
Balenciaga Unveils New, Martial Arts-Inspired Zen Sneaker
Perhaps marking the end of chunky dad sneakers.
Balenciaga‘s latest sneaker, the Zen, takes a sharp turn from the brand’s popular Triple-S by introducing a fitted silhouette and flat sole. Inspired by the footwear of martial artists and football players, the sneaker is a lightweight and leather-free model suited for the Spring/Summer 2020 season.
The shoe’s close-fitting upper arrives in “Black” and “White/Black” colorways detailed with tonal stitching throughout that creates a quilted, wave-like effect. Laces are concealed behind a tongue stamped with the brand’s BB logo, also appearing at the heel. The sneaker’s streamlined, rounded shape lends itself to its name. Stay tuned to see if other brands following Balenciaga’s lead and begin eschewing chunky dad sneakers in favor of flat, sleek styles.
The Balenciaga Zen sneaker is available for $550 USD at the brand’s website.