Today's Jogger April / May 1979 featuring the Osaga KT-26 and Tiger Enduro

Today we’ve got a scan from the 1979 running magazine Today's Jogger featuring the Osaga KT-26 and Tiger Enduro. This magazine is available for sale over at our RewindRunning.com store.

Article info is below:

JOGGING JAZZ

REVOLUTIONARY NEW DESIGN FOR RUNNING SHOE

Osaga of Oregon, producer of active and leisure footwear for the whole family, makes another giant stride into the ranks of the serious athlete with the introduction of a revolutionary new running shoe..the KT-26.

Combining precision findings from the bio-mechanics and sports laboratory at the University of Oregon with years of research and development by Jerry Stubblefield, physicist, chemist, and former NCAA discus champion, the KT-26 is unique in design and functionality.

The patented, cantilevered sole of the KT-26 dissipates shock upon impact with a unique flaring lug design. Following each stride, the sole returns to its original configuration, springing the runner forward. This uniquely designed kinetic response is the key factor in easier and longer runs. In addition, the flaring effect of the kinetic lugs greatly prolongs sole life and minimizes typical running injuries.

The radically new patented bio-kinetic construction of the KT-26 meets the most stringent demands of a top-quality training shoe, offering the ultimate in shock absorption.

Offering the ultimate in durability and flexibility, the KT-26 is uniquely built to handle a diverse range of terrain and long distance running. The upper of the KT-26 is partly constructed of nylon mesh which enables the foot to breathe and stay cool, even on the hottest days and longest runs.

In addition to meeting the exacting specifications of leading orthopedic specialists and podiatrists, the KT-26 takes the lead in styling by incorporating the Osaga flash trademark design with the fashion colors most in demand.

The KT-26 is available to men in royal/red, white/sky blue/red, and vellow/orange in sizes o TO 16 in medium widths Mens' sizes 9-16 are also available in slim widths, in white/sky blue/red only. Women can obtain the KT-26 in sky blue/red or yellow orange in sizes 4-10 and 11 in medium widths and in sizes 7-10 in slim widths, in sky blue/red only.

Osaga's KT-26, the shoe sure to give the runner the most comfortable fit and perfect run to date, will be available at over 4000 outlets across the nation at a suggested retail price of $32.00.

TIGER'S ENDURO INNOVATION IN UNISEX DESIGN

ASICS Sports of America!, inc:, Tiger Shoe division, is currently offering an all-terrain high traction shoe. Practical for both training, and competition the Encluro and the new Enduro II both feature the "Tiger Trac" studded sole for wearability and grip. "We are pleased to be the first manufacturer to offer a narrow width 'for both men and women" states Alex Flesh, ASICS Merchandise manager. “With both sizes on the box Enduro II is also a valuable addition to the retailers inventory." The Enduro I and II have been tested on the feet of many world class runners proving to be both comfortable and durable. For further information on this long-awaited innovation in unisex design in a quality running shoe contact ASICS Sports of America. Inc 2151, Embury Park Road. Dayton, Ohio 45414. Telephone (513) 279-0747.

Osaga KT-26 1979 vintage running shoes ad for the human race

Here’s an old school ad from 1979 for the Osaga KT-26 model running shoes. These shoes featured bio-kinetic construction and Kinetic levers.

Ad info is below:

the KT-26
the answer to your running demands

One of the biggest hazards of running is shock impact on the foot. The bio-kinetic construction of the KT-26 dissipates shock upon impact, deflecting it away from the foot and leg. Kinetic levers spread upon impact absorbing the shock and forcing it outward. Part of the absorbed shock, however, is stored in the levers and then released during the flow of ground contact, springing the runner forward. This is the principle of kinetic response. The levers are designed at an angle which causes them to lie parallel to the ground at the peak compression point, providing maximum stability. The center section of the levers is slightly offset to the outside of the heel for optimum benefit during the early portion of heel strike. The sole will conform to irregular surface areas providing excellent traction. Additional reinforcement is built up between the levers on the inside shoulder of the heel area to minimize ankle proncrtion and maximize sole life. The KT-26 is the running shoe designed for you, to help you run farther, safer.

