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For decades, “sneakers” or “trainers” have described something vaguely athletic related. These could be strictly a casual shoe once used for playing a sport – think Converse high-tops – or a skate style adapted to more everyday use. To one end, you have the glossy leather-topped dress sneaker, and on the other, the more technical running shoe, trail runner, and cross-trainer. All, if you’re looking for visual similarities, start with a paneled upper composed of a mix of leather, mesh, or textile. A lace-up vamp provides a closer fit – although this isn’t always a requirement. The toe will typically have a more rounded to sloped appearance. Finally, the sole unit and treads consider movement – from traction to impact absorption. Still, considering this range, it’s easy to end up with a pair of sneakers that are insufficient for the job – for instance, attempting to run laps in Vans – or overkill – like technical features when all you need is a more comfortable fit. This disconnect can lead to orthopedic issues and potentially contribute to an injury like a rolled ankle or shin splints. As such, whether you’re solely focused on style or thinking about the gym, here’s what to look for as you shop around:
