We reminisce back in 2015 when Boost was first introduced, where Adidas changed the sneaker game globally with the Ultra Boost, NMD’s and Yeezy Boost. The preferred aesthetics for sneakers then were slick and had a sharp shoe shape until the Yeezy Boost 350 V2 were released. The phenomenal demand for them changed the landscape of the sneaker scene and the preference of sneakerheads towards bulky shoes. These bulky shoes are familiarly referred to as ‘Dad Shoes’ in current times and have become the current trend in the sneaker scene. High-end brands have jumped onto the ‘Dad Shoes’ bandwagon and have definitely made their mark in the streetwear scene with their designs that relate to the current streetwear trends. If you were thinking of buying a pair of ‘Dad Shoes’ to complete your streetwear look, we are here to help out. Here’s a list of some ‘Dad Shoes’ that are trending now and are Masses-approved!
9. Skechers D’Lites
The last time we heard Skechers were the ‘in’ thing was during the early 2000’s and with the current sneaker trend, Skechers is taking the opportunity to do a comeback. Skechers is very well-known for their sneaker’s comfort and build as they accommodate different types of feet which fulfill the need of every Dad’s feet hence, ‘Dad Shoes’. One of the suggested silhouettes from this brand for anyone looking would be the Skechers D’Lites which were endorsed by K-Pop’s famous band, EXO. The price point is definitely affordable and if you were wondering whether its worth your money, we would say yes as you’re paying for aesthetics, comfort and proper shoe fit for your feet’s needs.
8. Anta LA Runner
Many of you may not be aware of this brand especially this silhouette but this pair deserves to be on this list. Robbie Fuller from Adidas was headhunted by Anta to design this silhouette known as the Anta LA Runner. You may see resemblances in terms of design when compared to certain Adidas silhouettes but the best part about this silhouette is that this is an original, official design for Anta and is only retailing for around RM240. If you are wondering where to cop these, contact your most trustworthy Taobao agent and make your order today because this pair has got to be one of the most affordable ‘Dad Shoes’ with a high-end look to it.
7. Balenciaga Triple S
After Balenciaga’s success with their Speed Runner’s, Balenciaga announced the release of their next silhouette, the Balenciaga Triple S. The silhouette was released in four different colourways during its debut and sold out. This pair definitely falls into the ‘Dad Shoes’ category because of its bulky build and besides the bulkiness, the weight of the shoe matches the aesthetics of it. The retail price is on the higher side for these because, Balenciaga (duh). Nevertheless, this made it into our picks because it very well defines the look of a Dad Shoe.
6. Gucci Rhydon Sneaker
If you are not into athletic-based brands and prefer a dapper look, then the Gucci’s Rhydon Sneaker is made for you. We know certain sneakerheads prefer not to clash on-feets with other sneakerheads whenever they’re out to make sure they stand out from the rest. The price point on these is in the higher range, nearing RM4,000 where many other sneakerheads would have a more difficult time justifying this purchase and end up not buying these. Most high-end brands emphasize the quality of their products as how Gucci did on these to ensure the positioning of their brand remains at top tier, so if you are the type of sneakerhead that would pay for quality, this sneaker will be worth your money as Gucci uses softened washed leather in cream color to provide their consumers with quality and sophisticated aesthetics.
5. Fila Disruptor II
Fila made a comeback last year when their new apparels fit perfectly with the trend of streetwear then. They came into the scene at the right time with the right product allowing them to position their brand in the streetwear scene. One of their well-known pieces is the Fila Disruptor II which are slowly being picked up by many when it comes to ‘Dad Shoes’ with its fierce, bulky design yet affordable pricing. Fashionistas and sneakerheads haven’t really jumped onto the Fila Disruptors yet but with the overly saturated market of Yeezy’s, the Fila Disruptor II have become one of the main choices in this category. We would highly suggest these as a go-to pair with its clean, white colourway especially with a low retail price and a resell price around the RM500 – RM600 range which is affordable and cheaper compared to some other sneaker’s retail price.
4. Nike Air Max 95
This silhouette needs no introduction and we may clearly observe that this pair deserves to be in the ‘Dad Shoes’ category. Nike has plenty of silhouettes to choose from but we have high hopes in the Air Max 95 as it has a bulky build and has been around the sneaker scene long enough to conclude that the design is timeless. We would highly recommend this pair as the pricing is affordable, has a strong history (old enough) and fulfills all the requirement of the ‘Dad Shoes’. The best part about this silhouette is that there are some pairs rare enough to be considered a ‘grail’ and if you are into sneaker collecting, this pair is meant for you.
3. Yeezy Boost 700 ‘Wave Runner’
This pair was available for purchase only through ‘Yeezy Supply’ recently, however, Adidas has announced a global re-release that will take place soon this year. At a resell price of RM3,000 and above, it is definitely one of the higher priced ‘Dad Shoes’ in the market but the design itself provides you with the bulky shoe look yet modern enough to match with your streetwear outfit. Some may beg to differ that this pair is purely riding on the hype since its a pair of Yeezys, but with its clean colourway, this pair offers versatility when it comes to different outfits. We believe that this pair may have started the ‘Dad Shoes’ trend with its photos resurfacing much earlier than its release date, but opinions may differ among sneakerheads.
2. Raf Simons x adidas Ozweego
The Raf Simons Ozweegos have been around even before the ‘Dad Shoes’ sneaker trend took place. As we observe the design of the shoes, it is self-explanatory why it is on this list. The Ozweegos garnered more attention recently when A$ap Mob debuted the ‘RAF’ song due to A$ap Rocky being a fashion icon in the music industry, we definitely saw a rise in demand for the Ozweegos. It is safe to say that the Ozweegos are more reasonably priced as a high-end brand compared to Gucci, Balenciaga and more. Some people are not too keen with the design but nevertheless, still one of the better ‘Dad Shoes’ out there.
1. New Balance 991
This brand has been slept on for far too long but the time for New Balance to shine again has come. New Balance is famously known as the ‘Dad Shoes’ brand with sneakers built for comfort with high-quality premium materials especially the ‘Made In UK’ and ‘Made In USA’ range. Their NB1500, NB998 and NB997 silhouettes are well-known to sneakerheads for their sharp aerodynamic shape, rarity when it comes to certain collaborations and concepts. However, there are other silhouettes by the brand that are often overlooked and we believe that these silhouettes are ready to make a comeback. We highly suggest the NB991 silhouette which was made famous by the late Steve Jobs for your ‘Dad Shoes’ needs. You may not be as successful as Steve Jobs in this pair, but you’ll succeed in completing your streetwear outfit with this pair.
