SneakHER Trend: Ballerina Sneakers

     Mary Jane sneakers have some stiff competition on becoming the “IT” sneaker of the Summer and that’s the Ballet Sneaker. Like the Mary Jane sneaker, the Ballet sneaker is a lightweight, sleeker shoe, a difference from the bigger clunkier sneakers that have been in style for the past few years. Only a few athletic brands have ventured into this territory, with Puma leading the way, but we’re sure others will follow suit. Here’s a list of our favorite Ballet sneakers available now.

Puma Speedcat “Ballet”-$80 & Puma “Go”-$90

     Puma has been working double overtime staying ahead of trend and that can be said about their Speedcat “Ballet” and Speedcat “Go”. The Speedcat “Ballet” is the at top of the trend list, and features an all suede upper, embroidered Puma Cat logo on the toe, cut outs on the sides, and elastic straps for a snug fit and a true “ballerina” feel. As for the Speedcat “Go”, this sneaker closely resembles the OG shoe, but is constructed mostly of mesh, and replaces the traditional lacing system with an updated sportier one. Both pairs of sneakers are available now via the Puma and select retailers.

Converse Chuck Taylor “Dainty Ballerina”-$60 and up

     Converse, who is no stranger to fashion trends, has also thrown its hat into the ring, and released the Chuck Taylor All Star “Dainty Ballerina”. The “Dainty Ballerina”, is exactly that, dainty. This ballet inspired sneaker keeps the same and look and feel of a Chuck All Star Shoreline but removes the laces, and in its place is either an elastic, strip or a cute bow on the toe. The “Dainty Ballerina” is also available in assorted colors in either patent leather and canvas.

Bad Bunny x Adidas Para “Ballerina” -$120 & Adidas Taekwondo Mei “Ballet”-$90

     Adidas, who is also joining the trend has released two contenders as well, the Bad Bunny x Adidas Para “Ballerina” and the Adidas Taekwondo Mei “Ballet”.  Adidas and longstanding collaborator, Bad Bunny, recently released the Para “Ballerina” which is the hybrid of the iconic Adidas Taekwondo sneaker and a ballet slipper. The sneaker features a mixed satin, suede and canvas upper, along with the name “Benito” (BB’s legal name”) by the 3 Stripes. The Adidas Taekwondo Mei “Ballet”, is another Taekwondo shoe, but mimics a ballet slipper almost identically with is sleek, slender shape, pointer toe and criss cross lacing.