OSAGA
For The Human race

For more information please contact our corporate headquarters —Osaga, Inc. 2468 West 11th Avenue, Eugene, OR 97402 (503) 484-1344 Eastern distributor: Osaga East, 444 N. 4th Street, Philadelphia, PA Canadian distributor: Nielsen Distributors, P.O. Box 94340, Richmond B.C. Canada U.S. and Foreign Patents Pending. Osaga will assert its patent rights against infringers

Runner's World Top-Rated Running Shoes for 1980

This is the Runner’s World magazine buyer’s guide featuring their top rated runners in 1980. It’s interesting that only two Nike shoes are featured and that Jox Roadhandlers made the cut but Asics / Onitsuka Tiger, Converse and Etonic didn’t.

Page info is below:

5-STAR SHOES AT A GLANCE
⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆
Runner's World Top-Rated Running Shoes for 1980

ADIDAS LADY MARATHON 80 WOMEN'S RACING FLAT

ADIDAS LADY MARATHON TRAINER WOMEN'S TRAINING FLAT

ADIDAS LADY TRX TRAINER WOMEN'S TRAINING FLAT

ADIDAS MARATHON 80 MEN'S RACING FLAT

ADIDAS MARATHON TRAINER MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

ADIDAS TRX TRAINER MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

AUTRY CONCORDE MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

BROOKS HUGGER GT MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

BROOKS LADY SUPER VILLANOVA WOMEN'S TRAINING FLAT

BROOKS LADY VANTAGE WOMEN'S TRAINING FLAT

BROOKS RT-1 MEN'S RACING FLAT

BROOKS SUPER VILLANOVA MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

BROOKS VANTAGE MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

BROOKS VANTAGE SUPREME MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

NIKE DAYBREAK MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

NIKE WOMEN'S LIBERATOR WOMEN'S TRAINING FLAT

NEW BALANCE 620 MEN'S TRAINING

OSAGA KT-26 FLAT MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

PUMA FAST RIDER MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

PUMA LITE RIDER MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

PUMA TRACK RIDER MEN'S RACING FLAT

REEBOK AZTEC MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

REEBOK AZTEC PRINCESS WOMEN'S TRAINING FLAT

REEBOK 10K MEN'S RACING FLAT

SAUCONY MS SILVER STREAK WOMEN'S RACING

SAUCONY MS TRAINER 1980 FLAT WOMEN'S TRAINING FLAT

SAUCONY SILVER STREAK MEN'S RACING FLAT

SAUCONY TRAINER 1980 MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

SPECS INNSBRUCK MEN'S TRAINING FLAT

THOM McAN WOMEN'S ROADHANDLER WOMEN'S TRAINING FLAT

Osaga 1979 retro sneaker ad for the KT-26 runner

Here’s an old Osaga brand vintage ad for the KT-26 bio-kinetic construction that was “built with bio-kinetic construction” and now you can match your runners with a warm up sweat-suit.

We’ve posted a few other Osaga ads here, here and there’s a kids pair of Osaga runners in this ad here.

Ad info is below:

KT-26 from top to bottom

We've told you about our revolutionary running shoe, the KT-26 . . . built with bio-kinetic construction for greater comfort and endurance. Now we want you to know about our coordinated actionwear designed to keep you looking as good as you feel. KT-26 warm-ups are made of washable 100% nylon tricot lustre with napped lining (women's are also available in brushed nylon tricot). Matching running shorts are made in women's sizes of nylon tricot lustre. Coordinated racing shorts and singlets are designed for lightweight comfort for both men and women. KT-26 T-shirt for men and women of 100% combed cotton.

osaga
For The Human race

For more information contact: Corporate Headquarters °SAGA, Incorporated, 2468 West 11th Avenue Eugene. Oregon 97402, Phone (503) 484-1344

Osaga KT-26 1980 vintage running shoe ad

Here's a 1980 vintage ad for the Osaga KT-26 running shoes with the awesome ⬅️ ⬆️ side profile logo. This shoe had the "Cantilever Principle" that "increased shock absorption while offering greater control." This original vintage Osaga running shoe ad is available over at our Rewind Running web shop.

