Last fall, there were whisperings in the fashion world that sneakers might be over. As trend cycles go, it made sense: We've witnessed so many new It sneakers over the past few years that surely the whole concept would eventually run out of steam. But sneakers, like denim, are more than just a trend—for most people, they're an essential. They're comfortable, usually affordable, and speak to a certain American practicality that's never truly going to go out of style. Our roundup of the year's best sneakers makes it clear that the concept of an athletic shoe with a fashion edge isn't going anywhere—it's just morphing in fun, unexpected ways. —Izzy Grinspan, digital director |
