Whether You Adore Them or Dislike Them, Here Are 5 "Outdated" Sneaker Trends We're Putting on Hold for the Time Being.
Personally, I’m not fond of discussing outdated fashion trends. What is deemed stylish and on-trend is highly subjective. For example, the funnel-neck jackets that I adore may seem a bit outrageous to you, but for me, they represent the epitome of winter chic for 2025. This is why I fully endorse the concept of a personal capsule wardrobe. A well-curated wardrobe aligns with your personality and, crucially, your individual style, which means that the only person qualified to determine what’s “in” or “out” is you. The same applies to outdated sneaker trends for winter 2025—although sneakers like the Adidas Samba remain a favorite, I'm craving something new amid the plethora of fresh silhouettes emerging this year.
It often seems that popular sneaker styles come in cycles. Not long ago, chunky trainers adorned with logos were all the rage—think the chunky Gucci Ryhton or the widely-loved Balenciaga Triple S. While there’s a timeless appeal to these styles (and I wouldn’t discourage you from wearing them), the sleeker, simplified designs seen at Miu Miu and Dries van Noten are gaining a following among fashion enthusiasts, paving the way for more understated styles that lack logos and feature a slimmer, elongated shape. Recently, after trying on numerous autumn trainers favored by readers and Who What Wear UK editors alike, it’s clear that we share a common vision for the colors, shapes, and brands we're attracted to. However, to further clarify, I consulted with my fellow editors, and despite our usual indecisiveness, we identified five sneaker trends we're collectively putting on hold for now, while embracing others instead. Keep scrolling to uncover them.
**5 Outdated Sneaker Trends and the Alternatives We Love**
1. **Moving Away From:** Chunky Trainers
**Style Notes:** For winter 2025, shopping editor Florrie Alexander is "setting aside my high-top trainers in favor of low-profile styles." Her capsule wardrobe, filled with relaxed and tailored denim, pairs well with the retro vibe and streamlined look of these trainers.
**Shop Retro Trainers:**
- **COS**: Minimal Leather Trainers (These have been selling out quickly!)
- **Dries Van Noten**: Leather-Trimmed Suede Sneakers
- **M&S Collection**: Lace-Up Side Detail Runner Trainers (Unbelievably high street quality!)
- **Hush**: Slimline Retro Trainers (The combination of contrasting colors and gum sole gives them a luxurious appearance.)
- **& Other Stories**: Suede-Detail Trainers (The quilting differentiates them from other trainers.)
2. **Moving Away From:** Neutral Trainers
**Style Notes:** Neutral trainers have always been a classic, but in winter 2025, we're opting for vibrant colors instead of playing it safe. Senior shopping editor Marina Avraam, who usually keeps her trainers minimal, is all about making a statement this year. She shares, "My go-to pair so far has been my yellow Onitsukas" for their versatility, claiming they add "polish and pizzazz to the simplest outfits."
**Shop Brightly Colored Trainers:**
- **Loewe**: Ballet Runner 2.0 Unlined (I would pair these with a leather bomber and jeans for a relaxed weekend look.)
- **Adidas**: SL 72 OG Suede and Leather Sneakers (Love the green and yellow contrast on these!)
- **Adidas**: Handball Spezial Shoes (Navy trainers surprisingly versatile for winter.)
3. **Moving Away From:** Laceless Trainers
**Style Notes:** You might be thinking of those "Dad" trainers, and like many, my mind goes straight to the once-coveted Balenciaga Triple S, which now feels like a distant memory. However, editorial assistant Brittany Davy is looking for "cooler" dad trainers to elevate her staples. Options range from Salomon Gore Tex to Reebok Club-C, offering many chic choices.
**Shop Dad Trainers:**
- **SALOMON**: Xt-6 Rubber-Trimmed Sneakers (A slightly lesser-known silhouette, yet its sporty appeal makes it a top choice this winter.)
- **ASICS x KITH**: Gel-Kayano 12.1 Mesh and Metallic Rubber Sneakers (Kith collaborations are always appealing.)
- **M&S Collection**: Leather Side Detail Trainers (The cushioned sole makes them perfect for long wear.)
- **ZARA**: Colour Block Trainers (The burgundy accents give them a more sophisticated look.)
4. **Moving Away From:** Metallic Trainers
**Style Notes:** Here’s the scoop: animal-print trainers are poised to be the next major footwear trend of 2025. We’ve seen the popularity of tactile cow-print leather bags, not to mention the trending
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Whether You Adore Them or Dislike Them, Here Are 5 "Outdated" Sneaker Trends We're Putting on Hold for the Time Being.
A fresh batch of It sneakers.
