One Good Off-the-Beaten-Path Slim Sneaker
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I’m not going to sit here and introduce the slim-soled sneaker. You’d have to have been living under a rock to avoid the takeover that more or less wiped out all remnants of other sneaker silhouettes. Largely thanks to adidas’ big three, but widely onboarded onto every brand’s catalogue in the blink of an eye.
While some argue this is a shoe on the way out (and aren’t exactly shy about shutting the door behind them), I continuously find myself drawn to a good slim sneaker. Partly because of their dynamic and discreet nature but largely because I find them damn comfortable. Having made a decent attempt to pivot into the more dad shoe category last winter in an effort to fit in with the cool kids, I found my feet had actually forgotten how to walk on a chunkier sole. Seriously, it was like walking on stilts. So for now, with the exception of a good derby, I’m sticking with what I know.
What I had been on the lookout for was an alternative to the overexposed Samba, Spezials and the resurfacing Stan Smith, which led me to K-Swiss, of all places.
Sure, on first glance, the Classic 66 NXT looks like it could be related to the usual suspects, but trust me, it’s got its own thing going on. The upper is soaked in contrasting grays, but the real showstopper is the almost reflective lining on the side stripes. It’s a small detail, noticeable only in the sunshine, really, but what can I say, it caught my eye. Besides that, the bowling-like toe is a nice touch.
Admittedly, upon unboxing, I wasn’t gagged, but on their maiden voyage alone, they received four separate compliments. Four. The trusty Samba could never. Since then, I’ve implemented them into my rotation and can safely say they’ve earned their place.
At the end of the day, I’m not saying these are going to change your life, or even your wardrobe. But slipping into something a bit unexpected has its perks, especially when it’s easy on the eyes and even easier on the feet. If you’re bored of the usual suspects, shake things up. Take it from me, worst case, your feet are happy. Best case? Instant ego boost.
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