Why Are They Called High-Tops?
The term “high-tops” is widely recognized in the world of footwear, especially among sneaker enthusiasts, athletes, and fashion-conscious individuals. But have you ever stopped to wonder why they are called high-tops? The answer may seem obvious at first glance—because they are high—but there’s much more to the story than meets the eye. The name “high-top” refers not only to the physical height of the shoe but also to its historical evolution, functional design, cultural significance, and influence on athletic performance and streetwear trends.
To understand the origin of the term, we must first look at the basic structure of a high-top shoe. A high-top sneaker extends above the ankle, typically covering the lower portion of the calf. This contrasts with low-top sneakers, which end below the ankle, and mid-top shoes, which sit just at or slightly above the ankle bone. The defining characteristic of a high-top is its elevated collar, which wraps around the ankle for added support and coverage. This structural feature is precisely what gives the shoe its name: “high” refers to the height of the upper part of the shoe, and “top” refers to the uppermost section that covers the foot and ankle. Hence, “high-top” literally means a shoe with a high upper.
The concept of high-top footwear dates back over a century. One of the earliest examples can be traced to the early 20th century when basketball was still a relatively new sport. In 1917, Converse introduced the All Star, a canvas-and-rubber shoe designed specifically for basketball players. While it wasn’t originally marketed as a high-top, the design quickly evolved to include a higher cut to provide better ankle support during fast-paced movements on the court. Athletes found that the extra height helped stabilize their ankles, reducing the risk of sprains and injuries during lateral cuts and jumps. As this design gained popularity, the term “high-top” naturally emerged to describe this new style of athletic shoe.
The functionality of high-tops played a crucial role in cementing their place in both sports and everyday fashion. Ankle support is one of the primary reasons high-tops became so popular among athletes. In sports like basketball, volleyball, and even certain types of training, sudden changes in direction and impact from jumping put significant stress on the ankles. The extended upper material of a high-top sneaker acts as a brace, limiting excessive ankle movement and offering a sense of security during intense physical activity. This practical benefit made high-tops a preferred choice for many professional and amateur athletes alike.
However, the appeal of high-tops extends far beyond athletic performance. Over time, they became symbols of identity, rebellion, and self-expression. In the 1980s and 1990s, high-top sneakers were embraced by hip-hop culture, where fashion and music intersected in powerful ways. Artists like Run-D.M.C. famously wore Adidas Superstar high-tops without laces, turning the shoes into iconic status symbols. Their hit song “My Adidas” further solidified the cultural importance of high-top sneakers. Wearing high-tops became a way to show allegiance to a particular subculture, express individuality, or make a bold fashion statement.
The visual impact of high-tops also contributes to their enduring popularity. Because they cover more of the leg, high-tops draw attention to the lower half of the body and can influence how a person’s silhouette appears. When paired with jeans, shorts, or athletic wear, high-tops create a distinctive look that stands out compared to low-top alternatives. Designers have capitalized on this aesthetic potential, creating high-tops in a wide range of colors, materials, and patterns—from classic leather and canvas to futuristic synthetics and limited-edition collaborations.
Despite their advantages, high-tops have faced criticism and debate over the years. Some studies have questioned whether the extra ankle coverage actually prevents injuries, suggesting that proper conditioning and technique may be more important than shoe height. Additionally, high-tops can sometimes restrict natural ankle mobility, which might not be ideal for all types of physical activity. As a result, many modern athletes now opt for low-top or compression-style basketball shoes that prioritize lightweight construction and flexibility. Nevertheless, high-tops remain a staple in both athletic and casual wardrobes.
Another reason the term “high-top” has endured is its adaptability across different types of footwear. While most commonly associated with sneakers, the term applies to various shoe styles, including boots, skate shoes, and fashion-forward designs. For example, high-top Converse Chuck Taylors, Nike Air Force 1s, and Vans Sk8-Hi models are all considered high-tops due to their ankle-covering silhouette. Even in formal or military contexts, high-top boots follow the same naming logic—they are called “high” because they extend above the ankle.
In recent years, the resurgence of retro fashion has brought high-tops back into the spotlight. Vintage-inspired designs from the ’80s and ’90s are being re-released with modern technology, blending nostalgia with contemporary comfort. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have amplified the visibility of high-top sneakers, with influencers and collectors showcasing rare colorways and custom modifications. Limited releases and collaborations between brands and celebrities often feature high-top models, reinforcing their status as collectible items.
In conclusion, high-tops are called high-tops because of their elevated upper design that extends above the ankle. While the name is straightforward, the legacy and significance of these shoes are anything but simple. From their origins in early 20th-century athletics to their role in shaping music, fashion, and urban culture, high-tops represent a blend of function, style, and symbolism. Whether worn for performance, protection, or personal expression, high-top sneakers continue to stand tall—both literally and figuratively—in the ever-evolving world of footwear.