Sneakers have come quite a long way since they first debuted in 1876, and since then they have evolved into something much more than just footwear. The evolution of sneakers revolves around a deep-rooted history, which we are going to delve deep into today.
Sneakers have become an essential part of our everyday wardrobes, but have you ever wondered how they evolved over time? It all began in the 1800s in England, the first ever model was invented for upper-class members playing croquet and tennis. Little did they know at the time the impact this would have on society today. Back in the early days of sneakers, they were called ‘plimsolls.’ They were extremely basic, with simple rubber soles and canvas uppers. This combination of materials provided comfort and flexibility, which is why it became such a popular choice for athletes.
The rise of athletic sneakers began in the early 2000s as sports gained popularity. The demand for sneakers increased to new heights and with this, brands like Converse and Keds emerged, introducing rubber–soled sneakers designed for specific sports like basketball and tennis.
As athletic sneakers began to rise, they started to become more of a fashion statement. Brands like Nike and Adidas began to collaborate with celebrities and athletes, which just increased their popularity of them! This is also when the Air Jordan sneaker was born. Michael Jordan was known for wearing Jordan’s on the court, which is the reason why they are so popular now.
The success of sneakers continued to grow and grow. They made their impact on wider society from film and music video appearances to rap lyrics, everybody knew about sneakers. Technology advancements made an appearance. From exclusive technologies like ‘Air Cushioning’ to responsive foam midsoles, brands began incorporating innovative features to enhance comfort, support, and performance.
Present day, sneaker culture and collecting are at an all-time high. There is now a whole community of sneaker enthusiasts who eagerly wait for the latest limited-edition releases, collaborations, and exclusive colourways to drop.
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