Sock sneakers are an unusual breed of shoes, at least when compared to classic kicks.

With a stretch-knit, breathable fabric, sock sneakers are a hybrid shoe made – as the name suggests – to resemble a sock.

The look existed before, but when Balenciaga launched its version of sock sneaker in 2016, the style achieved a cult-like following fast.

A curiosity ten years ago, nowadays, sock sneakers are everywhere.

You see them on Instagram assorted by social media influencers with techwear brands to create a sophisticated look.

You see them on the front row at runways in London, NYC, and Paris, worn by celebrities and designers alike.

And even on top chart songs, as it was the case of Cardi B wearing Balenciaga’s chunky Triple-S in her song “I Like It.”

While fit sneaker silhouettes like Balenciaga’s Speed Trainer and Adidas NMD City Sock are highly recognizable and desirable, Nike and Reebok recover ground fast.

Launching knitted textiles shoes that compete with Balenciaga and Vetements, the number of brands making sock-like sneakers is on the rise.

1. ZARA - Sock-Style High Top Sneakers ($9.99)

2. NIKE - Sock Dart SE Premium Sneakers ($140)

3. RICK OWENS X VEJA - Sock Runner Sneakers ($142)

4. ADIDAS - Originals NMD C1 Sneakers ($180)

5. REEBOK - Dmx Trail Hydrex Marathon Running Sock Sneakers ($240)

6. JOSHUA SANDERS - Blue Sock Sneakers ($413)

7. VALENTINO - Red(V) Sock-Style High-Top Sneakers ($420)

8. STELLA MCCARTNEY - High-Rise Loop Sneaker ($665)

9. GIVENCHY - Logo Sock Sneaker (850)

10. BALENCIAGA - Speed 2.0 Sock-Style Sneakers ($975)

See the full list on The VOU.