I remember getting a pair of Lottos in high school that lasted me almost my entire stint there.. they were way cheaper than whatever the most prominent Adidas and Nike/Jordans cost.
It's interesting. I admire so many sneaker styles from afar. But in my adult life, I haven't been able to make that jump into paying $80+ for a pair of sneakers, especially since I'm not a regular basketball player. Heh. And with all these customized jobs and limited editions coming out, I can't keep track even if I were of a mind to.
(Have Ponys or Etonics made a comeback?)