The best men's sneakers and the secrets of their choice

Men's sneakers have long ceased to be considered an element of exclusively sports equipment. They are able to organically complement almost any informal image of both a young boy and a representative of mature age. What types of sneakers do modern manufacturers offer men? What models and brands are popular among the stronger sex?

Modern men's sneakers are comfortable, ergonomic and beautiful shoes that can be combined with many wardrobe items. From female models, men's sneakers usually differ in such features as:

• size - the size of men's sneakers is always greater than the size of women's models (the size range of men's shoes on average varies from 38 to 50 sizes);
• design;
• color spectrum.

The design of men's sneakers is characterized by restrained simplicity or deliberate aggressiveness. Often, geometric or futuristic ornaments are used in the design of male models. Visually, men's sneakers look more massive and rough in contrast to women's models.

Modern manufacturers offer men a variety of sneakers that differ in both appearance and performance. Depending on the length of the upper, there are three types of men's sneakers:

• low, in which the upper part is located below the level of the ankle;
• medium, in which the upper part fits the ankle;
• high, in which the upper part fits the ankle.

In the manufacture of men's sneakers, manufacturers use both natural and artificial materials. Below is a list of the materials most commonly used to make the best running shoes for men.

• Genuine leather, suede and nubuck - expensive materials used to make the upper part of the sneaker. Strength, vapor permeability, and attractive appearance are considered to be the advantages of these materials. These shoes provide the most comfortable wearing experience.

• Artificial leather (eco leather) - a practical and relatively durable material used to make the upper of sneakers. Modern types of artificial leather are characterized not only by an attractive appearance, but also by high strength, wear resistance, and moisture resistance.

• Cordura - very dense nylon material with a high degree of moisture protection. Sneakers, the upper part of which is made of Cordura, reliably protect your feet not only from dampness, but also from accidental injuries (for example, when hitting stones).

• Textile materials, also used for the upper, provide a comfortable wearing experience. These sneakers maintain optimal air exchange and temperature.

• Grids - lightweight synthetic materials consisting of interwoven polyester or nylon fibers. The sneaker is lightweight and breathable with a mesh upper.

For the manufacture of midsole, manufacturers use materials such as:

• phylon - light elastic material made of pressed EVA granules;
• polyurethane - a durable polymer material with good shock-absorbing properties;
• filayt - an elastic polymer material that gives flexibility to the bottom of the shoe;
• EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) is a lightweight synthetic material that does not allow moisture to pass through and maintains a comfortable temperature inside the shoe.

In the manufacture of the soles of men's sneakers, manufacturers use both pure rubber (rubber) and materials based on it - carbon rubber and DRC. The advantages of pure rubber soles include good grip on any surfaces, excellent shock absorption properties, and resistance to low temperatures. Rubber soles are lighter and more durable.

Depending on the design features, modern models of men's sneakers can be divided into several categories. Below is a list of the most popular options.

• Classic... The simplest and most uncomplicated design is possessed by men's sneakers in a classic style. Their design is dominated by neutral colors, simple clean lines, discreet logos. A characteristic detail of models with a classic design is the absence of decor and unnecessary elements.

• Sports... The design of sports models is characterized by the most ergonomic shape, bright colors, original prints, as well as special inserts. Models of many popular brands are often adorned with luminous details or reflective elements.

• Casual... The design of casual sneakers is relatively discreet, discreet, allowing you to combine them with many wardrobe items. In the design of such models, designers usually use both neutral and calm tones and bright saturated (mostly dark) shades - emerald green, ultramarine blue, maroon.

• Military... Charismatic models of sneakers made in military style are popular among modern men of young and mature age. The design of such models is characterized by variegated camouflage or monochromatic (olive, khaki) colors, a high upper part that fits the ankle, a powerful relief sole or a platform with a protector. Despite the visual massiveness, the military-style sneakers are quite lightweight and comfortable to wear.

The modern range of men's sneakers from the best manufacturers includes both lightweight summer and warmed demi-season models. Some models, according to the manufacturers, are allowed to be worn even in snowless or little snowy winters at temperatures not lower than -15 ° C. These sneakers are equipped with an anti-slip sole, membrane liners that keep the inside of the shoe dry and wick moisture out.

Conventionally, the whole variety of models of men's sneakers can be divided into sports (for training) and household (for everyday wear). Sports sneakers designed for training differ from everyday models and from each other not only in appearance, but also in design features.

Walking models are equipped with a 3-layer rubber sole... In the front part of the tread of such models, there are spikes that enhance the grip of the soles with the road surface.

The men's gym and fitness shoe features a lightweight, flexible sole, cushioning and a breathable upper. The ergonomic shape of these sneakers and dense lacing provide a secure fit of the feet and protect them from injury.

Football Sneakers (Boots) - very lightweight sports shoes, a characteristic feature of which is the presence of spikes on the sole. The number of thorns and their location depend on the characteristics of the playing area covering (natural or artificial turf, cinder grounds).

Orthopedic sneakers - shoes equipped with special insoles and shock-absorbing elements that neutralize the negative impact of shock loads that occur during walking, running, and active physical exercise.

Trekking sneakers - an item of equipment for fans of tourism and outdoor activities. Distinctive features of such shoes are:

• anatomical shape that follows the curves of the foot;
• upper made of membrane ("breathing") materials;
• lightweight and durable non-slip outsole.

In trekking shoes, legs get tired much less than in regular shoes.

Crossfit sneaker with wide elastic sole and raised heel... These design features of this shoe provide maximum stability to the athlete during training with heavy weights.

