# Stealthy Strapped Shoes Nike's Strapped Sneakers are So Slick They Need to be Strapped Down By Kyle Towers | Published 2013-01-15 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/strapped-sneakers References: [sneakerfreaker](http://www.sneakerfreaker.com/sneaker-releases/Nike-Free-Sock-Racer-jet-Black/) & [nike](http://www.nike.com/ca/en_ca/) [Nike](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-pegasus-easyon-blueprint) has some much needed encouragement for those trying to uphold their New Year fitness goals with these stealthy strapped sneakers called the Free Sock Racers. Traditionally, straps are somewhat of a fashion faux pas, but they are pulled off quite nicely here. And considering its functional benefit in keeping you securely locked in, straps may be something that can be looked past faster than you are out the door for a run. The monochromatic color scheme works wonderfully here and will easily match with the rest of one's fitness gear. Its minimalist and simplistic design is beneficial for runners as the structure is more conducive to proper running form. Made of [breathable and lightweight fabric](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/flyknit-venture), these will make you feel as though you aren't wearing shoes at all -- just make sure to take them off before bed. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.6/10 - Popularity: 66% | Activity: 63% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Millennial - 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 - **Strapped Sneakers:** Opportunity for shoe companies to innovate by adding straps to running shoes for better fit and function. - **Monochromatic Color Scheme:** Opportunity for fashion companies to explore the trend of monochromatic color schemes in all aspects of clothing and accessories. - **Minimalist Design:** Opportunity for athletic gear companies to explore the benefits of minimalist design in athletic shoes and clothing for better performance and improved form. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Athletic Shoe Industry:** Opportunity for athletic shoe companies to incorporate straps into their designs and explore the benefits of minimalist design for better fit and function. - **Fashion Industry:** Opportunity for fashion companies to explore the trend of monochromatic color schemes in all aspects of clothing and accessories. - **Athletic Gear Industry:** Opportunity for athletic gear companies to explore and incorporate the benefits of minimalist design and breathability in workout clothing and shoes. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Toggle Securement Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-pegasus-easyon-blueprint.md) - [Secure Cable-Accented Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-lunar-roam.md) - [Performance Grid-Patterned Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-structure-26.md) - [Hyper-Futuristic Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fast-rb-nitrotm-elite.md) - [Athletic Tabi-Style Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fire-red-2.md) - [High-Mileage Off-Grid Trail Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-zegama-2.md) - [Split-Toe Sneaker Returns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/updated-air-rift.md) - [Velcro-Enclosed Lifestyle Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hal-studios-1.md) - [Structural Performance Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fastrb-nitro-elite.md)