# Footwear FUNctionality Drab products receive a stylized overhaul to blend purpose with fashion. By [Michael Hemsworth](https://www.trendhunter.com/Michael.Hemsworth), Contributing Researcher | Published Oct 15, 2014 | Category: [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/style-and-fashion-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/adaptable-footwear ## Key Figures - Trend score: 4.0/10 - Evidence articles: 5 ## What is the Footwear FUNctionality trend? **Footwear FUNctionality:** As consumers look for products that serve a purpose with a fashionable flair, styles like rain boots are given a stylized update. This blending of aesthetics marries style and function for consumers who are looking for products that go beyond mere functionality. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 5 featured examples - Articles from: Sep 18, 2013 to Sep 16, 2014 - Published: Oct 15, 2014 - Patterns: [Divergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/divergence) - Megatrends: [Hybridization](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/hybridization), [Youthfulness](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/youthfulness) ## Audience - Gender: 10% men, 90% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Themes within the Footwear FUNctionality trend ### Fashionable Functionality As consumers look for products that serve a purpose with a fashionable flair, styles like rain boots are given a stylized update. ### Adaptive Footwear Design Designing quality foot apparel that is adaptable to all weather conditions is highly important. ### Rain Boots for All More fashion designers are coming up with attractive pieces for both adults and kids to wear in rainy weather conditions. ## What the Footwear FUNctionality trend means for industry ### For Fashion Industry Footwear manufacturers and fashion designers have the opportunity to create rainproof, stylish wearables for men, women, and children. ### For Outdoor Gear Industry A range of outdoor gear industries can incorporate stylish waterproof footwear into their gear and clothing collections. ### For Sports Industry Integrating waterproof and stylish footwear can be incorporated for outdoor activities such as cycling. ## Trend signals for Footwear FUNctionality Trend score 4.0 out of 10, from popularity 64%, activity 49%, freshness 8%. - Popularity: 64% - Activity: 49% - Freshness: 8% ## Examples of the Footwear FUNctionality trend 5 featured examples from Sep 18, 2013 to Sep 16, 2014. - [Invisible Combat Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jeffrey-campbell-combat-boots): The Jeffrey Campbell Combat Boots are Seemingly Non-Existent (Category: Fashion) Implication: Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introduce crystal-clear footwear as a new trend in the fashion industry. - [Sneaker-Shaped Wellies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hunter-daleton-boot): The Hunter Daleton Boot are Slimmer and More Conspicuous (Category: Fashion) Implication: The footwear industry would benefit from incorporating more functional yet stylish designs for different occasions. - [Stylish Rainproof Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/urbanized-cycling-shoe): Urbanized Cycling Shoe by Jillian Tackaberry Keeps Feet Dry (Category: Fashion) Implication: Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate rainproof technology into fashionable footwear to meet the demand for stylish and functional shoes. - [Sleek Nordic Rain Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/unikia-nordic-grip-wets): The Unikia Nordic Grip Wets are Comfortable and Stylish (Category: Fashion) Implication: The Unikia Nordic Grip Wets highlight an opportunity for footwear companies to tap into the market for stylish and comfortable rain boots. - [Metallic Rubber Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hunter-boots): These Children's Hunter Boots Come in a Glistening Silver Colorway (Category: Fashion) Implication: Companies can capitalize on the latest style trends to create unique and fashionable clothing and accessories for children. ## Recent trend clusters - [Scaled Restraint](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/small-luxury-watches) (Fashion) - [Sneaker Theater](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sneaker-theater) (Fashion) - [Ritual Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/ritual-systems) (Fashion) - [Athletic Styling](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/athletic-styling) (Fashion) ## Trending in Fashion - [Paisley-Shelled Collector Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/paisley-shelled-collector-sneakers) - [Fruit-Inspired Digital Watches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/themed-wristwatches) - [Deluxe Beauty Advent Calendars](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/classic-and-prestige) - [Modular Winter Wardrobes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moose-knuckles-fallwinter-2026) All articles: [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion)