Footwear Hits And Misses
Fashion judgment often starts from the ground up. Shoes grab attention before you even realize it, setting the tone for everything else. Some pairs spark admiration, while others earn nothing but side-eyes. So what exactly are the shoe world's greatest hits and infamous flops? Let’s kick things off with the shoes that took the most heat before moving on to the ones we all love. How many of these have you owned?
1. Crocs Classic Clog
First released in 2002, the Crocs Classic Clog was initially aimed at boaters. However, its foamy build and ease of use turned it into a cultural punching bag. Critics mocked the look, yet over 850 million pairs have been sold.
2. Steve Madden Slinky Platform
A late-'90s icon, this slip-on heel featured a stretchy black band and chunky foam sole. Its fame soared as celebrities like Britney Spears and the Spice Girls wore them on red carpets and in magazines. However, the elastic strap often loosens over time, leading to wobbly ankles and fashion regrets.
TRENDING STEVE MADDEN PLATFORMS by A Sip of Substance
3. Balenciaga Speed Trainer
With its sleek sock-like knit upper and chunky sole, it looked like luxury gym wear if orthopedic style were suddenly cool. Originally priced around $695, it drew mixed reactions. Fashion editors praised it, but skeptics called it designer slippers.
4. Vibram FiveFingers KSO
The KSO debuted in 2009 and championed "barefoot" running. Each toe had its slot, and the flexible sole encouraged natural movement. Unfortunately, lawsuits soon followed over injury claims. While some runners still swear by them, others think they look like amphibious slippers straight out of a sci-fi set.
5. UGG Classic Ultra Mini
The Ultra Mini hit shelves in 2020, shortening the once-tall classic boot. Critics derided its stump-like silhouette, calling it shapeless. Nonetheless, celebrities embraced it, from Kendall Jenner to Gigi Hadid. Its shearling lining and slip-on ease make it a cozy staple.
UGG Classic Ultra Mini SKU: 9719754 by Shop Zappos
6. Nike Air Monarch IV
Released in 2009, the Monarch IV earned the nickname "Dad Shoe" for good reason. It featured thick midsoles and a no-nonsense attitude. Although rarely praised for looks, it became Nike's best-selling training shoe. Surprisingly, fashion's ironic love for "ugly" shoes gave the Monarch a second wind.
7. Pleaser Adore-708 Clear Heels
The Adore-708 is made by Pleaser USA, which is known for its exotic and performance footwear. Frequently worn by dancers and drag performers, the shoe balances theatricality with surprising comfort. Though often mocked outside niche circles, it remains a bold symbol of expressive fashion.
8. Isabel Marant Bekett Wedge
Why did so many fall for the sneaker wedge? The Bekett featured velcro straps and hidden elevation. Worn by Beyonce and Alicia Keys, it blurred the line between street and chic. Yet its bulkiness clashed with modern minimalism.
9. Rick Owens Mega Lace-Up Boot
Towering nearly knee-high, this avant-garde boot pairs leather panels with massive soles and dramatic laces. Created by fashion provocateur Rick Owens, it commands attention and rejection in equal measure. Fans see art; detractors see absurdity.
Rick Owens x Dr. Martens 1460 DMXL Megalace Boots by eight one three seven
10. Supreme x Nike Air More Uptempo
When Nike fused Supreme branding into the 1996 Uptempo silhouette, sneaker culture went wild. The exaggerated "AIR" became "SUPREME," stretching across both shoes. Though released in limited quantities in 2017, resale prices quickly soared above $1,000. Ironically, the collaboration's visual loudness is precisely why it's so divisive today.
Review & On-Feet: Nike x Supreme Air More Uptempo "Metallic Gold" by Sean Go
Hate may be loud, but love sticks around longer. Now that we've aired out the shoes people love to roast, it's time to step into the pairs that earned real affection.
1. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star
The All Star was worn by basketball players in the '20s and adopted by punks and poets in the '70s. Its journey spans over a century. Despite being rarely used on the court today, it's the best-selling basketball shoe of all time.
2. Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG
The Jordan 1 debuted during Michael Jordan's rookie year and instantly defied NBA dress codes. Featuring the now-iconic "Bred" colorway, it sparked controversy and skyrocketing demand. To this day, its resale value remains high. Additionally, it anchors the multibillion-dollar sneaker resale industry.
3. Vans Classic Slip-On Checkerboard
Introduced in 1977, this canvas slip-on gained cult status thanks to Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Its rubber waffle sole made it ideal for skateboarding, while the black-and-white checkerboard gave it an unmistakable flair. Admittedly, durability isn't its strength, yet that only adds to its slouchy charm.
4. Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed
The Arizona features contoured cork-latex insoles that mold to the wearer's feet over time, offering orthopedic support many find irreplaceable. It was initially popular among health-conscious subcultures, but its appeal has grown. Notably, designers like Dior and Valentino have since collaborated with Birkenstock to push the sandal into high-fashion territory.
5. Dr. Martens 1460 Boot
Built with air-cushioned soles and full-grain leather, the 1460 was engineered for utility but adopted by rebels. It became part of British youth subcultures in the '70s and '80s. Furthermore, its unisex style and symbolic edge have kept it in continuous production for over 60 years.
6. Reebok Club C 85
Originally launched in 1985 as a minimalist tennis shoe, the Club C 85 has stood the test of time. Its clean leather upper and neutral palette make it endlessly wearable. Think of it as the denim jacket of sneakers—versatile and hard to hate.
Reebok Club C 85 Vintage Review by Liang Chun
7. New Balance 990v5
The 990v5 features ENCAP midsole technology for superior stability and cushioning. What's surprising is that it's hand-crafted in the USA and one of the few sneakers that bridge dad fashion and hype culture. Consequently, it became a rare crossover hit embraced by Gen Z and retirees alike.
Honest - New Balance MADE 990v5 OG 'Grey' Review & On Feet by Samuel Sagua
8. Blundstone 500 Chelsea Boot
Introduced in the '60s but based on a 19th-century design, the Blundstone 500 is built for durability and all-weather wear. Its TPU outsole and water-resistant leather have made it essential in both rural and urban settings. Fans also appreciate how comfortable it feels right out of the box.
9. Adidas Stan Smith Originals
Originally named the "Adidas Robert Haillet," this tennis shoe was rebranded in 1978 to honor American player Stan Smith. Its perforated stripes and green heel tab became instantly recognizable. Surprisingly, Adidas stopped production in 192011, only to bring it back in 2014 after public demand surged globally.
Jason V from New Westminster, BC, Canada on Wikimedia
10. Nike Air Force 1 '07
This 2007 refresh of the 1982 classic kept the air-cushioned sole but improved the stitching and toe box shape. Its all-white version is particularly beloved, often referred to as a "fresh pair" that demands pristine care. It's one of Nike's best-selling shoes year after year.
