The Hottest Sneaker Trends of the Season: From Retro Classics to Modern Hybrids

Sneakers are taking a new direction this season, with earthy brown kicks pushing out the white sneakers that were everywhere as the color to wear in 2025.
I’ve seen fashion lovers all over swapping their bright white shoes for these warmer more flexible options.
The sneaker scene is full of variety right now, from super-slim styles to chunky platforms making waves.
Small brands like HOKA are doing well, while big names like Nike, Adidas, and New Balance are giving their classic designs fresh updates. Also, ’70s-style track shoes have become one of fall’s most popular looks offering both comfort and a touch of old-school cool.
What’s also taking over the sneaker scene? Red sneakers have become a street style must-have often seen on celebs.
Animal prints are making a splash, and plimsolls—maybe the most basic kicks you can buy—have won over the fashion crowd as the weather gets cooler.
Let’s take a closer look at the hottest sneaker trends shaping this season and how you can add them to your closet.
The Hottest Sneaker Trends of 2025 Revealed.
Table of Contents
Sneakerinas (Ballet Sneaker Hybrids)

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Say hello to the “sneakerina” – a surprising blend of footwear styles that has made its way up the popular sneakers list.
These unique shoes mix the ease of sporty sneakers with the graceful look of ballet flats.
Key features of sneakerinas
Sneakerinas have a cushioned rubber outsole like a sneaker and a smooth rounded satin front like a ballet flat.
Some styles come with ribbon ties, Mary Jane-style straps, or stretchy crisscross bands.
Their slim and lightweight design offers a more delicate option than bulky sneakers while still keeping them comfy to wear.
Why sneakerinas are trending
Searches worldwide for ballet sneakers jumped by a whopping 1,300% in the beginning of 2025.
This boom comes after famous faces like Bella Hadid, Dua Lipa, and Chloë Sevigny took to the style.
Fashion Month runways further sealed their popularity, with Simone Rocha’s satin low-tops leading the pack. Also, the trend fits with both balletcore looks and the current fashion craze for mixed “Frankenshoes.”
Best ways to wear sneakerinas
Sneakerinas have a lot of uses.
They make casual jeans-and-tee outfits look better and soften formal office clothes.
To go for a sporty look, you can wear them with leggings or track shorts. Or, you can put them on with summer midi dresses and still feel comfy.
Popular sneakerina sneaker brands
Top contenders include:
- Simone Rocha (the OG ballet sneakers, first introduced in SS’21)
- Vivaia (Bella Hadid’s preferred brand, selling over 10,000 pairs since February 2025)
- Louis Vuitton (featuring their signature monogram pattern)
- Puma (Speedcat Ballet, a favorite of Dua Lipa and Rihanna)
- Adidas (offering the Taekwondo Mei and Bad Bunny collaborations)
Gorpcore and Techy Runners

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Gorpcore sneakers have stormed the fashion scene, blending high-performance trail technology with urban style sensibilities.
These technical runners are no longer confined to hiking trails—they’ve become street style staples that balance form and function.
Key features of gorpcore sneakers
Technical gorpcore sneakers have uppers that are light and let air through, along with tough grippy soles made to handle rough ground.
Most styles show off bold color mixes big logos, and thick cushy midsoles.
The key features include Vibram outsoles materials that keep water out, and cutting-edge cushioning tech that makes them super comfy to wear all day long.
Why gorpcore sneakers are trending
The term “gorpcore” (from “Good Ol’ Raisins and Peanuts”) was officially coined by Jason Chen for The Cut in 2017, although the esthetic had already gained mainstream appeal by then.
Scandinavian influencers helped popularize these technical styles, especially after the pandemic shifted priorities toward comfort without sacrificing style.
Consequently, celebrities like Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, and Rihanna have embraced the look, with Rihanna’s 2023 appearance in Salomon Cross Low sneakers at an event with 21 million viewers cementing the trend’s status.
Best ways to wear gorpcore sneakers
Layering is essential to the gorpcore esthetic.
Pair your technical sneakers with baggy pants featuring hardware like zippers or adjustable drawstrings.
For contrast, try styling them with girlish skirts, playful socks, or crop tops.
Bright colors work especially well—consider an orange sweater with yellow shorts and purple socks to create vibrant combinations with your technical footwear.
Popular gorpcore sneaker brands
The most coveted brands dominating this trend include:
- Salomon – Their XT-6 model sells out at “hypebeast-like speeds”
- HOKA – Known for cloud-like cushioning and sculptural shapes
- ASICS – Their GEL-Kayano and GEL-Nimbus lines blend retro appeal with advanced technology
- New Balance – The 990 series and 2002R line continue to attract fashion-forward consumers
- On Running – Particularly their collaborations with luxury brands
Suede Sneakers

