In any other decade, men would have been given the side-eye for walking into a serious establishment wearing a pair of kicks that look more appropriate in the gym than a posh bar. But times have changed and sneakers have been elevated in the sartorial realm.
This is due to the growing popularity of athleisure and streetwear, two aesthetics dominating men’s fashion today. It might be because we're are choosing comfort over anything else, but that’s not saying that the current collections of sneakers aren’t fashionable.
If you’re a sneakerhead or an aspiring style savant, here are some shoe trends you may want to keep on your radar and where to get them.
1| Chunky Sneakers Forever
Balenciaga Multicolored Triple S Sneaker
Prada Thunder Mesh and Rubber Sneakers
Like it or not, chunky sneakers or dad shoes are here to stay. Ever since this style found its sartorial footing in previous years, it has become more experimental in shape and color. To a certain extent, it has also become the statement piece an outfit needs to boost its style status. Ask any sneaker enthusiast or street savant, they’ll probably own either Balenciaga’s cult Triple S or Prada’s utilitarian lug-soled Thunder sneakers, both of which pair well with neutral colors or off-duty denim.
2| '80s Neon Explosion
Nike Zoom KD12
Adidas Women Originals Ozweego Shoes
Neon always finds its way back into our closets, whether in shoes, clothes, or even accessories. This season, expect a new type of statement sneakers in stores that are heavily characterized by bright, bold, and big ‘80s-inspired styles. Sneaker big leagues Nike, Adidas, Converse, and Fila are all working on producing styles influenced by the trend.
3| Made for Movement
APL Men's TechLoom Pro
APL Women's TechLoom Pro
When it comes to sneakers you can actually move in, it’s not enough that they’re built for functionality alone. They also have to look good at the gym and on the streets. You can never go wrong with athletic shoe giants Nike and Adidas, but consider also emerging brand APL Athletic Propulsion Labs for more innovative, technically refined designs like its TechLoom Pro mesh sneakers.
4| Power of Collabs
V-Knit Veja X Rick Owens Dust Black
Veja V-10 Vegan White Petale
What could be better than two creative minds joining forces and blending their signature styles into one awesome product? For the most part, the most hyped-up drops are those that push sartorial boundaries, blurring the lines between high-end and high-street. This season, one of the exciting collabs we’re watching out for is designer Rick Owens' work with sustainable sneaker brand Veja: a sleek minimalist shoe made from recycled plastic bottles and vegan leather.
5| Sustainability is the Key
Adidas x Parley
Veja Womens 3-Lock Logo Sneakers
Tread the Trainer
The fashion industry is the second-largest polluter in the world. It’s great though that there are now discussions surrounding the issue and companies are collectively taking a sustainable approach to their products. We can do our part and opt for sneakers made with premium natural materials that help reduce carbon footprint. The Adidas x Parley collab is made using plastic salvaged from the ocean, while Tread’s The Trainer uses less energy, less waste, and 54 percent less virgin plastic. If you’re into classic styles, Veja’s 3-Lock Logo Rubber-Trimmed Leather Sneakers are made from ethically sourced leather.
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