What types of sneakers are there?

Since the first sneakers were made, a huge variety of these comfortable shoes have appeared. Since it was originally intended only for sports, and then “went to the masses,” it is customary to divide it into two large categories - sports and everyday. Each of them has its own gradation according to certain characteristics. In addition to these large categories, such shoes are classified by the type of upper and the method of fixation.

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Sports

Shoes are part of athletes' equipment. Comfort during training and competition results largely depend on how convenient and functional it is. Sneakers are classified according to the following sports:

1. Football. The name of such shoes is boots. The main feature is the presence of spikes on the sole. This design provides excellent grip on the surface while playing. The number of spikes may be different - for playing on grass and in the hall. The upper of such shoes is always leather.
   

   @Shopee

2. Tennis. A special feature is the wide sole, which provides stability during lateral movements. Its pattern is different - it indicates what surfaces the shoes are intended for playing on. Reinforced side panels provide ankle support, impact protection and ease of maneuvering. Material: leather with synthetic inserts for ventilation.
   

   @Wonderopolis

3. Basketball. A special feature is the high top. The shoes provide excellent ankle support and high-quality shock absorption when jumping. The basketball cross platform can be high or low.
   

   @Highsnobiety

4. Volleyball. The characteristics of volleyball shoes are similar to those that tennis sneakers should have - good shock absorption and reliable ankle support. After all, in both games there is a large number of movements and rapid attacks within a small area.
   

   @womensg.com

5. Run. These shoes are the lightest. Features: flexible toe and rigid heel. The first element should follow the shape of the foot when running, and the heel should provide enhanced shock absorption. These sneakers are always low.
   

   @nike.com

6. Fitness. Features: thin and flexible sole. Such shoes are usually low, with a herringbone sole pattern.
   

   @SportBittl

Reference. For skateboarding, special sneakers are enough. They differ from sneakers in having a flat rubber sole, an all-rubber toe, and a completely fabric upper.

Top height

The height classification was first proposed by the designer of the well-known “sports giant” Nike. Taking the model of trekking boots as a basis, he created basketball sneakers with three variations of the shaft:

• low (low) - the height does not reach the ankle;
• middle (middle) - the edge of the shoe runs exactly along the ankle;
• high (high) - shoes completely cover the ankle and securely fix the ankle.
  

  @shape.com

Household

These are all those sneakers that are not intended for training and competition. If when choosing sports shoes, their functionality is important, then when purchasing sneakers for the household category, they usually focus on their appearance. The latter are:

• tourist or for active recreation (when choosing them, practicality and functionality are still important);
• everyday;
• designer.
  

  @harpersbazaar.com

Shoes of the first category must be durable and wear-resistant, securely fix the ankle, and accurately follow the shape of the foot. Casual models are selected in accordance with individual preferences and fashion trends. Today there are many variations of such shoes. Designer ones are the result of the flight of creative thought of famous couturiers. These models are valued not for functionality or practicality, but for their original and stylish appearance. As a rule, they are produced in limited editions and are very expensive.

Types of fixation of sneakers

The type of fastener is another sign of the classification of sneakers. Not only the comfort of wearing, but also the durability of the shoe depends on how they are fixed on the foot. Options:

1. Lacing. What is called a classic of the genre. Laces are made from natural materials (cotton, leather) and synthetics, and come in round and flat sections. The most reliable are those with metal tips. There are many lacing options - classic zigzag, lattice, spider web, zipper, etc. Some provide quick shoeing, others ensure secure fixation, and others act as one of the decorative elements.
   

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2. Clips and carabiners. Act as an auxiliary element for lacing. Made from plastic or metal.
3. Textile clasp. Better known as Velcro.One side of it consists of microhooks, the other - microloops. The advantage is quick fixation. Disadvantage: fragility. The fastener quickly wears out and begins to perform its functions poorly.
4. Elastic band with lock. A modern option is to secure the elastic band with clips and carabiners, which is, of course, very convenient. The downside is that the elastic band stretches and even breaks over time. So far, this method of fixation is used on everyday models.

Reference. Today, the trend is sneakers without any fastening at all. These are sock models.

For now, synthetic lacing is considered the most reliable option. It is stronger, more durable, non-slip and quickly unties. Therefore, only this kind of fixation is used on sports shoes.