TRAINERS. The shrewd judgement of social class. If you had the latest pair then you were one cool cat.

From Adidas Gazelles in the 1960s to Reebok Classics in the 1980s, allow the Birmingham Mail’s Ashley Preece to roll back the years as he digs out the most iconic trainers ever.

If there are any trainers you feel should be on the Top Ten then let us know in the comments section provided. To see the caption for each shoe, click ‘show caption’ on the gallery.

Nike Cortez

Simple, smart and come in whole host of colours.

Hearken back to the track-running heyday, this contemporary update of the timeless 1972 classic was one of Nike’s first.

Like many classics on this list the Nike Cortez relaunched itself during the 1990s.

Adidas Micropacer

With a built-in pedometer that worked out not only the distance you’d run, but the calories you’d burnt, the Adidas Micropacer deserves a mention.

The silver leather gives these trainers a space age feel and if this Top Ten was on looks, they’d be somewhere in orbit. Well and truly hideous.

Nike Shox

Four spring-like cushions on the heel offering unbelievable comfort, Shox were a revolutionary sports shoe.

Although much bigger in America than here, Nike Shox has to feature on the Top Ten because of their wow factor.

Shox aren’t the prettiest of trainers but they were perfect for exercise, and in particular, running. You may also associate these trainers with the ‘Chavs’ who hang around street corners, this, however, was because they went rather ravishingly with tracksuit bottoms.

Adidas Forest Hills

The Forest Hills, originally released in the 1970s, from Adidas Originals were named after the famous Tennis centre in Queens, New York. They quickly grew in popularity in the UK during the football terrace scene in the 1980s.

This casual pair of footwear were re-released a few years ago after the popularity of football hooligan films such as The Football Factory, The Firm and Green Street.

Forest Hills represent a culture.

>>For the rest of the top ten, see the next page