Tretorn Sneakers Review: Are These Classic Kicks Worth Your Money?
If you enjoy stylish yet comfy shoes, you might have heard about Tretorn sneakers. This Swedish brand has been around since 1891, and people still talk about its cool designs today.
I decided to dig into what makes Tretorn sneakers special and share my thoughts with you. In this blog post, I review everything from their history to how they feel on your feet.
Curious if these kicks deserve a spot in your closet? Keep reading to find out! I promise you’ll get all the details you need to decide, plus some fun facts to impress your friends.
Tretorn blends old school vibes with modern twists, and that mix hooks me every time. Whether you love casual walks or need a trendy pair for errands, this review covers it all.

Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
Here’s a quick list of what I found about Tretorn sneakers. This section sums up the big points so you can grab the highlights fast.
- History Runs Deep: Tretorn started in 1891 as a rubber company in Sweden. They made boots first, then sneakers in 1900. That’s over 100 years of shoe making!
- Design Stands Out: These sneakers keep a classic look with clean lines and simple colors. People love the retro tennis shoe style.
- Comfort Gets Mixed Reviews: Many users say they feel great all day. Others mention the fit changed over time and might need sizing adjustments.
- Eco Friendly Options Exist: Some models, like the Nylite ‘67, use recycled materials and vegan leather. That’s a win for the planet.
- Durability Varies: Some pairs last years with care. Others wear out fast if you’re rough on them.
- Price Fits Mid Range: Most Tretorn sneakers cost between $50 and $80. They sit between cheap brands and high end labels.
- Versatile Style Works: You can wear them with jeans, shorts, or even dresses. They match lots of outfits.
- Sizing Can Trick You: Reviews suggest going half a size down. The fit runs big for many people.
This list gives you a taste of what’s coming. Now, let’s dive deeper into each part of the Tretorn story!
Tretorn’s History Kicks Off
Tretorn began in Sweden back in 1891. A family named Dunker started it as a rubber factory. They made rubber boots for farmers at first. The name “Tretorn” means “three towers” in Swedish. It comes from the factory’s castle like building with three exhaust towers.
Pretty cool, right? By 1900, they jumped into sneakers as sports grew popular. Tennis became a big deal, so they made their first tennis shoes. In 1902, they added tennis balls to the mix.
Fast forward to the 1950s, and Tretorn pumped out 7 million boots a year. That’s a lot of happy feet! Over time, they worked with famous designers and even sponsored tennis star Björn Borg in the 1970s. His Nylite sneakers became a hit in the US.
Today, Tretorn keeps that heritage alive with a modern spin. I love how they stick to their roots while updating the look. Knowing this backstory makes slipping on a pair feel like stepping into history.
Design Brings Retro Vibes
Tretorn sneakers catch your eye with their classic style. The Nylite model, launched in 1965, leads the pack. It has a sleek shape, white canvas, and a rubber toe cap. Simple, yet sharp. Other styles like Rawlins and Skymra mix things up with colors like navy or green. The clean lines scream timeless, and I’m a sucker for that preppy tennis vibe.
They don’t go overboard with flashy logos. The small “gullwing” detail on the side adds a subtle nod to the brand. Some newer pairs use vegan leather or suede like materials for a fresh twist. You can wear them casually or dress them up a bit.
Picture them with faded jeans or a summer dress. They fit right in. People online rave about the retro charm, and I get why. It’s like owning a piece of the past that still looks good today.
Comfort Levels Vary
How do Tretorn sneakers feel? It depends on who you ask. Many fans say they’re super comfy for daily wear. The Nylite Plus has extra padding around the ankle and footbed. Users call it cushy and great for walking. I’d love a pair that hugs my feet like that. Some models even use Ortholite insoles for more support.
But not everyone agrees. Older fans say the fit changed over the years. Back in the 1980s, they had terrycloth linings and a snug feel. Now, some find them too wide or loose. A Zappos reviewer said their size 7 felt huge compared to past pairs.
Others mention stiffness at first, needing a break in period. If comfort tops your list, try them on first or read sizing tips. They’re solid for casual use, but maybe not for long runs.
Durability Holds Up (Mostly)
Tretorn sneakers last if you treat them right. Canvas models like the Nylite clean up easy in the wash. One user on Trustpilot said their pair stayed strong after years of wear. That’s impressive for a lightweight shoe. The rubber soles grip well and don’t wear down fast on pavement.
However, some folks report issues. A Reddit user said their pair fell apart quickly, blaming thin materials. Rough use, like biking or hiking, might tear the uppers. Linen versions look cool but could snag easier than canvas.
It seems durability depends on how you use them. For everyday strolling, they hold their own. If you’re hard on shoes, they might not keep up as long.
