We started with jeggings. Next came the skousers. The sneaker, a cross between a sneaker and a ballet flat, is a new fashion hybrid that is now gaining popularity. This surprising combination is rapidly taking over as the go-to springtime style.

With its elegant, almond-shaped form and bow accents, sneakerinas initially resemble traditional ballet flats. However, they have thick, sneaker-style bases that increase comfort and durability in place of the delicate soles we’re accustomed to.

Just like the cronut or the crookie, it might sound odd at first, but fashion lovers can’t get enough. Miu Miu’s £730 suede version complete with a sturdy rubber sole and Velcro strap sold out almost instantly. A more affordable satin and ruched design from Charles & Keith (£75) also flew off the shelves. Joy Montgomery, shopping editor at British Vogue, believes their popularity ties into the ongoing love for “ugly” but practical footwear.

Irish designer Simone Rocha was one of the first to play with the sneakerina concept. Back in 2020, she introduced her “ballet tracker” shoes chunky-soled flats with pearl and crystal-adorned crisscross straps. These have since become a signature of her brand, blending delicate ballet aesthetics with sporty practicality.

From the Runway to the Streets

Danish designer Cecilie Bahnsen also jumped on board last year, teaming up with Asics to create a hybrid shoe that sold out in just 10 minutes. Today, resale prices have tripled, proving just how in demand these styles are.

For 2025, Puma is reimagining their iconic Speedcat trainers, which were first introduced in 1999, by incorporating ballet-inspired design features. Consider a metallic finish and pre-sewn elastic straps to give an old favourite a new look.

The sneakerina trend has also caught the attention of Kiko Kostadinov. Last year, creative directors Laura and Deanna Fanning designed the Lella a hybrid shoe featuring a raised sole, faux fur lining, and grosgrain ribbon fastenings. According to them, the design blends old-school femininity with modern-day practicality, creating the perfect balance between style and comfort.

The Age of Hybrid Footwear

There are other surprise shoe trends that are making waves besides trainers. The “Snoafer,” a hybrid of a sneaker and a penny loafer, was first released by New Balance in 2023. With the release of their Speed Loafers, a cross between a trail runner and a boardroom dress shoe, running company Hoka entered the hybrid trend this week.

According to Montgomery, sneakerinas fit perfectly into the viral “wrong shoe theory” by stylist Annabelle Bornstein. The idea? Pairing unexpected footwear with outfits to create a striking contrast. She suggests styling sneakerinas with tailored pieces think structured blazers and sleek trousers for an effortless mix of elegance and edge.

Love them or hate them, sneakerinas are here to stay. And judging by how fast they’re selling out, this won’t be the last hybrid shoe to make its way into our closets.