Jul
After years of thick-soled “dad sneakers” dominating the streets, the fashion world is now turning its gaze toward a fresh, sleeker alternative: low-profile sneakers. Slim, minimal, and packed with retro charm, these sneakers are quietly taking over 2025’s biggest style moments.
Goodbye Chunky, Hello Sleek
Sneaker trends saw a major shift between 2023 and 2024. While thick-soled designs like dad sneakers had their moment, the spotlight is now shifting toward more classic silhouettes. The rise of retro low-tech icons such as the Adidas Samba and tech-driven designs like the Salomon XT-6 signaled the beginning — but low-profile sneakers are the ones making real noise in 2025.
What are low-profile sneakers? As the name suggests, they’re slim, flat-soled shoes with a compact silhouette. Unlike their high-stacked counterparts, these kicks emphasize sleekness and simplicity. The trend quietly gained traction with Miu Miu x New Balance’s SS24 collaboration — and by 2025, it’s in full bloom.
Adidas has responded with renewed focus on thin-soled models like the Taekwondo and Tokyo, while other brands are now following suit.
One to Watch: PUMA SPEEDCATAmong the hottest contenders in this movement is Puma’s Speedcat. Originally designed to mimic fireproof racing shoes from the 80s–90s Formula 1 scene, its ultra-thin sole and streamlined shape make it a perfect match for today’s low-profile craze.
Things really heated up when Balenciaga debuted the “Ultrasoft Speedcat” on its FW25-26 runway. This highly anticipated collaboration used distressed suede and a twisted version of Puma’s iconic foam stripe — giving the classic Speedcat a raw, deconstructed edge. Since then, the Speedcat has become the poster child of the low-profile renaissance.
Must-Have Low-Profile Models in 2025
🔥 BALENCIAGA x PUMA “Ultrasoft Speedcat”
Inspired by vintage F1 racing footwear
Features ultra-soft suede and reimagined Puma foam stripe
Compact silhouette with a rebellious Balenciaga twist
Arguably the most buzzworthy sneaker of the year
[Click here to view the collab page]👟 VANS “Super Low Pro” (March 2025)
A fresh take inspired by Vans’ archival “Serio” series
Combines a nylon upper with suede T-toe overlays for a retro feel
Features a thin gum sole with durable tread
Nostalgic, versatile, and extremely wearable
[Click here for more details and purchase]🥋 ADIDAS “Taekwondo”
Homage to early 2000s martial arts slip-ons
Clean, laceless design with a soccer training shoe aesthetic
Available in black, white, and eye-catching metallics
Sophisticated yet sport-driven, blending fashion and function
Why Low-Profile Sneakers Are Taking Over
Low-profile sneakers offer a much-needed break from overbuilt designs. Their streamlined silhouette, throwback charm, and effortless versatility make them a perfect fit for today’s understated aesthetic. Whether you’re pairing them with tailored trousers, track pants, or a vintage tee, these shoes ground your look — literally and stylistically.
As the chunky sneaker era fades, now is the perfect time to slim things down and let your style speak subtly, yet confidently, from the ground up.
