When it comes to innovative footwear, Balenciaga sets the pace. No actually. The Balenciaga Pace sneaker is a continuation of the fashion maison's journey toward more grounded footwear offerings.

Obviously, this is not Balenciaga's first foray into deconstructed footwear, but where past examples leaned into high-fashion subversion and gritty streetwear culture, this era of Balenciaga takes a decidedly more earthy approach.

As such, the Balenciaga Pace sneaker looks a lot less like a typical sneaker we'd expect from the brand just a few years ago and more like a mild-mannered moccasin.

Pucker-toe stitching holds things together at the upper, while calfskin keeps things soft, dark, and totally grounded.

Off-center lacing adds some of that off-kilter charm Balenciaga has become known for.

The cork insoles, beyond just supporting the sneaker's organic aura, also do some pretty cool things where arch support and shock absorption are concerned. Who knew cork was the key to reliable comfort?

One of the coolest aspects of the shoe takes place at the rear, where a collapsible heel turns the sneaker into a hybrid mule. Even though it's all but become the standard these days, two shoes in one is still a pretty cool concept.

Available on the Balenciaga website for $995, the Pace sneaker also comes in a faded brown colorway.

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