## Salomon Sneakers: The Controversial ‘Ugly’ Trainers Taking Over Fashion
The Adidas Samba has reigned supreme for the past year, but a new contender is making waves in the world of footwear: Salomon. While some might call them ‘ugly,’ these once-niche hiking shoes are rapidly becoming a favorite among fashionistas and celebrities alike.
Founded in 1947 as a hiking brand, Salomon has earned a reputation for its cutting-edge materials, grippy soles, and signature toggles. This combination of practicality and flair has captivated both outdoor enthusiasts and style-conscious individuals, making Salomon a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world.
The Salomon Hype: From Hiking Trails to Runway Ready
The Salomon XT-6 SKYLINE style has become a particular point of contention, with trendsetter Bella Hadid, Sophie Turner, and even Emily Ratajkowski spotted rocking these unconventional sneakers. EmRata’s recent look, pairing Salomon XT-6 with a sheer dress and visible underwear, sparked further excitement around the brand, leading to the style selling out almost instantly.
Despite their relatively steep price point ranging from £130 to £350, Salomons are flying off the shelves. Collaborations with high-end brands like MM6 Maison Margiela are further fueling the craze, pushing the brand into the spotlight and solidifying its place in the fashion landscape.
The ‘Ugly’ Trainer Debate
Salomon’s unique design and functional aesthetic have sparked controversy. While some appreciate the brand’s bold and unconventional approach, others struggle to embrace their utilitarian appeal. Social media platforms are abuzz with opinions, showcasing the divisive nature of these trendy kicks.
On TikTok, @bigdaddyamyy quipped, ‘What are thoseeeee,’ upon seeing a pair of Salomons, while @stephaniedelarua exclaimed, ‘Those are not it.’ Katerina Valdez’s video featuring her new Salomon shoes garnered a mix of reactions, including a comment from AJGF, ‘No one can ever convince me a Salomon trainer is wearable anywhere but on a mountain path.’ However, these negative comments were countered by fans praising the shoes, calling them ‘damn nice,’ ‘cute,’ and ‘Salomon forever.’
A Marmite Brand with a Dedicated Following
The Salomon phenomenon highlights a trend: the ‘ugly trainer.’ What some deem unattractive, others celebrate as a bold fashion statement. Salomon has found its niche in the ‘Gorpcore’ movement, a style embracing practical, outdoor-inspired gear as chic streetwear.
As Megan Watkins, head stylist at SilkFred, explains: ‘While some may label them as “ugly” due to their utilitarian and ‘dad shoe’ design, that very aesthetic has become a go-to for anyone looking to push the boundaries of traditionally polished fashion, whilst being super functional and comfy.’
The rise of Salomon also aligns with the growing interest in wellness, with trends like the ‘hot girl walk’ driving demand for high-end, versatile products that fit an active lifestyle. Salomon, with its blend of functionality and fashion, caters perfectly to this ‘adventurous-but-chic’ crowd.
Styling Salomons: From Casual to Chic
Megan Watkins offers styling tips for incorporating Salomons into your wardrobe: ‘For a modern, on-trend look that fits into the popular Gorpcore aesthetic, pair them with loose-fitting cargo pants or tailored utility trousers for that effortless streetwear vibe. Fabrics such as fleece, denim and waterproof materials will all go well with utility footwear – and are a great choice for the upcoming autumn/winter season.’
For a more fashion-forward approach, create contrast by pairing your Salomons with softer silhouettes like a flowy midi skirt or a structured blazer. Layering oversized jackets or technical outerwear with minimalist basics creates balance and stays true to the Gorpcore aesthetic, showcasing the contrast between practical and refined pieces. This approach allows you to embrace the Salomon style while retaining a considered and laid-back look.
High-end fashion designers like Virgil Abloh for Off-White, Demna Gvasalia for Balenciaga, and Matthew M. Williams for Givenchy have embraced the Gorpcore trend, featuring utility wear and outdoor-inspired footwear on the runway. Their collections, showcasing chunky silhouettes and technical fabrics, confirm that utility wear has found its place in the high fashion zeitgeist.
Whether you embrace the ‘ugly’ trend or find yourself intrigued by the Salomon aesthetic, these sneakers are undoubtedly making a statement. Their functional design, celebrity endorsements, and association with the Gorpcore movement have solidified their place in the fashion landscape, leaving a lasting impact on the world of footwear.