In the manufacture of most models of men's sneakers for everyday wear (household), manufacturers usually focus not on functional and design features, but on the original design, catchy decorative elements. Such sneakers can have a non-standard high top, a massive platform with a protector, decor in the form of metal rivets, chains or other accessories. An example of this is the original men's sock sneakers popular with young men. These models have a rather high elastic upper, tight-fitting ankle, and a thick (often raised) sole.

The colors used by designers in the design of men's sneakers are usually dominated by calm, cold tones. - dark blue, inky purple, emerald green. Models of sneakers for men of mature age usually performed in neutral and calm pastel colors - white, black, smoky gray, beige. Colored youth models men's sneakers are often made in rich, almost "acidic" shades - orange-orange, lemon, lime, salad.

Sneakers designed for walking, hiking, or outdoor workouts tend to use non-staining dark colors. - grassy green, dark brown. In contrast, models for training in the gym are often made in very light shades.

Companies specializing in sports shoes and apparel offer a wide variety of models.

• Timberland - the legendary American brand, under which fashionable clothes and high-quality footwear are produced. Fans of tourism and outdoor activities are popular with sneakers from the Concrete Trail Oxford line, presented in various color variations. The models are equipped with an elastic spring sole made with SensorFlex technology and an ergonomic OrthoLite insole.

• Adidas Is one of the largest international brands producing high quality sportswear, footwear and accessories. One of the brand's iconic models is the Adidas Gazelle sneakers, first released in the second half of the 60s of the last century. These inexpensive and very comfortable sneakers are available in a wide variety of colors. Their characteristic features are a simple and discreet design, as well as the presence of three branded sloping stripes on the sides.

• Vans Is a well-known American manufacturer of sports shoes, apparel and accessories. Light canvas sneakers from the Old School series are very popular among fans of the street style trend. New items that have recently added to this series are made of genuine leather and suede.

• Converse Is a popular American brand of high-end sports shoes. In collaboration with renowned musician Gregory Tyler, Converse has released the cool Converse X Golf Le Fleur Gianno men's sneaker with an ultra-trendy design and unsurpassed ergonomics.

• Champion Is an American manufacturer of clothing, footwear, underwear and accessories for outdoor activities and sports. Among men of young and mature age, Champion sneakers from the Legacy Plus series are popular. The upper of the models is made of a combination of textiles, artificial and natural leather, the sole is made of wear-resistant rubber.

• Anta Is one of the largest Chinese manufacturers of sportswear, footwear and equipment. The extensive range of the company's products includes stylish men's sneakers for everyday wear, basketball, jogging. The Lifestyle line of models deserves special attention, meeting all the requirements of street style fans.

• Rieker Is an old German brand that produces practical and stylish footwear for men and women. Among the extensive range of men's sneakers produced under this brand, it should be noted the catchy youth model B8820-01 with a breathable textile upper and a massive but lightweight sole made of durable rubber.

• Zara - a popular youth brand under which inexpensive and stylish clothes, shoes and accessories are produced. Among the most original Zara men's sneakers of 2020, we should mention the models made in retro style.

• Polo (U. S. Polo Assn.) Is a well-known American brand under which premium-class clothing, footwear and accessories are produced. The extensive product range includes high quality men's running shoes for both sports and casual wear (eg S081SZ0330Y20 Albertina and S081SZ0330Y20 Bayard).

• Diesel Is one of the largest Italian companies producing high quality clothing and footwear for men and women. Among the brand's new products, it is worth noting the model of the original S-Serendipity LC men's sneakers in green color, equipped with a springy rubber sole.

• Strobbs Is one of the trendy brands owned by the already mentioned Chinese manufacturer Anta Sport. In the manufacture of stylish sports shoes produced under this brand, natural and artificial leather, high-strength textiles, and natural suede are used.

• Umbro Is a British manufacturer of sports equipment and footwear. Among young men, ergonomic and elegant models in the spirit of street style are popular - Saorsa, Convy MID, Trendy.

• Nike Is one of the most famous American manufacturers of clothing and footwear for a wide variety of sports. The Air Monarch is considered the cult model of men's sneakers of this brand, which is available in several variations. The advantages of this model include low cost, modern design and ergonomic cut.

When choosing men's sneakers, you should focus, first of all, on the conditions for their further use. So, for everyday wear, it is better to purchase comfortable and practical inexpensive models of non-marking colors, made of eco-leather and equipped with a light springy sole. For sports, it is better to give preference to sneakers with a rubber sole and an upper made of "breathable" membrane or mesh materials.

Models with a rag (textile) top Ideal for exercising in the gym or walking in dry weather. Sneakers with leather or faux leather upper perfectly complement sports equipment for training outdoors in rainy weather.

The latest trends in modern fashion prescribe to wear sneakers not only with sportswear, but also with jeans, shorts, breeches, chinos and cargo pants. Such shoes look organic in combination with military-style clothing.

The hit youth trend of recent years is wearing sneakers with cropped or rolled up jeans.... At the same time, it is planned to put shoes on very short socks (footsteps), exposing the ankle.

Skinny Jeans, Elegant Light Yarn Pullover and White Sock Trainers - a versatile youth ensemble, suitable for evening walks and friendly parties. A curious detail of the sneakers used in this look are the special loops on the backs that make it easier to remove the shoes.

Lightweight denim jacket, skinny dark jeans and white classic sneakers able to create a democratic everyday ensemble. Stylish accessories allow you to make this look harmonious and complete.