The Most Exciting Sneaker Trends of 2021

[Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-woman-shopping-for-a-rubber-shoes-5698853/] 

After a year of stay-at-home clothes, style has returned to the streets in full force. From chunky dad soles to sustainable skate shoes, it’s exciting to see the direction that sneakers are moving in. Sneakers have never been more popular than they are today and there are lots of innovative new  designs to prove it. 

Classic, versatile, and downright comfortable, sneakers are a staple in everyone’s wardrobe. The following trends from this year not only switch things up from the mundane white sneaker, but signal a shift in mindset towards more conscious methods of sneaker production.

Retro Kicks

Throwback style trends, including chunky-soled and track style sneakers have been having a resurgence in popularity this year, peaking during the warm months of summer. As a result, vintage-inspired sneakers are everywhere with modern twists. From neutral-hued New Balances to a classic Converse, you can’t step away from the old school vibes.

Special Editions

This year, there have been a ton of reinventions of classics, like Nike Air Force 1s with special edition features. While people used to only own one pair of sneakers for athletic activities, now most people have at least a few pairs of sneakers. As shoe closets expand, it’s nice to have one or two standout pairs of special edition kicks to wear when you feel like making a statement. Many of the special editions are created as a collaboration with an artist or high profile designer, blending art, culture, and fashion into one incredible pair of shoes.

Classic Canvas

While understated canvas shoes are always in style, they have been particularly trendy this summer as people seek outfits that blend style with comfort. White canvas sneakers are a staple in the warmer months, but this year, we’ve seen everything from floral prints to polka dotted canvas shoes. Whether you prefer a more delicate, low-profile silhouette or high tops, there’s a canvas sneaker to get you through the season in style.

Performance Designs

An elevated version of your running shoe, performance sneakers are making waves this year. They fall at the intersection of athletics and fashion, meaning these sneakers are sleek and aerodynamic while also looking cool enough to wear with your favorite ‘fits. These versatile sneakers often have great support and a unique look.

High Tops

High top sneakers, which were originally introduced as a new type of basketball shoe in the 1980s, have had a huge comeback this summer. Brands like Converse are cool again, so add some of their classic kicks to your closet and you’ll be at the height of style.

Sustainable Materials

Another innovation that has hit the markets recently is the growth of sustainable practices and materials. Responsible for 1.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the sneaker industry has an enormous carbon footprint. This is due to multiple factors, including the materials used in many sneakers, the fact that sneakers are often made of many parts, and the use of toxic chemicals during production. Fortunately, as the world wakes up to the realities of climate change and pollution, many companies are shifting to create sneakers that are eco-friendly. Some sustainable materials being used by sneaker companies include wool, eucalyptus, bamboo, organic cotton canvas, and bio-based vegan leather.

Whether on the weekends or at work, the sneaker trends of 2021 make a style statement while still being comfy. The growth in popularity of sneakers isn’t slowing down, so we expect that more and more companies will take measures to implement more sustainable practices. Hopefully, this industry can make a positive impact on both our wardrobes and the planet.

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Chloe Kirby is a writer and digital marketing professional. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree at McGill University in Montreal, Canada and her Master’s Degree at Goldsmiths University in London, England. Chloe has professional experience in e-commerce, digital marketing, and copywriting. For the last year she has been working in New York City.