Although it may sound unsettling, if you're a fashion follower, you'll be familiar with this peculiar term. Ugly sneakers (also known as chunky sneakers) are a type of footwear that reached its peak popularity in the first decade of this century.
Known for their unconventional and eye-catching appearance , these sneakers challenged traditional standards of beauty and became a symbol of originality on a global scale.
But what has become of them? Are they still among the elite or a thing of the past?
In this new Newcop article , we'll not only discuss this issue, but also delve into the most striking models and the direction in which this unique approach to sneakers is headed.
What are ugly sneakers exactly?
The literal translation from English is "ugly sneakers ," a term that will put off more than a few due to its discouraging description. But nothing could be further from the truth, as around 2010, these types of designs were adopted by some of the biggest fashion brands, appearing on the world's most prestigious runways.
Many celebrities have even flaunted them, turning them into a symbol of their messages or way of life, such as models Emily Ratajkowski and Bella Hadid. Or athletes Lewis Hamilton and Héctor Bellerín.
Ugly sneakers are characterized by their bulky appearance , thick soles, and exaggerated details. Many people consider them extravagant or visually unappealing, hence their nickname.
However, the reality is that they challenge traditional aesthetic standards, and it is precisely this aspect that gives them value.
Best ugly sneakers of the moment
If you've come to this article to find out if ugly sneakers are still in style , the answer is a resounding yes. At Newcop , we know this well, as you can find some of these designs on our website, and we have to confess that they are highly sought after by customers.
While it is true that fashions change, the reality is that there are some of these sneakers that are already iconic . This is the case of the Nike Vaporwaffle Sacai Sail Gum , which have a rugged look with their striking, raised sole and several inches of height.
Looking for the counterpart to those chunky white sneakers, the ones that draw attention are New Balance 9060 Black Castlerock with an elegant black color that is characterized by a modular design that makes a difference at first glance.
These models are a clear example of the current evolution of this footwear concept, making it wearable for any type of person, without attracting too much attention.
But if you're looking for precisely that, the queens of ugly sneakers deserve special mention , found in Nike's NOCTA series . This is an innovative approach to sneaker design that turns traditional concepts on their head. And while we don't see silhouettes that enlarge the foot like other models, we can see those curved lines that create volume and dynamism.
Without a doubt, we highlight the Nike Hot Step 2 Drake NOCTA Opti Yellow. This Nike collaboration with Drake is a pure statement of intent: a vibrant yellow upper with sculpted lines that look like they're straight out of a concept car, a chrome mini Swoosh that adds a premium touch, and a G-Tek traction sole that ensures firmness with every step. Under that futuristic look, they hide the classic visible Air cushioning , guaranteeing everyday comfort without losing the hype.
Future of this type of sneakers
As we move into a new era in fashion, the ugly sneaker trend has undergone some transformations. While classic models can still be found on the market, there 's been an evolution toward more sophisticated and subtle designs like the aforementioned Nike ones.
Brands and designers have been exploring ways to maintain the original essence , while adapting to changing consumer tastes and, above all, opening them up to a more sober audience.
One of the reasons ugly sneakers have endured in the fashion industry is their ability to generate controversy . Their bold design and disruptive appearance have sparked interest among those looking for a striking outfit at all times.
It is important to note that Ugly sneakers aren't a passing phenomenon. They've proven to be more than just a trend, finding their place among the public and establishing themselves as a very personal style option for those looking for something different.
For this reason, at Newcop we're strongly committed to them and are convinced that many of the models you find on our website will soon become true collector's items.
So now you know, if you don't have ugly sneakers in your closet yet, it's the perfect time to give them a try. You can visit our physical stores in Madrid, Barcelona, Paris, and Dubai, or visit our website.
