# Sock-Like Sneakers The Balenciaga Speed Trainer Features a Full Sock By Mary Van Puymbroeck | Published 2017-06-06 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balenciaga-speed-trainer References: [hypebeast](https://hypebeast.com/2017/6/balenciaga-ribbed-speed-trainer-low) & [bergdorfgoodman](http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/Balenciaga-Speed-Ribbed-Low-Trainer-Sneaker-Mens/prod129070160_cat550100__/p.prod?icid=&searchType=EndecaDrivenCat&rte=/category.jsp?itemId=cat550100&pageSize=30&Nao=0&refinements=&eItemId=prod129070160&cmCat=product) Shoes with a sock-like aesthetic have been popping-up throughout the fashion world the past few seasons, but the [Balenciaga](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balenciaga-x-puma) Speed Trainer is the first pair to feature a full sock. Instead of a conventional upper, this high-fashion item features a black tube sock with a [rubber trainer sole](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/breeze-sneaker). The effect is ultra sporty and dramatic. The original Speed Trainer has received many fast-fashion interpretations that feature a much more commercially appealing version of the [sock sneaker](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sprinters). In response to this, Balenciaga has redesigned its fashion-forward shoe to be the most extreme version of the popular style. The redesign features minimal branding alongside the sole of the trainer, making for a laid back look. The Balenciaga Speed Trainer retails for $595. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.7/10 - Popularity: 96% | Activity: 96% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Hip Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/hipfashion) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Sock Sneakers:** The popularity of sock sneakers has birthed a fashion-forward interpretation of comfortable footwear using unconventional, minimalist and sleek designs. - **Hybrid Fashion:** Hybrid fashion enables designers to combine different styles, materials, and shapes to create new and exciting products that appeal to a wider range of customers. - **Athleisure Footwear:** Athleisure footwear is a growing trend that blends the worlds of athletics and fashion by providing shoes that are comfortable yet stylish. ### Who This Affects Most - **Fashion:** Fashion industry can disrupt traditional sneaker designs by creating hybrid products that combine the comfort of socks with the practicality of rubber soles. - **Sports:** Sports companies can create high-performance sock sneakers that provide the support athletes need while taking advantage of the latest fashion trends. - **Retail:** Retail companies can capitalize on the growing popularity of sock sneakers by designing their own products or partnering with popular fashion and sports brands. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Performance-Inspired Designer Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balenciaga-x-puma.md) - [Dynamic Fashion-Forward Basketball Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/basketball-sneaker-1.md) - [Chic Slim-Fit City Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balenciaga-city-sneaker.md) - [Second-Skin Luxury Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zero-shoe.md) - [Minimalist Sock-Like Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gucci-slipon-sneaker.md) - [Dynamic Ultra-High Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/platform-sneaker-1.md) - [Premium Technical Rugged Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hike-sneaker.md) - [Dynamic Pointed Luxe Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/reptile-sneaker-1.md) - [Banana-Made Luxury Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balenciaga-4.md)