Amid the hype over hundred-thousand peso sneakers dropping here and there, there’s that unheralded but special relationship with shoes that last such a long time but remain a classic for a reason. Dirty beaters? Off-duty Shia Labeouf could never be prouder.
Sparing as sparing can get, nothing compels me to buy shoes that cost more than my budget. I make sure I deserve a good pair that’ll definitely last me in the long run (literally). That’s basically the goal of this list (besides exposing my taste). Here are the six footwear that should never be missing from your shoe rack, if you’re thinking long term. *wink*
Adidas Stan Smiths
Admit it, Phoebe Philo, former creative director of Chloé and Céline, made Stan Smiths cool again. And then came the rest of the monochromatic ’fits flooding instagram in 2015. Named after a famous tennis player, the shoe was originally released in the ’60 and still boasts big athleisure energy. Philo’s impact? Seen and felt.
Dr. Martens 1461
Casual but formal but casual is prolly its best description. Officewear? Yes please. Leisure? Totally. Tick them all because you don’t even need two shoes for going out and walking in. Sturdy enough to brave the roughest strides yet won’t let you down on slippery surfaces, DM’s are definitely a good, all-weather pair.
Converse ’70s
The ’70s is Converse’s more premium line. Built with a more solid exterior and upgraded soles, it really is synonymous with comfort and play. Now that many brands are eyeing collabs with it (see the recent Feng Chen Wang x Converse), the classic low remains a trusty go-to.
Teva or Suicoke (if you’re feeling bougie)
Technically, not a shoe. But if you’re feeling too lazy to dress up, you need good sandals for casual walking. Just a plain old Teva or Suicoke as a comfortable pick-me-up and you’re good to go. Although more expensive than Tevas (and the latter the most suitable alternative), Suicoke proved to be a style staple in cult Japanese streetwear, now embraced worldwide.
New Balance 990v5
“Worn by models in London and Dads in Ohio,” as the shoe’s tagline goes, this shoe is probably one of the most versatile reissue from New Balance’s long history. Sported by the likes of Kaia Gerber, Timothee Chalamet and Zoë Kravitz, the shoe will probably last longer than its current hype with its clean and minimalist vibe.
Vault by Vans Authentic
More than just a surf and skate staple, Vault by Vans is also the brand’s premium label, with its different foxing, rubberside walls and noticeably higher soles than the regulars. And while there are certainly lots of up-and-coming styles, authentic is probably my best bet in low-key dressing. Normcore with a street cred? Sign me the fuck up.
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Still from ‘The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou’