Are High-Tops Still in Style?
The world of fashion is ever-evolving, with trends rising and falling at a rapid pace. One category that has experienced its fair share of highs and lows over the decades is footwear—specifically high-top shoes. From basketball courts to city streets, high-tops have long held a place in both athletic performance and urban style. But as minimalist silhouettes, sleek sneakers, and chunky low-cut designs dominate recent runways and social media feeds, many are asking: Are high-tops still in style?
To answer this question, it’s essential to understand the history and cultural significance of high-top shoes, analyze current fashion trends, and examine how designers, athletes, and influencers continue to shape their relevance today.
A Brief History of High-Tops
High-top shoes first gained popularity in the early 20th century, primarily for functional reasons. Their extended ankle coverage provided added support, making them ideal for sports like basketball. The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, introduced in 1917 and officially branded in 1923, became one of the earliest and most iconic high-top sneakers. For decades, it was the go-to shoe for basketball players and later embraced by musicians, artists, and rebellious youth subcultures.
In the 1980s, the high-top sneaker saw a meteoric rise thanks to the NBA and the emergence of superstar athletes like Michael Jordan. The release of the Air Jordan I in 1985—a bold, black-and-red high-top—was not only revolutionary in design but also controversial (it was famously banned by the NBA for violating uniform rules). This ban, however, only fueled demand and cemented the shoe’s status as a cultural icon. Throughout the ’80s and ’90s, high-tops were synonymous with street credibility, hip-hop culture, and athletic excellence.
By the 2000s, fashion began to shift. Low-top sneakers, driven by brands like Nike, Adidas, and Vans, started gaining traction among younger consumers who favored a more streamlined, casual look. The minimalist aesthetic grew in appeal, and high-tops began to fade from mainstream wardrobes, becoming associated more with retro nostalgia than contemporary style.
Current Trends and Revival
Despite their temporary decline, high-tops have never fully disappeared. In fact, they’ve been steadily making a comeback since the late 2010s. Several factors contribute to their resurgence:
Retro Revival Fashion cycles tend to repeat every 10 to 20 years, and the 1990s and early 2000s aesthetic has made a strong return. Oversized clothing, baggy jeans, and vintage-inspired sneakers—including high-tops—are now staples in streetwear collections. Brands like Nike, Puma, and Reebok have reissued classic high-top models, tapping into consumer nostalgia while updating materials and colorways for modern tastes.
Celebrity and Influencer Endorsements Celebrities play a crucial role in shaping footwear trends. Artists such as A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Rihanna have frequently been spotted wearing high-top sneakers, blending them with high-fashion ensembles. Runway shows during Fashion Weeks in Paris, Milan, and New York have featured high-top variations from luxury labels like Balenciaga, Dior, and Gucci, further legitimizing their place in contemporary fashion.
Athleisure and Functional Fashion The rise of athleisure—a blend of athletic wear and everyday fashion—has created space for functional footwear to be stylish. High-tops offer both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits, such as ankle support and durability. As people prioritize comfort without sacrificing style, high-tops fit naturally into this evolving wardrobe philosophy.
Customization and Limited Editions Sneaker culture continues to thrive, with collectors and enthusiasts eager to own exclusive or limited-run designs. High-tops, due to their larger canvas, allow for more creative expression through unique patterns, materials, and collaborations. Releases like the Travis Scott x Air Jordan VI or the Off-White x Nike collection often feature high-top models, driving hype and desirability.
Design Evolution
Modern high-tops are not simply replicas of their predecessors. Designers have reimagined the silhouette to suit current aesthetics. For example:
Materials: Leather, suede, and canvas remain popular, but new textiles like mesh, neoprene, and recycled fabrics are being incorporated for breathability and sustainability. Color and Detailing: Bold color blocking, metallic finishes, and deconstructed elements give high-tops a futuristic edge. Proportions: Some brands have experimented with exaggerated tongues, extended collars, or platform soles to create a bolder visual impact.These innovations ensure that high-tops remain relevant and exciting, rather than relics of the past.
Cultural Significance Beyond Fashion
Beyond their appearance, high-tops carry symbolic weight. They represent rebellion, individuality, and self-expression. In music videos, films, and art, high-top sneakers often signal authenticity and connection to urban roots. They’re worn by skateboarders, dancers, and activists alike—each group infusing the shoe with new meaning.
Moreover, high-tops have become a canvas for social commentary. Special edition releases have addressed issues like racial justice, environmental awareness, and mental health, transforming the shoes into statements beyond style.
Are High-Tops Still in Style? The Verdict
Yes—high-tops are absolutely still in style, though their popularity fluctuates depending on context and region. While they may not dominate the mainstream the way they did in the ’80s and ’90s, they occupy a respected and dynamic space in today’s fashion landscape.
Their enduring appeal lies in versatility. High-tops can be dressed up with tailored trousers and a leather jacket or paired casually with jeans and a hoodie. They work across genders, ages, and cultures, adapting to various personal styles. Whether someone is drawn to the classic Converse, the performance-driven Nike LeBron line, or a high-fashion reinterpretation from Maison Margiela, there’s a high-top to match nearly every taste.
Furthermore, as sustainability becomes a growing concern, many brands are investing in durable, long-lasting designs. High-tops, built for support and longevity, align well with this shift toward mindful consumption.
Conclusion
High-top shoes are far from obsolete. They’ve weathered shifts in fashion, survived periods of obscurity, and emerged stronger through reinvention and cultural resonance. While trends come and go, the high-top endures—not just as a shoe, but as a symbol of identity, creativity, and resilience.
So, are high-tops still in style? Absolutely. They may not be the only choice in today’s diverse sneaker market, but they remain a powerful, expressive, and stylish option for those who value both form and function. As long as culture continues to celebrate individuality and heritage, high-tops will keep lacing up and stepping forward—into the future.