8 sneaker trend predictions for 2025
The year 2024 is slowly but surely going to end. So, it's time to take a look into the crystal ball to find out which sneaker trends we'll be seeing on our feet in 2025.
One thing straight away: Even in 2025, we won't be able to avoid the adidas Samba or adidas Handball Spezial. These simple models with their timeless design were THE commercial success in 2024.
This brings us to the first trend, as many other brands have similar models in their archives and are now gradually launching them on the market. NORMCORE may sound a little boring at first glance. Normcore is characterized by preferring to belong to something rather than wanting to stand out from it. The term describes a coolness that strives for sameness. The trend is not necessarily a novelty in fashion, but the countless timeless sneaker models have given it a new impetus and, above all, a new approach. Many sneaker brands have models on offer that perfectly serve this Normcore trend. The Nike Field General or Nike Killshot, the Puma Palermo, the Asics Skyhand OG and the adidas Samba and Handball Spezial are the Normcore sneakers par excellence. Thanks to their subtle design and simple mix of materials, they can be perfectly combined with outfits from a wide range of influences.
What all these sneakers also have in common is their low-profile look. The sleek design of the LOW PROFILE trend has now set itself apart from chunky sneaker silhouettes. Another success for the trend is the variety of models. In addition to the classic indoor sneakers with gum soles, there are also retro running silhouettes such as the adidas SL 72. The adidas Japan also comes from the brand with the three stripes, which was previously only released as a women's sneaker. But it is not only in the 70s or 80s that brands are looking for silhouettes that they can revive. The fashion of the 1990s and 2000s is back and with it, of course, the matching sneakers. Puma is ahead of the pack in this case. The Puma Speedcat is an iconic sneaker from the 00s and was given a retro version in 2024. The sporty design was originally conceived for racing drivers, giving the model its unique silhouette. The sneaker hugs the foot and the thin sole rounds off the Puma Speedcat low-profile sneaker perfectly. The Puma Mostro also comes from the same company. Inspired by spike models, the model was launched in 1999 and is currently experiencing a second spring. The hybrid model with its iconic sole is definitely one of the most special in the wide field of low-profile sneakers.
Keyword HYBRID sneakers, because these will also be very fashionable in 2025. Hybrid sneakers will be available from many different brands, and some have already found their way onto the shelves. A hybrid sneaker consists of an upper and a sole, both of which are borrowed from different models. This creates exciting new sneaker silhouettes that perfectly embody the spirit of the respective models and brands.
With the Blokecore trend, which reached new heights in 2024, the TERRACE culture is also making a comeback and forming another sneaker trend for 2025. adidas in particular can cater to this trend and has the right sneaker models to choose from. The Terrace sneakers are primarily models worn by English football fans in the stands. It remains to be seen whether other brands will also recognize the trend and be able to serve it with models from their own portfolios.
2025 will be the year of BANGING COLORS for sneakers. However, this is not about combining as many colors as possible on one model. It's more about putting a bright, eye-catching color in the spotlight and possibly contrasting it with another one. It's time to get a little louder on your feet again and we'll be seeing more eye-catching colorways from now on.
Another prediction for the 2025 shoe trends is METALLIC sneakers. Many Y2K running sneakers from New Balance or Asics have at least metallic highlights on their models. However, there are also sneakers whose entire upper material is made from a shiny metallic synthetic leather upper. The Wales Bonner adidas Samba Silver has triggered a veritable hysteria and other brands are gradually adding sneaker models with metallic-looking uppers. Speaking of Y2K, former performance sneakers in particular have found their way into the lifestyle sector and have become an integral part of it.
A new sneaker trend for 2025 is REAL PERFORMANCE sneakers. This means that sneakers that are still developed for sporting activities are gradually finding their way into everyday fashion. If you remember the adidas UltraBOOST, something similar will happen in 2025. The sometimes highly technical sneakers will be combined with elegant outfits and presented in a new context. The technical details, such as cushioning, are also popular features away from the competition.
OUTDOOR TREKKING trainers are another category of performance trainers that have made the leap into the lifestyle sector. These models, specially designed for adventures in the great outdoors, are indeed the latest trend. Their special exterior makes them stand out visually from normal trainers. The Gorpcore trend has played a large part in the fact that outdoor sneakers are also being used for other purposes and have found their place in lifestyle. The special design and their durability have also contributed to their success.
