Here Are 5 Underrated Dad Sneakers You Should Be Wearing
Chunky kicks that aren’t Balenciaga.
Dad sneakers, an unexpected style trend that erupted in 2017, are still very much all the rage within the fashion community at the moment. These days, it seems as though you can’t go anywhere online or IRL without seeing the Balenciaga Triple-S. And while we are fans of the Demna Gvasalia-designed shoe, we as huge sneakerheads ourselves do feel the need to explore other footwear silhouettes out there — a girl needs options.
From Reebok to PUMA models, we’ve spotlighted five of the most underrated dad sneakers that you should be wearing this season. While these styles might be under the radar right now, they certainly deserve a spot in your shoe cabinet. Be the trendsetter and take a look at our top picks below.
While you are here, be sure to also check out our five favorite sneakers for Spring 2018.
Nike Air Monarch IV
A go-to sneaker among many actual dads, the Nike Air Monarch might just be, well, the “dad-est” of all dad shoes. The unisex style is constructed with a sleek leather upper, which sits atop a Phylon midsole that provides lightweight cushioning and durable support. Its unpretentious, retro-looking profile makes the sneaker easy to style with any laid-back outfit. Designer John Elliott even gave his seal of approval during the Fall/Winter 2018 Fashion Month, debuting his own version of the classic shoe, which is sure to become a popular item among style lovers. Purchase a pair in your favorite colorway for $65 USD now on nike.com.
PUMA Prevail OG
Rich with ’90s vibes, the PUMA Prevail OG will add a touch of nostalgia to your casual weekend look. The release arrives in two colorways, including “Ocean” and “Grape,” both featuring an upper constructed with panels of white leather and black mesh. What really makes this silhouette stand out, however, is its statement-making sole designed with the brand’s Trinomic technology. The thick sole unit is almost reminiscent of YEEZY BOOST 700‘s chunky bottom, which probably explains why we can’t take our eyes off this pair. For $112 USD, you can now pick up this sneaker at select PUMA stockists like NAKED.
New Balance 991

NAKED
New Balance‘s 991 model is here to challenge the popular belief that dad sneakers can’t be cute and girly. The “Sand/Grey” colorway in particular is feminine and edgy at the same time. The pastel, rosy pink upper is juxtaposed with a hard-to-miss sole unit, which is crafted with the Abzorb foam cushioning technology. Sneaker princesses can now shop these spring-appropriate runners online for $204 USD.
Reebok DMX Run 10

SSENSE
The vintage-inspired Reebok DMX Runner 10 is the perfect shoe for the ’90s kids. Relaunched earlier this year, this sporty silhouette has been slowly gaining traction among the sneaker-obsessed. Featuring a mesh upper, the low-top sneaker is characterized by its exaggerated midsole which goes from the forefoot all the way up around the heel. Reebok’s signature logo can be found embroidered close to the heel, while a treaded translucent rubber outsole rounds off the look. For $145 USD, you can now purchase this pair at SSENSE.
Axel Arigato Tech Runner
Swedish label Axel Arigato offered its unique take on the dad sneaker trend in the beginning of 2018 with the debut of its Tech Runner. Available in a range of materials and colorways, this unisex style sees a futuristic look that can instantly elevate your style. The overall minimal trainer is designed with a bulky, sculptured sole that gives the shoe much character. Cop a pair in your size for £225 GBP (approximately $318 USD) at Axel Arigato’s web store as well as select stockists like HBX.