# Driver-Focused Minimalist Sneakers Mizuno Launches the 'Bareclutch' Driving Shoe with Mazda By Kanesa D | Published 2022-08-29 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bareclutch References: [hypebeast](https://hypebeast.com/2022/8/mizuno-mazda-bareclutch-driving-shoes-release-info) & [jpn.mizuno](https://jpn.mizuno.com/driving/bareclutch?did=dtctop_topbn) [Mizuno](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mizuno-2) has debuted a new outdoor footwear silhouette dubbed the ‘Bareclutch,’ which is a low-cut lifestyle sneaker made for a direct pedal feel when driving and walking through the city. The sneakers, which come in ‘White,’ ‘Black,’ and ‘Blue,’ boast a rounded sole and treaded bottoms for additional grip, and are geared towards consumer's looking for a pair of [driver-friendly shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-and-jeep). The sneaker was designed in partnership with Japanese automaker [Mazda](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mazda-cx50) and features a thin Mizuno COB sole which adds more cushioning. The ‘Bareclutch’ boasts a clean, minimalist, and monochrome design with artificial leather uppers, making it ideal for any occasion regardless of dress code. The Mizuno ‘Bareclutch’ sneakers will launch on September 20 via Mizuno’s website and select retailers. Image Credit: Mizuno ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.1/10 - Popularity: 75% | Activity: 66% | Freshness: 12% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Driver-focused Footwear:** Designing footwear specifically for a particular activity, like driving, can cater to the needs and comfort of consumers, leading to increased sales. - **Minimalist Design:** Minimalist design provides consumers with a sleek and modern look that can cater to a broad range of occasions. - **Partnerships with Brands From Different Industries:** Collaborating with brands from different industries, like the partnership between Mizuno and Mazda, can lead to innovative product designs that cater to a broader range of consumers. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Automotive:** Automakers can collaborate with shoe brands to design footwear specifically for driving that can add value to their product offerings. - **Sporting Goods:** Sporting goods brands can create hybrid footwear that caters to multiple activities and occasions, like the ‘Bareclutch.’ - **Fashion:** Fashion brands can incorporate minimalist design elements into their products to cater to consumers who prefer a sleek and modern aesthetic. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Modern Driving Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rerun-drive.md) - [Sporty Performance-Driven Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mizuno-2.md) - [Collaborative Knit Hiker Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wave-mujin-tl-mid-gtx.md) - [Traditional Formal Hybrid Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wave-prophecy-moc-1.md) - [Trail-Ready Neutral Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wave-mijun-tl.md) - [Weather-Proof Sport-Style Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mizuno-3.md) - [Slim-Fitting Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/minimus-trail.md) - [Eyeball Motif Bulbous Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/enerzy-running-shoe.md) - [Futuristic Slip-On Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adidas-unveils-climacool.md)