Why is the sneaker not a “trainer”?

The world of footwear has its dictates and codes that can seem difficult when you enter this sector for the first time. One of the models that creates the most doubts is found in the field of sports shoes. Often, in fact, there is a tendency to include sneakers and gym shoes in the same category , considering them two similar or even identical models.

Wanting to go deeper, however, we realize that these two types have significant differences . If you too are confused when you have to buy them, don't worry: making the right choice, from today, will be a breeze! In this article, we will help you understand their distinctive features to adapt them to your needs and your style.

When did the term “sneakers” originate?

Charles Goodyear studying the "vulcanization" process

Let's make a necessary premise: to get to the heart of the matter we need to take a little trip back in time. It was 1832 in America when Wait Webster patented the first rubber sole to adhere to shoes . A few years later, in 1839, Charles Goodyear studied a "trick" to give rubber a more robust consistency , through the process of "vulcanization".

These two discoveries were essential to arrive at the first real sports shoe . In 1850, the English created a prototype similar to the one we use today : a shoe with a rubber sole and a canvas upper. They named it “Plimsoll” because the rubber strip on the sides recalled the waterline created by Samuel Plimsoll.

And here comes the twist: once the shoe was imported into the USA, Americans began to call it "Sneaker". In the twentieth century, then, attempts were made to improve it further, to create a shoe that could be good for athletes and reduce injuries during their sessions. More technical materials and different features were added and they were marketed by the Rubber Company . These patents inspired Converse , Adidas and Nike brands that we still find today that continued to evolve the model, always with a view to improving athletic performance.

Under the lens: properties compared

Photo by Fachry Zella Devandra

Today, we are led to no longer include sneakers and gym shoes in the same category to better respond to the different needs of consumers. Let's see, in detail, what changes between the two types of shoes.

Technical and functional features

The first important distinction to make concerns the different context in which we are going to use them based on their technical characteristics . In particular:

• Sneakers: These are designed to support your feet during physical activity . They usually have cushioned and technical soles, which can provide stability and support during exercise . They are made of breathable materials, ideal for absorbing sweat and keeping your feet cool during your workout.
• Sneakers: also called "casual shoes ". These are shoes that combine comfort and style, designed to accompany our steps in everyday life . Generally characterized by rubber soles and uppers in materials such as leather, canvas or synthetic materials, sneakers are particularly appreciated for their design and aesthetics. They are perfect for a casual look and can also be worn on many informal occasions.

Aesthetic and design features

Another element that immediately gives us a difference between the two shoes is the most visible detail even to the less experienced: that is, the shape of the shoe , from a purely aesthetic point of view. In this case:

• Sneakers: they are made in mainly bright colors to make them more visible during outdoor training , especially at night or in low-light conditions. This helps improve the athlete's safety. Furthermore, these colors can positively influence the athlete's morale , making him more motivated during the session. Furthermore, aesthetics must never affect the functionality for which the shoe was designed.
• Sneakers: they are primarily a fashion accessory , whose key plus is to stand out from other daytime footwear by virtue of their comfort. Compared to gym shoes, there is more choice in terms of materials, colors and details that often have nothing to do with the technical attributes.

Style and personality features

During our analysis there is another element that we cannot ignore: the two models are intended for different targets. Specifically:

• Sneakers: those who prefer this type of footwear denote a personality that is very centered on a linear type of thinking, devoted to practicality . They could therefore be more oriented towards a functional lifestyle and make their choice based on the sporty and performance aspect.
• Sneakers: Those who choose to wear them focus more on the aesthetic factor . It defines a personality more inclined to experiment with new trends and to show creativity in their style. These people can be seen as more extroverted and daring in the selection of their outfits.

Occasions of use

The last difference we want to focus on is the most obvious one, that is, the context and clothing with which they are worn:

• Sneakers: they are primarily dedicated to athletes and are used in environments dedicated to physical activity such as gyms or sports facilities. The choice between the various models is mainly based on the type of role that must be played, for example those with studs are intended for footballers while those of tennis players are designed to be very light, so as not to limit the athlete's movements. They are ideal for those with a dynamic style. They are also used in urban contexts for those who want to feel light during long walks . The right outfit should be one that respects the codes of technical clothing such as tracksuits. However, it is not uncommon for someone to use them "outside the framing " as an accessory to stand out from the crowd therefore under "daily" clothes.
• Sneakers: there are many occasions and outfits in which to wear sneakers, from everyday life to mostly informal contexts . They are perfect for those who love casual, urban or minimal style , as they go very well with the main items of these styles such as jeans, leather jackets, blazers or t-shirts with soft and clean lines.

What are the benefits?

To give you the most complete picture possible on the subject , let's now look at the key advantages for choosing your new pair of shoes well.

Benefits of sneakers:

1. Versatility: they can be worn with a wide range of outfits, from the most basic and comfortable to the most formal, allowing greater flexibility both in the occasions of use and in the choice of combinations with multiple items in our wardrobe.
2. Comfort: They are designed to offer a high level of support for the feet, thanks to the cushioning and ergonomic shape, but they are not suitable for sports activities.
3. Style: There are many models on the market and there is more choice in terms of materials. This allows us to better express our personality.
   

Benefits of sneakers:

1. Performance: They are specifically designed for sports activities and offer optimal stability during training.
2. Protection: They are made with materials and technologies that protect the feet from possible injuries during physical activity.
3. Performance improvement: they can significantly improve the performance of those who wear them, precisely because in sneakers each category of sport finds an effective answer suited to the needs of the sport they wish to practice.

In conclusion, both models have their advantages and strengths. While sneakers are more suitable for everyday use, gym shoes are a solution designed for the world of sports. Next time you find yourself having to choose between the two, remember that they are not the same thing. We are sure that with this guide you will no longer be able to go wrong.