2018 was a big year for sneakers and as it turns out, the fashion sneaker trend isn’t going anywhere fast. From chunky dad inspired kicks to throwback running shoes, these are the trainers you should be investing in for 2019.
Louis Vuitton Run Away Pulse Sneaker
Riding on the popularity of the women’s Archlight, the men’s equivalent Louis Run Away Pulse is made for the rugged guy with a preference for a hiking boot-style sneaker. Designed with metal eyelets for the two-tone laces as well as an augmented black rubber sole, the shoe is available in several variations including the one pictured here in iconic monogram patent canvas. We’ll be running away with a pair of these kicks for sure.
Balenciaga Triple S
Having built on the popularity of its debut during the fashion house’s AW17 show in Paris, Balenciaga’s Triple S sneaker now boasts countless iterations and is credited with kick-starting today’s “ugly” sneaker trend. Described as “heavy-duty, high fashion-spec footwear” by Balenciaga designer Demna Gvasalia, the shoes offer a clunky silhouette with an elaborated sole composed of three different layers. They are available in myriad colourways including the latest “split” versions.
Versace Chain Reaction
Versace’s Chain Reaction sneaker was designed to embody the strongest elements of the brand’s identity including its lightweight, chain-linked rubber sole that takes inspiration from iconic Versace chain jewellery. First seen on the label’s AW18 runway, it only took a matter of months for them to become an incredibly sought-after style.
Jimmy Choo Diamond
Born from the idea of how it would feel to step into a multi-faceted diamond, playing with the sense of lightness and clarity the different angles reflect, Jimmy Choo’s Diamond sneaker is a luxury offering perfect for those wanting something more streamlined while still making a statement. Developed and designed in Italy, the shoe features a flat classic shape that is inlaid with an innovative transparent diamond-inspired sole, so your feet can literally ‘shine bright like a diamond’.
Alexander McQueen Exaggerated Sole Sneakers
The aptly named Exaggerated Sole Sneaker from Alexander McQueen is instantly recognisable thanks to its larger-than-life rubber sole which measures approximately 45mm (because let’s be honest, bigger really is better). The ultimate “dad sneaker”, the shoe also features the brand’s signature leopard print design on the bottom of the sole and the Alexander McQueen logo.
Gucci Flashtrek Sneakers
Inspired by the hiking world and designed with an oversize shape sole, Gucci’s Flashtrek sneakers are perfectly on trend without being too practical. The shoes feature a mix of upscale leather, suede, and canvas panels in various shades, as well as an ultra-rugged rubber sole and a bright red rubber Gucci logo on the tongue – ensuring they look just as good walking on slick city streets as they do on muddy hiking trails.
Prada Cloudbust
Redefining the season’s sports-luxe aesthetic, Prada’s Cloudbust sneaker was released alongside the re-launch of its beloved 90s cult sports line, Linea Rossa, and offers a design that’s part throwback trainer, part futuristic running shoe. The style features a bold Velcro fastening front strap, rubber panels, and a glossy bubble mid-sole that provides expert cushioning and comfort.
Dior Oblique B23 high-top sneaker
For his first collection for the brand, Dior’s menswear artistic director Kim Jones successfully married streetwear and sophistication by enlisting a team of collaborators and playing with elements of transparency, as seen on the B23 high-top canvas trainers. The iconic Dior logo is covered with an opaque, plastic outer-layer, while the sole boasts patchwork elements.
Chanel Sneakers
These days the fashion crowd are just as obsessed with Chanel’s logo sneakers as they are with the Parisian brand’s iconic handbags. Crafted from a mixture of wool, nylon, lambskin and suede calfskin, the trainers feature an interlocking “CC” logo on the heel, accompanied by Chanel branding which has been etched into the side panel. The waffle-inspired rubber sole also has the “CC” logo imprinted on the bubbles and there are four chic colourways to choose from.