Eco Friendly Features Shine
Tretorn cares about the planet, and I’m here for it. The Nylite ‘67 uses recycled cotton canvas and natural rubber soles. They swap leather for Apple Skin, a vegan material made from apple leftovers. How clever is that? It cuts waste and keeps things animal free. Some raincoats in their line even use recycled fishing nets.
Shoppers on their site praise this green approach. It’s not just talk, either. The brand’s been tweaking products for 125 years to stay sustainable. Not every model goes eco, though. Classics like the Nylite Plus stick to traditional materials. If you want shoes with a lighter footprint, check the ‘67 line. It’s a small step, but it feels good to wear.
Price Hits the Sweet Spot
Tretorn sneakers won’t break the bank. Most pairs range from $50 to $80. That puts them above budget brands like Vans but below pricey names like Adidas Stan Smiths. I think it’s a fair deal for the style and history you get. Online sales can drop them to $25 or $30, especially at Zappos or Amazon.
Shipping’s free in the US for orders over $70 on their site. Returns cost $9, though, so double check sizing. Compared to $100+ sneakers, Tretorn offers solid value. You pay for a mix of quality and heritage, not just a logo. If you hunt deals, they’re even sweeter. For mid range kicks, they strike a nice balance.
Sizing Needs Attention
Sizing trips up some buyers. Tretorn sneakers often run big. Reviews on Shopbop and Zappos suggest going half a size down. A user said their usual 8.5 felt like a 9, too long and wide. That’s a bummer if you guess wrong. Older fans note the fit shifted from the snug 1980s versions.
Width varies too. People with narrow feet find them too roomy, while wide feet folks love the space. The brand’s site has a size chart, but trying them in store helps most. If you order online, expect a possible return. It’s not a dealbreaker, just a heads up to size smart.
Style Pairs with Everything
Tretorn sneakers shine in versatility. The white Nylite looks crisp with shorts or chinos. Colored options like green or denim jazz up plain outfits. I’d rock them with a sundress for a fun twist. They lean casual but flex into semi dressy looks too.
Online chatter loves their preppy edge. A Reddit post called them perfect for summer with khakis. They’re not as sporty as Nikes, so skip them for workouts. For coffee runs or picnics, though, they nail it. The simple design lets your clothes take center stage while adding a cool vibe.
Customer Feedback Tells All
People have lots to say about Tretorn. On Trustpilot, they score 4 stars from 273 reviews. Fans praise the comfy fit and fast customer service. One buyer got a free replacement for leaky boots. That’s top notch support! Zappos reviews glow about the retro style too.
Not all feedback sparkles. Some call the quality “cheap” compared to the 1980s. A few got blisters from stiff heels at first. It’s a mixed bag, but most agree the look wins. Digging through comments online shows love for the brand’s vibe, even if the fit takes tweaking.
Where to Buy Them Easy
You can snag Tretorn sneakers lots of places. Their official site, us.tretorn.com, offers free shipping over $70. Zappos stocks tons of styles with fast delivery. Amazon has deals, sometimes under $40. I’d start there for bargains. Big retailers like Nordstrom carry them too.
Check return policies wherever you shop. Tretorn’s site charges $9 to send back, but Zappos does it free. Stock varies, so hunt around if you want a specific color. Online’s your best bet, though some shoe stores might have them. It’s easy to find a pair that fits your budget.
My Final Thoughts
So, are Tretorn sneakers worth it? I say yes, with a caveat. They bring killer style and decent comfort for the price. The eco friendly angle adds bonus points. I’d grab a pair for casual days out. But watch the sizing and don’t expect heavy duty wear.
They’re not perfect. Durability falters if you’re tough on shoes, and the fit might need guesswork. Still, for $50 to $80, you get a slice of Swedish history that looks dope. If you dig retro kicks with a modern edge, give Tretorn a shot. They’ve got charm and chill vibes in spades.
FAQs
Do Tretorn Sneakers Run True to Size?
No, they often run big. Most reviews suggest sizing down half a size for a better fit.
Are Tretorn Sneakers Good for Wide Feet?
Yes, many users with wide feet find them comfy. Narrow feet folks might feel they’re too loose.
Can You Wash Tretorn Sneakers?
Yes, canvas models wash well in a machine. They keep their shape if air dried.
How Long Do Tretorn Sneakers Last?
It varies. With light use, they can last years. Heavy wear might wear them out in months.
Are Tretorn Sneakers Waterproof?
No, most aren’t. They’re breathable but not built for rain. Check their rain boots instead.

Mia Smith is the founder of Shoe Storyteller, a blog that celebrates the art and stories behind shoes. With a passion for fashion and a flair for storytelling, Mia brings a unique perspective to the world of footwear.