Ad info is below:

OSAGA PERFORMANCE INTRODUCES THE HIGHWAY SAFETY ACT FOR 1980 

GOOD ADVICE ABOUT THE ROAD AHEAD: At the threshold of this decade, Osaga Performance introduced a running shoe based on a revolutionary principle developed through bio-mechanical research. The KT-26 incorporates the "Cantilever Principle" and combines it with state of the art construction and quality materials resulting in better foot protection for the serious runner. The Osaga Performance KT-26 has increased shock absorption while offering greater control, and those two qualities alone are what it's really all about. We researched it, designed it, tested it and now it has been proven, rated and accepted. The rest is up to you. You can buy a running shoe that reduces shock and increases stability. A running shoe designed for lightness, flexibility and durability-- all the qualities you require for serious performance. Or you can buy something of less value. The KT-26. It's for the challenge of the 80's, and Osaga Performance wants you to win.

Osaga Performance

RW5-STAR

*****

Runner's World Magazine

OSAGA INC., 2468 WEST 11th AVE., EUGENE, OR 97402 (503) 484-1344

Osaga KT-26 REVOLUTION vintage sneaker ad ​from 1979

Osaga KT-26 REVOLUTION vintage sneaker ad from 1979. The Osaga KT-26 is a cult classic sneaker only known to a few and are now rare collector items that sell used for upwards of $300-$1000 a pair. This original vintage magazine ad is available over at our Rewind Running web shop.

We were able to piece together a brand profile from "TonyK" on the Letsrun.com forum board who posted an excellent detailed account of Osaga’s history way back in 2009. Tony’s write up:

I somehow landed on your sight today and saw your comments about OSAGA. I was one of the first people to market OSAGA in the United States and was there from day one. Most of the comments and responses you received are a bit off target. The company was started about three months after a small company by the name of "Blue Ribbon Sports" or, as the name you may know better as "NIKE". It was started by a family shoe store retailer by the name of Bill Combs in Eugene, Oregon. Although he has passed, his stores are still there and are called "Burchs Fine Shoes". we were around Bill Bowerman several times because he was a good friend of Bill Combs. We would all go to dinner during big meets such as NCAA Cross Country championships, etc.

Almost all of the shoes had names beginning with the letter "C" as research found that those words were the easiest to remember. Names like Capra (which is the brightly colored shoes your responders are talking about), Cortina, Columbia and Cochise, which was meant to compete with the Adidas Country and was green and white as well.

The logo colors where Green and Yellow, but not because of Oregon. Once again, marketing research said those were the most pleasing colors. Osaga was the first company to put emphasis on matching warm-ups, bags, hats, shirts, etc to the shoe colors.

The original idea of the company was that the shoes would be world class running and athletic shoes but not be sold in sporting goods stores and would be made available only to family shoe stores. As you might guess this took away the opportunity to have athletes as spokespersons. Alberto Salazar is the only "major" runner to have worn the shoes and that only happed for a very short time.

Your responders are right that the technology morphed into Avia. OSAGA developed a shoe called the KT-26 which was rated the #2 running shoe in the world as rated by Runner's World magazine. Although the shoes could then be found in some Athletes Foot stores, there was no base of well known runners in sponsored by OSAGA to really maximize the potential for expansion. At that time Bill Combs was running out of money and the writing was on the wall. The company was closed and the technology of the KT-26 Cantilever sole was sold to Avia for a small amount of money.

Oddly enough, the best shoe OSAGA Ever produced was called the OSAGA 2000 which,at the time, was the lightest weight tennis shoe ever produced. It used lightweight materials that are common place today but were evolutionary at that time.

OSAGA was named after the Osage Native American Indians from Oklahoma and the tag line was "For the Human Race".

This other small excerpt on Osaga is from the book Out of Nowhere: The Inside Story of how Nike Marketed the Culture of Running by Geoff Hollister:

In three days, my staff member Peter Thompson and I were flying to Madison, Wisconsin for NCAA cross country. We immediately ran into Burch's Bill Combs of Eugene who decided if Phil Knight can do it, he could too. Burch's was the top shoe store in Eugene, and Combs started his own brand, naming it Osaga. He put money into Dellinger's scoreboard at Hayward Field, which we had turned down. Bowerman was irate at his successor's decision. Now Combs was at the NCAA meet, sponsoring a breakfast for athletes in an attempt to draw attention to his poorly built training flats.

Ouch.