Balenciaga‘s Track Sneaker has been subjected to dozens of renditions, appearing in its original form, a strappy sandal, a slide, and it has even been immortalized in silver, but now it appears in arguably its most divisive style yet: a hybrid sneaker-boot.
Dubbed the Track Hike, the house’s latest Demna Gvasalia-designed offering truly is a hybrid that serves both form and function. The archetype Track design elements are all there: a nylon and mesh upper, plenty of branding (on the tongue, toe, lateral front quarter, “Track” stamping on the heel, sizing on the toe box), those two-toned laces, the interwoven paneled design. Yet, the recipe has been elevated, giving it a boot-like aesthetic thanks to its extended tongue and collar section.
The rugged look is achieved with small details, like the metal D-locks for the laces that have been placed towards the top of the shoe. Its sole unit is naturally chunky, which coupled with its propulsion technology gives the boot a futuristic look but a genuinely functional design focus. On the inside, you’ll find nothing but padding and branding.
Balenciaga has dropped the Track Hike in both black and white colorways, however, they are sold out for pre-order as of writing. The $1,050 USD sneaker-boot hybrid is expected to come back in stock, so keep an eye on Balenciaga’s website for that next drop.
For more rugged footwear, check out the HOKA ONE ONE TenNine in black.
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