The Trainer Rules Are Officially Out The Window
I have to be honest, I've never really considered myself a sneakerhead. Forever a reminder of a childhood averse to anything even remotely athletic, it's only been in my adult years that I've come to appreciate the aesthetic appeal — and most importantly the comfort — of trainers. Or maybe it's because as high fashion intersected the streetwear and athleticwear space, the variety and innovation in design have resulted in a trainer for any time or occasion. While it might feel like an oversaturation in the market over recent years is a sign that the era of the trainer has passed, I've rounded up the latest releases that are proof it's just getting started.
Loewe x On, Cloudtilt
When you think about Loewe, it's creative director Jonathan Anderson's surreal runway spectacles that surely spring to mind. It might come as a surprise then that the mind behind the deflated balloon and make-up brush feels would make a trainer where function trumps form. That's exactly what Anderson did with his latest collaboration with Swiss performance brand On. Appropriately dubbed the Cloudtilt after On's patented CloudTec® computer-generated midsole that offers ultra-lightweight cushioning. Still, all these technological advances don't come at the cost of their overall look, with the seamless knitted sock construction in a range of monochromatic variations giving the streamlined design a sleek modern appeal that makes them perfect for fashion week and your morning marathons alike.
Autry, Reelwind
If there is one trainer trend that has stood the test of time it's undoubtedly the dad shoe. Typically characterised by their awkwardly chunky silhouette that maximises comfort over all else, these days the modern dad shoe is a lot sleeker than any real dad's pair. Case in point: the newly unveiled Reelwind from Autry. With the relaunch of their Medalist model three years ago the 80s American sportswear brand reentered the sneaker zeitgeist, nostalgia in tow. A revamped rendition of the classic running shoe, the Reelwind elevate its retro inspirations with sleek suede and nylon construction. Still, it's the signature starry accents, stripes and A-arrow sole that give the model a much-welcome throwback appeal.
MM6 Maison Margiela x Salomon, Cross Mid
Loewe isn't the only luxury brand relying on the expertise of a sportswear giant. MM6 Maison Margiela is continuing its collaboration with Saloman with the release of the Cross Mids. Inspired by their popular Cross Lines model, the Cross Mids amplify the fan favourite features, including an even beefier midsole that veers into boot territory. A trainer made for hiking, the Cross Mids feature a waterproof nylon upper that secures with a toggle fastening. Unlike anything else on the market (appropriate coming from Margiela), the hybrid style isn't one for fading into the background, and the bold colourways are testament to that.
Dior Men's, B57
Kim Jones is no stranger to looking to streetwear for inspiration. While his Air Jordan 1s are certified grails at this point, they aren't the only kicks worth coveting. Since being appointed Dior Men's artistic director in 2018, Jones has created a lineup of trainers bridging the worlds of streetwear and haute couture, with the B57s being his latest. The mid-top design revamps the classic basketball shoe with smooth calfskin panels and ultra-cushioned insoles. Of course, the real selling point is the embroidered oblique logo on the side.
Marni, Big Foot 2.0
The trainer for people who aren't the biggest fan of trainers, there is nothing sporty about Marni's Big Foot 2.0s. Function plays second fiddle to form with this design that belongs up in the clouds then running up and down the basketball court. First introduced as part of the Italian brand's A/W 23 collection, the style takes the chunky silhouette trend to the extreme with a maxi-sole and playfully padded silhouette. Crafted in soft nappa leather, the monochromatic design (in black or white) plays on Marni's creative
