We may still have a quarter of a year to go before 2019, but it isn’t too early to make predictions on what would rock sneaker lovers’ worlds next year.
The past years saw Balenciaga rise to the top when it comes to putting forth trainers that challenge the conventional form of the much beloved footwear; the luxury house once thought of as inaccessible have gained a wider following after successfully invading the sneaker scene. In 2017, hypebeasts all over the world could not wait to get their hands on the Speed, which has a construction combining the support of a rubber outsole and the cling of a sock. A year later, the Triple S will become both the most coveted and iconic of the “ugly sneakers”, and has also followed the Speed in success. Retailers and consumers alike have been clamoring for stocks, and for the former, it’s proving to be difficult to meet the demand. The popularity of Balenciaga’s sneakers even led to countless knockoffs and ripped designs sold at a lower price. Still, the Balenciaga name couldn’t be knocked out of the game.
Balenciaga’s 2019 contender: The Track
With Balenciaga propelled to the limelight through its two sneakers, it only stands to reason that the trend could still be continued onto 2019. Earlier this year, a new pair was introduced with a deceivingly simple name—the Track—and at the Paris Fashion Week, no less. Demna Gvasalia’s new silhouette easily stole the show, and for the months that followed, speculations on the release date, colorways and the price have been aplenty. Thankfully for us, a few details have been leaked in light of the sneakers’ September release.
A few observations: the Track, when put side-by-side with the Triple-S, gives the impression that Balenciaga has dialed down on the details. Just a few years ago, it would not even seem like a release from the brand; its aesthetics might lead us to believe that it is a retro-looking trail sneaker sold by sportswear outlets. But with Balenciaga’s affinity for the experimental, it does not seem so out of the blue now. The construction takes inspiration from style cues of the 1980s, and as with other garments that throw us back to the hedonistic decade, this one seems bound to have a cult following of its own. The chunky heel is still present, although this time with Gore-Tex and sturdy laces, and the upper has a lot going for it to sustain attention.
The sneakers that look sturdy enough to take trekking is made even more desirable with the neon injects on the silhouette. As of this writing, the shoes will be made in four colorways, all of which make it appear like pairs that time-traveled to the future. The entry colorways would be in fluorescent yellow and gray, white and orange, orange and neon blue, and gray, white and black—plenty enough options to choose from.
Don’t jump just yet—Balenciaga’s not giving them easy
Getting your attention is the easy part; copping the Tracks, well… that’s another concern. So far, Balenciaga has made them exclusively available at Selfridges, and you’ll have to set an appointment before dropping by as well as register at Balenciagatrack.com.
The decision to launch the sneakers this way is a reaction to the anticipated demand for the shoes, similar to what has been seen with the Speed Trainers and the Triple-S. In the past, it has also helped save time for buyers by not letting them have to line up. The Track is announced to set you back £550, or US$850.
Image credits: Fashion Tracer, GQ, INDIGITAL, @sneakerboy (Instagram)