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Suede sneakers have emerged as the luxurious staple in this season’s footwear lineup, offering a tactile richness that elevates even the simplest outfits.
These velvety kicks have become the ultimate style upgrade for fashion enthusiasts seeking both comfort and sophistication.
Key features of suede sneakers
The most striking aspect of suede sneakers is their soft, tactile texture that instantly adds warmth to any look.
Available in a spectrum of colors from rich cocoa to vibrant magenta, these shoes often incorporate contrast elements like white accents or gum soles.
Many feature retro-inspired silhouettes, harkening back to vintage athletic designs but with modern updates.
Why suede sneakers are trending
Suede sneakers have become popular as part of the bigger trend towards suede in fashion, from jackets to bags.
We’re now seeing the age of “post-sneakers” – mixed models that combine running shoes, classics, and retro-futuristic shapes.
Famous people have driven this trend, with stars like Emily Ratajkowski and Gigi Hadid often seen wearing suede shoes.
Also, their soft texture fits with fall fashion when the weather gets cooler.
Best ways to wear suede sneakers
These versatile shoes work exceptionally well with jeans and classic t-shirts for everyday wear.
Alternatively, pair them with wide-leg trousers or oversized knit dresses for a more sophisticated approach.
For a stylish contrast, try teaming your suede sneakers with leather pants.
Just remember – avoid wearing them in rainy conditions without waterproofing spray.
Skater-Inspired Sneakers

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Skater culture has infiltrated mainstream fashion, bringing authentic skate shoes to the forefront of this season’s trending sneakers.
These functional designs now appeal to both skaters and style enthusiasts alike.
Key features of skater sneakers
Skater sneakers prioritize performance with reinforced flick points and triple-stitched uppers for durability.
Most feature sticky grip outsoles with herringbone patterns that provide excellent board feel and traction.
Notably, the side foxing often includes thicker diagonal stripes carved into the outsole to improve flick ability.
Memory foam insoles offer arch support and cushioning against impacts when landing tricks.
Why skater sneakers are trending
The affordability of skate shoes has boosted their popularity—most retail between $75-$130, offering excellent value compared to other trending sneakers.
In fact, emerging indie labels like Last Resort AB have expanded from 250 retailers to 700 across 40 countries within five years by maintaining this accessible price point.
However, the real driver is skateboarding’s broader cultural influence, with fashion-forward retailers like Dover Street Market now stocking skate brands alongside luxury labels.
Best ways to wear skater sneakers
For an authentic look, pair skate shoes with baggy jeans or wide-leg trousers. Essentially, these versatile kicks work with everything from graphic tees to oversized hoodies.
The understated silhouettes also complement more tailored pieces for a high-low style contrast.
Popular skater sneaker brands
The most influential brands include Nike SB (particularly their Dunk and Blazer models), Vans (with classics like the Half Cab and Skate Old Skool), and New Balance Numeric (known for innovative signature shoes).
Other notable contenders are Adidas Skateboarding, DC Shoes, Last Resort AB, and Converse’s skate-specific Chuck Taylor Pro lines.
Bright Red Sneakers

