Warm
Stylist and image maker Anna Kustova believes that when choosing winter sneakers, first of all, attention should be paid to the material of the upper. According to him, the two favorites here are genuine leather and membrane.
“There are woolen or gasketed options, which are nice and expensive but not as functional as synthetic membrane materials. However, when choosing a membrane, it is better to immediately purchase special thermal socks for your sneakers, which will retain heat better and prevent your feet from sweating,” he advises.
Stylist and fashion historian Yana Demchenko emphasizes that the most important criterion when choosing truly warm shoes for the winter is the thickness of the sole: “No material can insulate the foot better against the cold than a really thick sole.”
The sole needs to be not only thick, but also reliable so that it does not slip and has a good grip on ice.
“It is important to have a distinct tread pattern that will “stick” to the ice and prevent you from slipping,” explains Rendez-Vous public relations manager Marina Bitsadze.
The removable insole will provide additional warmth: if your feet get wet, you can take them off and dry them. Another insulation option is to replace the standard insole with wool or even fur.
“And be sure to look at the tongue of the sneaker: if it is not tightly adjacent to the sneaker itself, your feet will be cold,” Kustova warns.
Fashion
When choosing the color and model of sneakers, focus on what and where you will wear them. For example, if you plan to wear your sneakers with ski suits or overalls, you should take a closer look at thick models.
“When looking for sneakers for urban winter, look for models that can be combined with classic clothes. We have been wearing sneakers along with the classics for a long time, and winter is no exception,” says Kustova.
According to Bitsadze, this season global fashion houses and mass-market brands are moving away from sensationally ugly shoes with ultra-massive soles and turning to calmer, natural colors and “classic”, non-provocative styles.
The fashion for “vintage” sneakers and sneakers with “transparent” elements is returning. It is also worth taking a closer look at animal patterned models, the most popular this winter will be “leopard” and “zebra”.
Stylist and fashion editor Yana Polyaninova also recommends paying attention to vintage-style models: especially the already classic Adidas Samba and New Balance.
“But these are, of course, options for the European winter and for those traveling by car,” he warns.
But there are brands that have thought about this point: today in the assortment of many brands you can find classic, recognizable models, complemented by fur or synthetic insulation.
Another trend of the coming winter is sneakers with a metallic effect, which will be an excellent alternative to the usual white ones.
“Such sneakers will attract attention, but they need to be supported by other details of the image: similar details on a hood, bag, backpack or down jacket,” says Kustova.
Bright sneakers are not only the easiest way to add color to boring winter looks, but also an opportunity to fall in love again with the down jacket that has been boring since previous seasons.
“If you want to add some color to a monochromatic outfit, you should take a closer look at sneakers in rich orange tones. These can be combined with an all-black look, with existing khaki and with the usual denim,” suggests Polyaninova.
Yana Demchenko also votes for color: the more shades, the better, according to the stylist. “Intricate compositions with patterns on multicolored uppers, inserts and soles, such as those from Loewe and Prada, look most current. “Such models will give you ample room to put together sets, since the rest of the elements in the image can match any of the many shades of the chosen model,” he explains.
What to wear with
Over the past few years, sneakers have not only conquered catwalks around the world, but have also earned the right to be worn with everything from casual to classic. Including in winter. You can style sneakers with down jackets, fur coats and coats – the main thing is that all the details of the image are harmoniously combined and fit into the general concept.
According to Demchenko, there is a pattern in combining sneakers with outerwear: the longer the outerwear, the better it looks with sneakers. The stylist also warns: if you see a model that clearly suits only one thing, it is better to refuse such a purchase. “Aim for versatility and look for shoes that are both polished and comfortable. At the same time, unnecessary decor and outdated solutions will be a clear sign that the thing is clearly not worth investing in,” he insists.
Polyaninova, on the other hand, believes that chunky sneakers will match well with oversized outerwear, and minimalist sneakers will match well with a jacket or classic wrap jacket.
How to care?
In order for your sneakers to last at least a few seasons, it is important to pre-treat them with special shoe care products. Regardless of what material the model is made of, you should immediately treat it with a water-repellent spray: this way the shoes will be less susceptible to snow, dirt, salt and reagents.
If a whitish layer of salt appears on your shoes, special cleaners will help, which will “pull” the salt to the surface, and then it can be easily removed with a napkin or soft brush. If your sneakers are wet, you should not put them on the radiator to dry them; This may cause the shoes to become deformed. Experts recommend that after straightening your sneakers with special wooden or cardboard blocks, unlace them and leave them at room temperature overnight.
“Shoes need to be washed with a special shampoo, and leather models need to be oiled and dried gently. If possible, do not wear your favorite genuine leather every day; Give it time to rest, so it can retain its original appearance longer,” Bitsadze advises.