You don't have to be a full-blown sneakerhead to clock the value trainers add to a wardrobe. There's nearly no event, at least in chronically casual Australia, where a pair of sneakers can't be subbed in in place of heels.

So what's making waves in the sneaker world this year? Recently, sneaker trends have slimmed down drastically. Basketball styles like Nike Dunks and Air Force 1s were subbed out for dainty soccer-forward silhouettes like the adidas Samba and Spezial. In fact, it feels like we've hit peak Samba, with the style flooding sidewalks, offices, and our digital feeds. Which has one wondering if overexposure will continue push them out of the sneaker trend cycle in 2025?

You'll still catch bulky trail-running footwear in droves (Salomons are still on the rise). And who among us is willing to part with our always comfy Aasics, especially when Andersson Bell and Cecilie Bahnsen put their own spin on the style? However, there are a handful of sneaker styles that are due for a resurgence.

We anticipate the adidas SL72 will replace the Samba and Spezial. At Nike, the Cortez will draw an audience (I'm talking about the people who miss out on Bode's Astro Grabber collaboration). Meanwhile, slim sneakers will continue their reign, with Puma's Palermo sneaker still a hot piece of footwear realestate.

PUMA Speedcats

The Speedcat has experienced a resurgence in popularity over the last six months, becoming a go-to choice for those seeking a blend of retro appeal and motorsport heritage. Originally introduced in 1999, the sneaker draws inspiration from Formula 1 racing footwear, featuring a sleek, low-profile design, a distinctive suede upper, and grippy rubber soles to enhances traction.

ADIDAS SL 72

Let's suppose interest in the adidas Samba dies down after two years of going gangbusters. Where does that leave us? The Spezial perhaps; maybe even Gazelles. My feeling is that the adidas SL 72 will have the staying power to replace Sambas in 2024. The style is enjoying a surge in popularity thanks to its slender, nostalgic profile. Plus, it helps that they have Bella Hadid and RUSSH digital cover star Mary Fowler's tick of approval.

ONITSUKA TIGER Mexico 66

Like most sneakers, the Mexico 66 style from Onitsuka Tiger comes with its own origin story. Far from simply being the shoe Uma Thurman wears in Kill Bill, they were designed initially as a style for athletics, and in 1968 were selected as the official sneaker of the Olympic Games in Mexico City (yes, the one when Tommie Smith and John Carlos did the Black Power salute). Hence the name. Their shape has always seen people draw comparisons with the adidas Samba, and recently they've had a moment as an alternative to the popular German sneaker. Although, we suspect the style will hit its peak in 2024. Shrewd shoppers might opt for the Onitsuka Tiger Tokuten instead.

NIKE Cortez

Yes, the "Forrest Gump" shoe. Released 52 years ago now, and one of the first track shoes Nike designed, it would be naive to think the Cortez ever went out of fashion. It's all time. Nike re-engineered the recent versions of the shoe to feature a wider toe box and more durable materials. We particularly like the retro feel of the styles that arrive with nylon uppers. And if you can't get hold of the Nike x Bode Astro Grabber collaboration, then this is your next best bet.

DRIES VAN NOTEN Suede Sneakers

Dries Van Noten's slim sneakers have quickly become a cult favourite with the luxury crowd, embodying the House's signature blend of avant-garde design and understated luxury. The soft suede, coupled with a distinct two-tone palette, makes them a go-to statement piece for fashion-forward individuals seeking a more subtle kind of sophistication.

ADIDAS Taekwondo

The adidas Taekwondo sneakers draw inspiration from martial arts footwear, featuring a minimalist, slip-on design that pays homage to early 2000s aesthetics. Crafted from soft leather, they offer streamlined comfort, while the super low-profile rubber outsole provides flexible traction. Distinctive elements like unique forefoot stitching, bold 3-Stripes, and a lace cover contribute to their unique identity, making them a versatile addition to both casual and athletic wardrobes.

NEW BALANCE x MIU MIU 530 SL leather sneakers

While in 2024 the New Balance X Miu Miu 530 SL suede sneakers were the designer shoe of the moment, we're predicting for 2025 it will be the House's new leather iteration. Seamlessly blending sport and high fashion, and capturing the hearts of sneakerheads and fashion enthusiasts alike, this collaboration's minimalist design and signature distressed finish offer a luxe twist on a classic silhouette, making them the perfect addition to a polished, off-duty look.

RADICAL YES Ballet Core Trainer

If you're running with the silver sneaker trend but want something a little differnet from the Onitsukas, then these Melbourne-made Ballet Core Trainers from RADICAL YES might just be your answer. Already adored for their fusion of performance wear and delicate, ballet-inspired aesthetics, they're designed with a lightweight silhouette and flexible sole.

Feature image: one.