After years dominated by visible technology, thick soles, and futuristic designs in the sneaker scene, flat sneakers are slowly but surely making a comeback. These so-called flat-soled sneakers are light, low, and practical, perfectly matching the current preference for simplicity, comfort, and recognizable shapes.
Flat is back
Pinpointing the exact start of this shift is difficult, but some classic models have clearly paved the way. Take the adidas Samba — perhaps the most well-known example. Although the Samba has been part of adidas’s lineup for decades, in 2025 we see countless new variations with the same flat silhouette.
Thanks to collaborations with designers like Wales Bonner, the model has also gained a fresh, fashion-forward look.
PUMA also plays an important role in this movement. The Speedcat, a motorsport model from the early 2000s, features an extremely flat sole and a sleek, streamlined profile. In today’s fashion spirit, where subtlety and retro influences come together, this model feels more relevant than ever.
Besides these classics, other models from the archives have also experienced a revival. adidas brought back the Taekwondo Mei, as well as the adidas Tokyo — originally designed for the Olympic Games. Both shoes feature light, clean designs that fit seamlessly into today’s streetwear scene.
A Fresh Twist
At the same time, brands are also daring to innovate within this flat design language. For example, Wales Bonner collaborated with adidas to create the Karnitha Sequin ‘Silver Brown’ — a sneaker that stays true to the DNA of the Samba but is crafted with shiny materials and warm colors.
PUMA reintroduced the eccentric Mostro, featuring a flexible sole, spikes, and an asymmetrical strap. Although bold in shape, the model remains functional and feels anything but retro — more like a forward-thinking design with a clear purpose.
Even brands known for their robust silhouettes are tapping into this trend. New Balance, for example, temporarily swapped their comfortable, often chunky models for a flatter silhouette in their successful collaboration with Miu Miu.
The result: an elegant, minimalist sneaker that moves away from the volume of previous years.
Balenciaga Zero Takes the Crown
Balenciaga, a pioneer of maximalism in recent years, surprised in 2025 with the Balenciaga Zero — a smooth, seamless design with an almost abstract appearance. The sole is nearly invisible, emphasizing the design itself rather than the volume beneath.
This flat trend isn’t limited to sneakers. Loafers, ballerinas, and other flat shoes are also on the rise. They’re styled with socks, sporty outfits, or minimalist basics. Although the style varies per shoe, they all fit within the same movement: light, low, and understated.
Online Hype
The growing popularity of flat-soled sneakers is partly a reaction to the overload of bold designs in recent years. Thick soles and visible technology dominated for a long time, but now there seems to be a clear demand for calm and simplicity. The younger generation focuses less on hype and more on wearable, subtle styles that support the rest of an outfit rather than overshadow it.
On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, you’re increasingly seeing sneakers that don’t scream for attention but instead leave room for other style elements. The flat profile doesn’t feel like a limitation — rather, it’s a deliberate choice that fits sporty roots and a timeless style.
Even Flatter?
What the future holds is hard to predict. Will soles get even flatter, or have we reached some kind of minimum? Will brands experiment with textures and shapes within this flat aesthetic? Or will there be a revival of the chunky era, bringing a new wave of dad shoes?
Whatever happens — one thing is certain: the flat sneaker is back and isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Flat-soled sneakers are shoes with a completely flat sole. They often have a classic look and are valued for their simplicity and comfort.
