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NY’s Sneaker Scene Soars | Urban Sole Mag

In the vibrant tapestry of New York’s cultural history, one thread stands out vividly – Pony. Born in 1972 on the bustling streets of Manhattan, Pony has not just been a footwear brand; it has become a living chronicle of the city’s spirit. At the helm of this journey was the enigmatic Roberto Muller, a charismatic entrepreneur who, with a dash of rebellious flair, catapulted Pony into the global sneaker limelight.

A Visionary’s Gamble

Roberto Muller, a Uruguay-born visionary, founded Pony in 1972 – a time when the sneaker industry was still finding its footing. Muller, a maverick who lived life by the seat of his pants, envisioned a future where casual sportswear would dominate wardrobes globally. This foresight, while seemingly obvious now, was a bold gamble in an era when the concept of ‚lifestyle‘ barely existed.

The late ’60s set the stage for monumental events, and in 1969, Pony’s roots were taking hold. Muller, undeterred by the conventional trajectory of the athletic industry, pitched his idea to investors, and thus, Pony was born. At a time when sports shoes were confined to courts and tracks, Muller dared to envision them as a streetwear staple.

Thinking Big, Staying Ahead

Thinking big wasn’t just a motto for Muller; it was a way of life. His impact extended beyond Pony, including a pivotal role in commercializing the Olympics and World Cup soccer. Muller also pioneered lucrative endorsement deals, elevating professional sportsmen to new heights. Pony, under Muller’s guidance, was relentless in innovation, introducing a secret inflatable cushioning system years before the iconic Reebok Pump.

Research labs in multiple locations emphasized Pony’s commitment to staying ahead of the competition. The brand became synonymous with pushing the performance envelope, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in the athletic world.

The Entertainers: A Unique Roster

Pony’s roster of athletes in the ’70s and ’80s reads like a who’s who of sports and entertainment. Muller believed in the power of individuals, entertainers, and iconoclasts. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about embodying the spirit of Pony. Athletes were not just players; they were team players, aligning with Muller’s conviction that the true sporting spirit shines brightest in teamwork.

In the world of football, Franco Harris made history with the ‚Immaculate Reception‘ in 1972, wearing Pony cleats that secured the Steelers‘ first-ever playoff victory. The Oakland Raiders, embodying Pony’s freewheeling ethos, claimed victory in Super Bowl XI in 1976, further cementing the brand’s place in American sports history.

Baseball Legends and Basketball Royalty

Pony’s influence extended to the baseball diamond, where Hank Aaron, an icon in his own right, wore Pony on his way to a home run record. In the ’70s, Reggie Jackson, Mr. October himself, represented Pony during his time with the New York Yankees, causing a sensation wherever he went.

Basketball, however, became Pony’s true arena of dominance. With a reported roster of 200 NBA stars, Pony adorned the feet of legends like Wilt Chamberlain, Bob McAdoo, and John Havlicek. The memorable highlight came in 1986 when Spud Webb, standing at 5ft 7in, defied the odds to win the NBA Slam Dunk contest in his City Wings – a testament to Pony’s ethos of defying expectations.

Beyond the Courts and Fields

Pony’s influence wasn’t limited to mainstream sports. The brand, with its inventive approach, targeted football-mad states with a seeding campaign that introduced ‚The Stud,‘ a cleated-turf-trainer-hybrid-boot that became a fashion sensation. In New York, Pony was the first brand to actively engage at a local amateur level, sponsoring the iconic Rucker Tournament. Simultaneously, Pony reps were supporting promising up-and-coming athletes with free sneakers, a groundbreaking marketing innovation at the time.

Venturing into soccer, Pony left an indelible mark by ensuring Pelé wore Pony during his time with the New York Cosmos. The brand also signed Paolo Rossi, who led Italy to victory in the 1982 FIFA World Cup.

From the Ring to the Streets

Pony’s influence wasn’t confined to traditional sports. In boxing, Larry Holmes, Leon Spinks, and even the legendary Muhammad Ali floated across the canvas in Pony gear. Olympic gold medalist Mary Lou Retton tumbled her way to fame with Pony emblazoned on her leotard. Tennis saw Pony signing Tracy Austin, a US Open champion, along with Roscoe Tanner and Mark Edmonson.

Delving into the counterculture, Pony embraced skateboarding, evident in a Thrasher magazine cover featuring Jesse Martinez sporting Pony hightops. Hip-hop and Pony intertwined, with the brand becoming a symbol in Manhattan’s burgeoning b-boy and double dutch scene. Models like the MVP, Slam Dunk, Pro 80, Starter, and City Wings donned vibrant colorways, capturing the disco-era street style.

The Disco Era and Beyond

As the disco era waned, Pony adapted to the changing times. In 1986, Muller reluctantly sold his share of the company to Horst Dassler, marking a shift in Pony’s trajectory. Over the years, Pony changed hands, gradually losing its mojo.

But now, over four decades since its inception, Pony is making a comeback. With its New York attitude rekindled and the founder’s blessing, the authentic sports brand is poised to reclaim its position in the sneaker landscape.

A Legacy Revived

Pony’s journey is more than a tale of athletic achievements; it’s a narrative of resilience, innovation, and the unyielding spirit of New York. As Pony prepares to script a new chapter in its storied history, it stands as a symbol of unwavering determination, ready to captivate a new generation. The brand’s legacy endures, a testament to its enduring impact on sports fashion.

In conclusion, Pony’s return signals not just a revival but a reaffirmation of its place in the heart of New York’s sneaker scene. With each step, Pony strides confidently into the future, honoring its past while embracing the ever-evolving landscape of sports and style.

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