Pro-Specs 1983 and 1984 vintage sneaker ads for the Axis-Plus runners

Today we’ve got a double feature from Pro-Specs with two different ads for the same model Axis-Plus running shoe from 1983 and 1984. These sneakers came with a 6-month/3,000 mile guarantee. The first ad below is from 1983 and is available over at RewindRunning.com.

Ad info is below:

Presenting the high performance shoe that doesn't run a lot. It's under $40.

If you run a lot, you'll appreciate the high-performance features of our Axis-Plus shoes. Things like a unique Pro-Specs motion control system that helps keep your feet from moving from side to side, an extra lacing system that increases stability, mesh uppers for optimal ventilation and a three-part insole that offers an unusual combination of flexibility and control. It's an amazing feat that such high performance is available for such an affordable price. And no matter how much your customers pay for a running shoe, they won't get a 6-month/3,000 mile guarantee from anyone else. The choice is yours. You can take your chances and spend a lot of money on a running shoe. Or you can get the high class, high tech shoe that's guaranteed. The Axis- Plus. You may run a lot . . . but your shoes don't have to.

Our EVA cushion is made of two different densities The Inferior EVA has greater density to prevent over pro-nation and to help propel the foot forward

Our insole a built in three parts to provide needed rear foot and fore-foot control while Mowing for flexibility at the point where the foot Neves naturally.

New Specs, Inc , Avon, MA 02322

PRO-SPECS

This second ad is from 1984. Ad info is below:
The kicker is the guarantee

With so many running shoes to choose from, how do you pick a winner? Pro Specs offers one way — a guarantee. The Pro-Specs Axis- Plus is guaranteed for 6 months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. The Axis-Plus also propels the foot forward, prevents side-to-side motion and has an extra lacing system that increases stability. With all these features, plus a guarantee, you can't lose.

PRO-SPECS

New Specs Inc, Wales Avenue, Avon, MA 02322

Today Pro-Specs is still going strong in Korea where they are headquartered. Below are a pair of their Prospecs Original J 101 model runners.

Pro-Specs sneaker image courtesy of Hallyumart.

Various vintage running shoe and retro sneaker models from 1981

This old scan is from 1981 and has some well worn distress. It looks like it survived The Great Flood. Below we have retro sneaker models from:

PONY - Targa Flex?
Etonic - Eclipse
Reebok
Vans - Serio
Osaga - KT26
New Balance - 730(?)
Saucony - Jazz?
Brookfield

Pro Wings
Pro-Specs - Marathons
Brooks
Nike
Converse
Asics Tiger
Autry - Concorde
Puma - Fast Rider
adidas

Pro-Specs 1979 "Marathon Series" vintage sneaker ad

Here’s a 1979 retro sneaker ad for the Pro-Specs ‘Marathon Series’ sneakers featuring the Munich, Montreal, Innsbruck and Athens models:

Ad info is below:

Pro Specs Introduces the Marathon Series

With 3500 miles and 51/2 million footsteps of a grueling cross U.S.A. run as its testing ground, the new Specs Marathon Series has proven itself for durability, support and comfort. Engineered for long distance running, these shoes have conquered 130 degree desert heat, traversed the ominous Rockies and splashed through torrential rain and hailstorms intact.

The Specs Marathons: The running shoes that will conquer the distance, not let the distance conquer you ...

The Marathoners feature:
(1 ) The "Munich": Specs own "Track 80" outsole with its all terrain gripper design.
(2) The "Montreal": Custom engineered to fit all insteps in comfort.
(3) The "Athens": Light as a feather with mudguard outsole for maximum spring.
(4) The "Innsbruck": Unsurpassed flexibility and durability with unique poly outsole.

The Specs Marathoners are shoes designed by serious runners for people who take running seriously.

Pro-Specs 1983 vintage sneaker ad

Back in 1983 when Pro-Specs could hold their own with high end things like a diamond ring and and an old school Porsche 928.

​Ad info is below:

Why not shoes?
GUARANTEE Pro-Specs is the first sport shoe brand to offer a written guarantee on its performance shoes . . . right in the box. You wouldn't consider buying other high technology products without a written guarantee. Now you don't have to buy high-tech sport shoes without a written guarantee . . . direct from the manufacturer. Guaranteed durability, guaranteed quality, guaranteed value, guaranteed performance. In the competitive world of athletic footwear, we back our performance in writing .. . . . . why not Pro-Specs shoes?

PRO-SPECS

Consumer Relations Department Wales Avenue, Avon, Massachusetts 02322
Wats: 800-225-0475, Telex: SPECS AVNO 924313