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The boldest statement in footwear this season comes in the form of vibrant red sneakers, stealing attention on streets and runways alike.
This fiery footwear choice has rapidly become a must-have for fashion enthusiasts seeking to add character to their ensembles.
Key features of red sneakers
Red sneakers come in shades from bright cherry to deep wine giving you choices for every style you like. To start with many popular models have low-profile shapes moving away from the bulky designs that were all the rage before. Brands like Adidas mix different reds (bright red pinkish-red, and dark red) in one shoe with their SL72, while Nike and New Balance often use red as eye-catching details on white backgrounds.
Why red sneakers are trending
The trend traces back to basketball culture – specifically the Air Jordan 1 “Bred” from 1985, which became a symbol of rebellion after being banned by the NBA.
Yet beyond historical significance, red has become what stylist Renée Lara calls “the new neutral”.
Alongside celebrities like Emily Ratajkowski and Iris Law sporting red kicks, the color offers remarkable versatility, transitioning seamlessly from summer into fall fashion cycles.
Best ways to wear red sneakers
For styling these statement shoes, I’ve found these combinations work best:
- Pair with cuffed jeans, white t-shirt and gold accessories for casual outings
- Style with a shift dress and blazer for dressier occasions
- Try with neutrals like beige, tan, and deep brown for a sophisticated look
The secret to pulling off red sneakers? Confidence. This vibrant footwear choice instantly transforms basic outfits into something extraordinary.
Comparison Table
Sneaker Type | Key Features | Notable Brands | Styling Recommendations | Why It’s Trending | Price Range |
Sneakerinas | Padded rubber outsole, rounded satin vamp, ribbon lacing, Mary Jane straps, slim profile | Simone Rocha, Vivaia, Louis Vuitton, Puma, Adidas | Pair with jeans, leggings, track shorts, midi dresses, tailored office wear | Global searches rose 1,300% in 2025; Celebrity endorsements from Bella Hadid, Dua Lipa | Not mentioned |
Gorpcore & Techy Runners | Lightweight breathable uppers, Vibram outsoles, waterproof materials, thick cushioned midsoles | Salomon, HOKA, ASICS, New Balance, On Running | Layer with baggy pants, girlish skirts, playful socks, crop tops | Celebrity adoption (Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, Rihanna), post-pandemic comfort focus | Not mentioned |
Suede Sneakers | Soft tactile texture, contrast elements, retro-inspired silhouettes, gum soles | Not specifically mentioned | Pair with jeans, t-shirts, wide-leg trousers, oversized knit dresses, leather pants | Part of larger suede fashion trend; Celebrity adoption (Emily Ratajkowski, Gigi Hadid) | Not mentioned |
Skater-Inspired Sneakers | Reinforced flick points, triple-stitched uppers, sticky grip outsoles, memory foam insoles | Nike SB, Vans, New Balance Numeric, Adidas Skateboarding, DC Shoes | Pair with baggy jeans, wide-leg trousers, graphic tees, oversized hoodies | Affordable price point, skateboarding’s cultural influence | $75-$130 |
Bright Red Sneakers | Low-profile silhouettes, multiple red tones (scarlet to merlot), white bases with red accents | Adidas (SL72), Nike, New Balance | Pair with cuffed jeans & white t-shirt, shift dress & blazer, neutral colors | Celebrity adoption (Emily Ratajkowski, Iris Law), versatility across seasons | Not mentioned |
Conclusion
This season marks an exciting change in sneaker fashion. Sneakerinas, which combine athletic comfort with ballet grace, and sturdy gorpcore styles made for both trails and city streets, give plenty of choices for every preference and event. Suede sneakers provide that perfect touch of luxury while skater-inspired shoes bring real street cred to any outfit. Also bright red sneakers have become the ultimate standout piece turning even simple outfits into trendy looks.
The sneaker scene in 2025 shows a big change from just being useful to showing off creativity. White sneakers used to fill our closets, but now earthy browns and bright reds take center stage. Prices for these trends vary a lot, with skater styles being pretty cheap at $75-$130.
How you style these trendy shoes depends on what you like. Sneakerinas can dress up casual and fancy outfits, while gorpcore looks best with layers of technical clothes. Suede shoes go great with jeans or dresses just don’t wear them when it rains. Skater shoes match well with loose-fitting clothes, and those eye-catching red sneakers add some flair to plain-colored outfits.
In the end, picking the right sneakers depends on your daily life and what you need in your closet. You might care most about comfort how long they last how well they go with different outfits, or just wanting to stand out. This season’s wide range of sneaker trends has something for everyone. The lines between sports shoes and fashion pieces have blurred giving us new ways to show who we are through our shoe choices.
FAQs
Q1. What are the hottest sneaker trends for the current season? The hottest sneaker trends include sneakerinas (ballet sneaker hybrids), gorpcore and techy runners, suede sneakers, skater-inspired styles, and bright red sneakers, Each trend offers unique features and styling options to suit different preferences and occasions.
Q2. How can I style bright red sneakers? Bright red sneakers can be styled in various ways, Try pairing them with cuffed jeans and a white t-shirt for a casual look, or with a shift dress and blazer for dressier occasions, They also work well with neutral colors like beige, tan, and deep brown for a sophisticated ensemble.
Q3. What are sneakerinas and why are they popular? Sneakerinas are a hybrid between athletic footwear and ballet flats, combining comfort with elegance, They feature padded rubber outsoles and rounded satin vamps, Their popularity has soared due to celebrity endorsements and their versatility in complementing various outfits, from casual to office wear.
Q4. Are skater-inspired sneakers suitable for non-skaters? Absolutely. Skater-inspired sneakers have gained popularity beyond skateboarding culture due to their durability, comfort, and stylish designs, They pair well with various outfits, from baggy jeans to graphic tees, making them versatile for everyday wear regardless of skateboarding involvement.
Q5. What makes gorpcore sneakers stand out from other trends? Gorpcore sneakers blend high-performance trail technology with urban style, They feature lightweight, breathable uppers, sturdy soles, and advanced cushioning technologies, Their popularity stems from the increasing focus on comfort without sacrificing style, and they’re often seen in bold color combinations with prominent logos.