If you are even vaguely conversant with the fashion industry, you would know that there have been some defining movements towards a more decent, sustainable, and relaxed fashion. Knit sneakers are among the products of this movement. This novel footwear is the trifecta of comfort, style, and functionality.
Knit sneakers have completely upturned the footwear realm. Slowly but surely, people are veering towards knitted footwear as opposed to other types of shoes. Knit sneakers prove that you don’t have to compromise luxury for comfort, nor your style for fast fashion.
That being said, this might be the first time you heard about knit sneakers. Or, perhaps you’ve seen them around but never knew what to call them. Well, if we’ve piqued your interest, keep reading for a comprehensive guide on everything about knit sneakers.
What Are Knit Shoes?
What comes to your mind when you hear the word “knitwear?” Is it grandma’s hand-made sweaters with a personalized monogram at the front? Or is it the asymmetrical hat that you made as your first knitting project?
An assortment of outerwear such as sweaters, gloves, and hats, has always dominated knitwear. Then came knit shoes.
Knit shoes are game-changers. They represent a new archetypal footwear material, divergent from the traditional leather, textiles, synthetics, and rubber.
In essence, these shoes are knitted as opposed to sewn. Hence the manufacturing process itself is different. It is unlike traditional shoe manufacturing processes where mass-produced individual components are sewn together.
Contrastingly, uppers of knit shoes are entirely knit together from front to back. The soles usually feature other materials that boost its functionality and durability.
In this way, knit shoes are less modular and more personal, even if they are mass-produced from a machine. This makes it even better in terms of ethical implications on labor. But more on that later.
First, let’s delve into why knit sneakers are suddenly in vogue.
What Makes Knit Sneakers So Trendy?
Do knit sneakers really live up to the hype? The short answer is yes.
Indeed, one specific type of shoe can never benefit every single person. However, it’s hard to go wrong when it comes to knit sneakers. Here are a few reasons why.
● Functionality
You might think knit sneakers can't endure the day to day labor of running long errands. Turns out, not only are they ultra-functional, but they might even be more functional than the typical shoes.
These are quick to put on, easy to maintain, and have incredibly durable structures so you won’t wear them out too quickly.
● Comfortable for All Seasons
The woven upper lattice of the shoes makes them breathable. Knit sneakers are always light and airy, which means they are perfect for summers. You can also skip the socks altogether if you want.
Even for winters, the woven material insulates heat so well that you can wear them in the snow too.
Additionally, knit sneakers are suitable for general long-wear for the same reason. They will never scrape against your feet, so say goodbye to blisters.
Moreover, the shoes are very easy to personalize because they are knit together. If you’re an athlete, you need to fine-tune the small details like crevices, curvatures, and flexibility to your needs.
● Dynamic and Multifunctional
Think of knit sneakers as an all-in-one packaged deal. Whereas you would usually keep different types of shoes for various activities, these sneakers are multi-purpose.
The rubber sole makes them ideal for heavy exercise, while the knitted upper keeps them lightweight enough to carry out daily tasks.
Understandably, finding the perfect shoe for outdoor activities is very difficult. Not all shoes can withstand all terrains and every weather. If you’re looking for a one-time footwear investment that will maximize functionality, try Loom Footwear.
Loom Footwear prides itself on providing the most dynamic range of footwear ready to endure anything. Because all Loom Footwear products are waterproof, it makes them extremely durable and dynamic.
Experience the Perfect Blend of Style & Comfort with Loom's Knit Sneakers – Your Feet Will Thank You!
● Ethical and Sustainable Fashion
You don’t have to be a fashion monger to know that mass manufacturing can sometimes be wasteful and extremely laborious. Knit sneakers, on the other hand, ensure zero wastefulness. This is because there is technically no excess material.
So, if you care about ethical fashion, knit sneakers are a great start.
How to Care for Knit Sneakers
There’s nothing worse than those grimy patches and clogged grooves on your favorite knit sneakers. Cleaning knit sneakers is a little different than general sneaker care.
Hand Washing Knit Sneakers
This process does require a lot of patience. However, it’s not difficult. It’s just very meticulous.
What you’ll need:
- A small bowl
- 1 Tsp Dish soap
- Microfiber cloths (or any soft cloths)
- A toothbrush
Method
- Remove the laces
- Fill the bowl halfway with cold water
- Dilute your soap into the water
- Roll up a cloth and stuff it into the shoe
- Dip the other cloth into the diluted soap and gently scrub the sneakers all over
- If the stains are stubborn, you can use a toothbrush instead of a cloth
- Use a clean cloth to remove the soapy residue
- Hang the shoes out to dry
Can You Wash Knit Sneakers in a Machine?
This is not advisable for any shoes. However, if you absolutely must use a machine to wash knit sneakers, then make a note of the following:
- Wash them by themselves, so they don’t get tangled.
- Use cold water only.
- Let them air dry. Go the extra mile and stuff your sneakers with paper balls to help them hold their shape.
Conclusion
Here’s the thing, you don’t always have to choose between fashion or comfort. Knit sneakers offer an atypical yet refreshing contrast to your outfit. The personalized look complements your aesthetic, whether it's urban and flashy, or rustic and modest.
So what are you waiting for? It’s time to revamp your shoe collection and stock up your wardrobe with trendy knit sneakers.