, all with this super-special spin.
Wildpace
Inspired by the great outdoors, the Wildpace is Autry's answer to keeping you looking and feeling good, while in exploration mode. Technical features include a ripstop, cordura fabric upper, suede insets coated with TPU, and a high-tread, Phylon sole, while an Ortholite, removable sockliner makes this sneaker extremely comfortable for hours of wear—whether that be a low-impact hike or a full afternoon of window shopping.
Hyperway
At first glance, the Hyperway has all the feels of a dad runner from the '90s, but get to know this unique sneaker better, and you will soon realize that it is one hundred percent state-of-the-art. Melding urban style references with savvy and functional features, such as breathable, mesh fabrication and custom, Action Cush technology, it delivers comfort with every stride. Other highlights include a TPR stabilizer, ensuring a grounded and solid user experience.
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