Sneakers have gained increased popularity in the last few decades. A staple in almost every man’s wardrobe, these comfort shoes have come a long way. Primarily designed for physical exercises like running or jogging, mens sneakers now go beyond their primary utility. A staple in modern fashion, they come in a variety of shapes, designs, colours, prints, and finishes. From top-performing athletes to performing artists, fashion models, and college kids, you will find almost everyone sporting mens sneakers. Some people (referred to as sneakerheads) love them to the point that they maintain a refined collection of sneakers from their favourite brands and trade them. Now the question is – why are sneakers so popular and people’s beloved footwear choice? Let us explore the history of sneakers and what benefits they serve, making them a must-have for your ensemble.
History of Sneakers: From Sportswear to Everyday Wear
The earliest sneakers were made by the Liverpool Rubber Company in the 1870s and were recognized as the first rubber-soled shoes. Sneakers became quite popular in the 1920s when they were introduced into sports, especially basketball. The All-Star Converse shoes gained popularity when the basketball player Chuck Taylor endorsed them. People started wearing these mens sneakers beyond the basketball field, such as for music, skateboarding, streetwear, and ultimately everyday wear. Another eventful event in the history of sneakers is when Nike’s Michael Jordan Air Force Sneaker entered the market in 1985. Many people wanted to wear the much-coveted mens sneakers as their idol, Jordan. Many rappers, musicians, and rock and punk artists such as Joe Strummer, Kurt Cobain, and Billie Armstrong turned sneakers into pop-culture fashion accessories. Since then, these cool footwear have come a long way and have only become a part of almost every fashion outfit.
6 Reasons Why Sneakers are Everyone’s Go-to Choice
Sneakers are not only gorgeous but such a fashion accessory that is versatile, stylish, and super comfortable. There are many reasons why buying not one, two, or many pairs of mens sneakers never seems to be enough. Here are a few reasons why sneakers are everyone’s favourite option:
1. Wide Variety
There is no doubt that you can find an endless range of options in mens sneakers. These shoes come in low tops, high ankles, innumerable colours, fabrics, patterns, etc. Owning two to three sets and pairing them up with multiple outfits is enough to pull off a cool look. This is another reason why men love sneakers. They are a hassle-free option where you don’t have to worry about mismatched pairs of shoes and outfits. Many of them conveniently go well with any casuals you own.
2. High Comfort Level
Sneakers are one of the most comfortable types of footwear you could ever ask for. This is one of the major reasons why, no matter what the occasion, men love to pull out their sneakers from their wardrobe. These shoes are breathable and do not retain moisture from the air. The low dampness levels prevent the possibility of bacterial growth and, thus, any infections. They are also lightweight and enable easy movement of your feet as you walk, jog, or run. With the right pair of mens sneakers, your feet stay secure, and there are no toe distortions due to heavy weight or scouring.
3. Advanced Features
Sneakers are not appealing merely for their look and comfort but also due to the technological advancements they have seen. Since athletes frequently wear them, brands keep working on the comfort and performance aspects of mens sneakers. The specifics of arch support, cushioning, motion control, etc., are some key factors people consider when purchasing these shoes. Many brands also manufacture sneakers with sustainable materials, making them a hit among eco-friendly consumers.
4. Versatile Use
Sneakers are so versatile that they go with different types of outfits for many occasions. If you need to attend a friend’s party or go shopping, pair them up with a casual outfit, and you are ready. If you need to cross-train, run, or jump, you can wear sneakers. If you need to style yourself for a casual photoshoot, sport them for a cool look.
5. Support a Range of Activities
One of the major concerns of athletes and trainers is being able to undertake training or play their sports without having to worry about getting injured. Some of the best mens sneakers are designed in a way that you can easily walk, run, and jump with ample support and comfort for a variety of activities. The cushioning, arch support, slip resistance, and foot support offered by sneakers, especially during strenuous activities, are of high utility in sports. Depending on the sport you play or to maximise your performance, you may need to buy dedicated shoes for that particular activity. But then, this is just another reason to stock up on different pairs of mens sneakers in your wardrobe.
6. Some Sneakers are an Exclusive Find
Some people, especially sneakerheads, love owning shoes that are exclusive. Sneakers sometimes come in limited editions. While many brands sell mens sneakers at affordable prices, some brands sell them at an exorbitant price. Wearing sneakers that are rare to find and scarce in quantity puts men on a higher social pedestal because of a perceived status symbol of exclusivity. This, in turn, brings psychological and emotional comfort. It’s no wonder that sneakers are one of the most-bought luxury items in the 21st century.
Conclusion
Not many people want to go through long hours of the dilemma of having to pick the right shoes. This is why you often find mens sneakers as a staple fashion accessory in people’s wardrobes. These shoes have come a long way from just being sports shoes to everyday wear shoes. They are comfortable and casual, giving you a trendy look while fitting well and providing foot support in various activities. These breathable shoes prevent your feet from infections and unpleasant odours. You can walk around, run, and train comfortably in your sneakers without worrying about injuries. There is no other footwear you can wear without much thought on multiple occasions and mix and match with several outfits. It’s only natural why mens sneakers are widely popular and loved by people.
