Forbes India – Fashion: Don’t Ignore the Sneaker Trend Just yet

Sneakers should still reign supreme in both men’s and women’s wardrobes in 2022.
Image: O Lypa / Getty Images

Asneakers are really over? While the “right” shoes—mostly flat—seem to be making a comeback, calling the end of the sneakers might be a bit premature. On the other hand, the proliferation of resale platforms and specialty auctions for sneakers shows that these sneakers still reign supreme in the fashion world. A new study has even found that sneakers are now the shoe of choice for British office workers.

The internet has been buzzing for a few days now, telling anyone who cares to listen that the sneakers are on their way out. So, after being blown away by their comfort, their practicality, and their mind-boggling adaptability to suit all kinds of looks, should we see them snatched away once we’re all healthy and totally addicted? There’s no way that would happen! And luckily, sneakers don’t seem to be going anywhere yet.

New workwear staples

After being in the spotlight for several years, the sneakers saw their popularity grow with the pandemic, as the world shifted to more comfortable clothing. The phenomenon affects both men and women, who, in general, prefer less restrictive clothing and shoes than previous styles to return to the office. Sneakers have even become a star item of the work wardrobe. According to a study by Shoeaholics, reported by The Guardian, two in three Britons now wear sneakers to work—a number that doesn’t seem to indicate the end of the iconic sports shoe reign.

“The pandemic has accelerated the trend, with fewer people required to be in formal offices every day. But even those returning to the formal workplace are increasingly confident of wearing styles of shoes that were considered unacceptable just a few years ago. ,” explains Mark Hoyal-Mitchell, head of Shoeaholics.

As seen in recent months, the sneaker trade has become a mainstream activity, with teenagers and young adults being the sector’s main addicts. Not satisfied with finding followers around the world, sneakers have become a hot property among young people, to the point of making fanatics. Reports presented by British newspapers reveal that most British workers own at least seven pairs of sneakers, wearing them in all situations, whether in the office, at parties or running. One in four workers reportedly admit to having up to 10 pairs in their wardrobe. Plus, the average person in the UK appears to have a £474 (approximately $636) “coach’s wardrobe”. That’s a lot of money to invest in endangered species.

Sales records

Stock X, Wethenew, and Kikikickz are some of the (very) many platforms where users can buy and resell sneakers. Such sites have proliferated at a rapid rate in recent years. And you only have to visit one of these three websites to see that you can make real money reselling rare models or styles from the most coveted collaborations. On the latter two, the Air Jordan 1 High Dior is priced at €8,000 (about $9,045)—a neat amount—while many models are listed on Stock X for five-figure sums.

Although reserved for a more limited clientele, the sneaker auction also created a new expert in the collector’s world. One of the most iconic pairs worn by Michael Jordan was recently auctioned off for nearly $1.5 million. So, in the end, while smart shoes—loafers, boots, and stilettos on the front—are almost certain to return to fashion, it’s unlikely that sneakers will be going anywhere anytime soon.