Are Sneakers Fashionable Again?

Fashion trends come and go, but the good old sneakers don’t. Sure, they aren’t often the most luxurious items in one’s wardrobe. This type of shoe has built its name and fame by emphasizing comfort and practicality, often at the expense of looks. However, the tides are changing.

From the infamously bulky dad shoes to young-like models, sneakers have always been informal. That’s why most luxury brands have sidelined them for so long, but not anymore; there are plenty of men’s high end sneakers around these days. Here’s how the once-frowned-upon model has returned to the spotlight.

Walking a Long Way

Sneakers have been around for a while. They’re often linked to modern and edgy streetwear outfits, but the first model was released in the mid-19th century. It didn’t take long for athletes to realize the potential of these rubber-soled shoes. The trend started with croquet players in the 1860s, quickly conquering popular taste.

More than a century later, they’re still the favorite option of most athletes for training, but not only so. Sneakers are so comfortable that they have become the go-to option for everyday use in all age groups, from college students to professionals at work. Culturally, these shoes have acquired different meanings, too.

Edgy options have always been the top preference of most youngsters as a statement of style. Yet, the bulky (and often tasteless) design of the so-called “dad shoes” was long considered “uncool,” being virtually forgotten by luxury brands. Cultural trends change rapidly and frequently, though. The uncool has been made cool again by Millennials and Gen Zers who, apparently, can’t resist its nostalgic appeal.

There and Back Again

The sports world, which has been responsible for keeping the sneaker’s flame alive, is highly trendy now. People have been watching more sports than ever, and top athletes have become celebrities. There’s also a growing collective consciousness regarding the health benefits of exercising regularly.

Enter the concept of “athleisure,” or practicing sports for fun, appealing to a vast audience of amateur athletes. Artists and social media influencers further enhance their popularity, turning simple shoes into cultural objects of desire. Luxury brands quickly adapted to the new demands, bringing innovative designs and materials and, often, hefty price tags.

New cultural trends, mostly from younger generations, value comfort and practicality but aren’t willing to sacrifice style. Additionally, the versatility of classic sneakers has been pushing traditional boundaries, like when combined with suits. Recently, Rupert Murdoch has visited the White House wearing a high-end suit and (that’s right) sneakers.

What’s On

While sneakers have been out of fashion for a while, they’ve never been out of public taste. However, the fashion revival comes in different shapes and sizes. The sleek design of 1970s models is back, a vintage trend that also extends to 1990s designs; there are even futuristic options. The old dad shoes have also been made cool again by luxury brands. It’s such a big trend that market specialists have called it “sneakernomics.”