I’ve always been against trainers, but this trendy sneaker style has changed my mind.

      I have something to admit. Although I’m an experienced fashion writer, there are certain articles of clothing that don’t really capture my attention. Whether it's due to personal taste or my own preferences, sneakers are a type of footwear that rarely find a place in my wardrobe. There are some exceptions, of course. On occasions such as a weekend stroll in London’s lush parks or a Pilates class before work, wearing these practical flats is almost a necessity. Outside of these instances, my interaction with sneakers is largely restricted to reporting on the hottest trainer styles of the season or discussing the latest designer collaborations, like the Jacquemus X Nike Moon shoe or Cecilie Bahnsen x Asics Gel-Cumulus sneaker. However, that changed when I discovered the trend of stylish low-profile trainers.

      As the term implies, low-profile trainers are characterized by a specific design that sits lower across the ankle and is made to stay close to the ground. With their sleek silhouette and streamlined form, these shoes have quickly surpassed bulkier designs and high-tops as the preferred trainers of the moment. But what is it about this style that has captured my interest when so many others have not? If I were to analyze my own preferences, I would likely say that it’s the understated manner in which they challenge traditional sports designs that draws me in. Unlike other sneakers that prominently highlight their athletic performance, these more slender options subtly avoid overt displays of their physical activity purpose. Instead, their relaxed shape almost aligns them with ballet flats, loafers, or slim boots, offering enhanced support and comfort.

      The low-cut trainer trend can be traced back to the Miu Miu X New Balance 530 SL suede trainer, first revealed during the luxury brand’s spring/summer 2024 collection presentation at Paris Fashion Week. That same season, Dries Van Noten showcased his final collection as the creative director of his namesake brand, gifting us with his sought-after leather-trimmed trainers.

      Now, practically every prominent designer label has created its own viral version. Last summer, both Harry Styles and Jacob Elordi sparked excitement online with their endorsements of the Maison Margiela Sprinter sneakers. Following that, Prada debuted its version with the lightweight and elasticated Collapse trainer, albeit without the steel-cap trim seen on the runway. These releases have even influenced high-street brands, with retailers such as COS and Anthropologie launching their own interpretations featuring faux pony-hair textures or sporty piping.

      And while these designs have even swayed the most skeptical critics of elevated trainers, you don’t have to just take my word for it. With celebrity endorsements and a plethora of appealing styles available to shop now, embracing this trend won’t require much effort.

      As Carrie Bradshaw once mentioned, shopping is my cardio, so take her advice and continue scrolling for the most stylish low-profile trainers on the market.

      Shop the Low-Profile Trainer Trend:

      **Anthropologie**

      Maeve Low Profile Trainers

      Fuse the low-profile trainer trend with luxurious suede for a polished look.

      **COS**

      Minimal Leather Trainers

      How exquisite is this mocha hue?

      **JACQUEMUS**

      Les Tennis Leather-Trimmed Ribbed Suede Sneakers

      Corduroy is one of autumn’s top trouser trends, and Jacquemus has beautifully adapted this understated fabric to a retro shape.

      **A more budget-friendly option compared to the Prada version.**

      Snake print is among the season’s hottest patterns, and this style with a curved toe and contrast laces elevates a high-street find.

      **& Other Stories**

      Suede-Detail Trainers

      These resemble something you might easily find at Toteme.

      **COS**

      Minimal Pony Hair Trainers

      After trying this pair on during Who What Wear UK's The Great Try On series, I've completely fallen for this textured design.

      **MAISON MARGIELA**

      Sprinter Leather and Brushed Suede-Trimmed Shell Sneakers

      If your budget permits, investing in this Maison Margiela pair is a wise choice.

      **COS**

      Minimal Leather Trainers

      While the red top trend has its appeal, contrasting your outfit with vibrant red trainers offers another way to infuse color into your style.

      **WALES BONNER**

      Leather Sneakers

      Wales Bonner gained visibility in the sneaker world through its Adidas collaboration, but I lean towards the brand's singular offerings.

      **PUMA**

      Speedcat Faded Sneakers Unisex

      **PUMA**

      Speedcat Suede Ballet Shoes Women

      **ADIDAS ORIGINALS**

      Japan W Perforated Leather Sneakers

      The contrasting emerald-green stripes elegantly embrace jewel tones.

      **DRIES VAN NOTEN**

      Leather-Trimmed Suede Sneakers

      With a nod to the past, these trainers from Dries Van Noten have established themselves as modern classics.

      **DRIES VAN NOTEN**

      Leather-Trimmed Shell Sneakers

      Elevate your style with this futuristic satin-effect shell fabric.

      **Prada**