Advocates argue that the sneakerina is the ultimate flat. Their totally unexpected hybrid combines the comfort of a cushioned rubber sole trainer with the delicate, rounded toe of a classic ballet pump. Some go further still, adding ribbon ankle ties and dainty bows. Louis Vuitton just launched its own ballet trainer, the LV Sneakerina, while Bella Hadid wears the Cristina style by Vivaia. Meanwhile it is Puma’s Speedcats, complete with elasticated cross-over straps, that have won over style icons Rihanna and Dua Lipa.
Still, not everyone is convinced. To many, sneakerinas look confused, like a fashion experiment caught up in a full-blown identity crisis. These summery pumps may be adored by fashion darlings including Chloë Sevigny – spotted in Ecco Biom C-Trails – but to their critics, they scream try-hard and overdesigned.
So, are sneakerinas fashion forward, or just a fashion faux pas? Shop them now – if you dare.
