Sole traders: Nine ways to wear trainers to work

"Join me in starting the year on the right foot and try these 2025 styles for size."

Thu, 16 Jan, 2025 - 17:42

Annmarie O'Connor - @aocdotme

Back in the day, I bought a pair of boxing boots for work.

Work was a London radio station, where trainers were considered business casual.

Fast-forward to the Stella McCartney spring-summer 25 runway, and I spot a model sashaying in a similar pair.

My younger self would approve — not to mention my older self.

After subsequent decades of heel-wearing, I’ve reverted to runners for sartorial kicks — and, more importantly, comfort.

Join me in starting the year on the right foot and try these 2025 styles for size.

Once a Formula 1® staple, now a celebrity favourite, watch as the PUMA Speedcat (in archival colours) takes over the style circuit. My bet’s on blue.

Courtside, Reebok keeps the spirit of the ‘90s alive with its Reebok Club C Revenge Vintage basketball aesthetic in off-white, red and pink.

For city living, the Asics Gel-Quantum Kinetic leverages the ASICS Institute of Sport Science know-how to address urban scenarios, like commuting or standing for long durations. Plus, they look great.

Not that you should choose. Nike has taken care of that with the Air Max ‘Waffle’.

Fusing the Waffle Racer and Air Max Plus into one, this Brat Green-adjacent gem houses a Tn-inspired midfoot shank and visible Nike Air units for hybrid ease.

Likewise, GANNI x New Balance Fresh Foam Trainer combines Scandi dress codes with light cushioning for high-fashion performance — perfect with the brand’s signature ruffled collar dress.

A nod goes to Russell & Bromley, Onitsuka Tiger, and Adidas, the latter of which may well see me reliving my Y2K days — no boxing ring required.

GET THE LOOK:

Alex Consani walks the runway during the Stella McCartney Paris Womenswear Spring-Summer 2025 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on September 30, 2024 in Paris, France.