
8 Performance-Driven Sneakers That Are Now Streetwear Icons
Last Updated:
These sneakers are perfect examples of how performance-oriented designs can transcend their original purpose to become icons of streetwear culture
The evolution of sneakers in India has been nothing short of dramatic. What once began as an athletic obsession has now transformed into a full-blown cultural phenomenon. Sneakers have become a bridge between performance and style, making their way from the track to the street. With countless brands and models to choose from, here's a curated list of sneakers that have made the leap from high-performance footwear to streetwear staples.
1. New Balance 990v6
Originally designed for runners, the New Balance 990 series has steadily gained cult status among fashion enthusiasts for its blend of comfort and timeless design. The 990v6 continues this legacy, offering a sleek silhouette that works just as well on city streets as it does on running tracks. In India, Brandman Retail has been instrumental in bringing New Balance's iconic models to a broader audience.
2. Saucony Shadow 5000
Sneakerheads today crave a combination of comfort and style, and the Saucony Shadow 5000 delivers both. This model fuses retro aesthetics with modern features, making it a standout in the market. Its cushioned sole and breathable upper make it a top pick for those seeking fashion-forward functionality. Saucony's rising popularity in India is thanks in part to Brandman Retail, with availability on their official website.
3. Nike Air Max 1
First introduced in 1987, the Air Max 1 made history as the first shoe to showcase visible Air cushioning. Its groundbreaking design and exceptional comfort have helped it remain a timeless classic—loved by athletes and fashion lovers alike.
4. Adidas Ultraboost
If unparalleled comfort is what you're after, look no further. With its responsive Boost cushioning and breathable Primeknit upper, the Adidas Ultraboost started as a performance running shoe and has effortlessly transitioned into a streetwear must-have.
5. Puma Speedcat
Not all sneakers need to scream for attention—minimalism has carved out a space in modern fashion, and the Puma Speedcat fits right in. Originally made for motorsports, its low-profile build and sleek design have helped it gain cult status as a minimalist sneaker perfect for everyday wear.
6. On Running Cloud
Known for its distinct sole and featherlight build, the On Running Cloud stands out with its innovative design. Offering both performance and aesthetic appeal, it has become a favorite among athletes and city dwellers alike.
7. Timberland Euro Hiker
Think Timberland, and boots likely come to mind—but the Euro Hiker proves the brand can do much more. With its rugged build and surprising comfort, it's perfect for both outdoor trails and urban streets. Brandman Retail has played a pivotal role in bringing this hybrid classic to Indian sneaker fans.
8. Rockport Total Motion
Blending the elegance of dress shoes with the comfort of sneakers, the Rockport Total Motion series is a game-changer. Ideal for office wear or casual outings, it offers versatility without compromising on style or comfort.
These sneakers are perfect examples of how performance-oriented designs can transcend their original purpose to become icons of streetwear culture. With brands like New Balance, Saucony, Timberland, and Rockport expanding their presence, thanks to Brandman Retail, India's sneaker landscape continues to grow more dynamic and diverse.
About the Author
Lifestyle Desk
The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!
First Published:
June 07, 2025, 21:45 IST
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


India.com
a day ago
- India.com
Step Up Your Style Game – Limited-Time Sneaker Deals During Myntra End of Reason Sale!
Step into a season of unbeatable style and comfort with the Myntra End of Reason Sale, where you can grab up to 60% off on the latest footwear trends. From bold, performance-ready sneakers to elegant everyday staples, this curated selection is tailored for every step you take. Whether it's the retro vibe of New Balance 530s, the timeless elegance of Hush Puppies leather loafers, or the fashion-forward appeal of ASICS and CT300s, there's something for every personality. Now's the time to upgrade your shoe game with standout pieces that deliver on both design and performance. 1. New Balance Men 530 Abzorb Sneakers Image source - Order Now The New Balance 530 Abzorb Sneakers are a contemporary revival of a '90s running classic, offering a blend of retro aesthetics and advanced comfort features. Designed for both style-conscious individuals and those seeking everyday comfort, these sneakers are equipped with ABZORB cushioning technology, ensuring superior shock absorption and support. Whether you're navigating urban streets or enjoying casual outings, the 530s provide a reliable and stylish option. Key Features Made with ABZORB cushion that delivers exceptional shock absorption for enhanced comfort during daily activity and with rubber outsole it provides reliable traction for various surfaces. A retro design inspired by '90s running shoes, featuring a classic silhouette with modern updates with versatile styling that easily pairs with casual and semi-formal outfits, adding a touch of retro flair Comes with a breathable upper made with mesh and synthetic materials for improved ventilation and durability. Availability of color may be restricted in certain colorways, potentially limiting personal preferences. 2. Hush Puppies Men Leather Loafers Image source - Order Now Elevate your footwear collection with Hush Puppies Men's Leather Loafers, a perfect blend of classic design and modern comfort. Crafted from high-quality leather, these loafers offer durability and a polished look suitable for both formal and casual occasions. The slip-on design ensures convenience, while the cushioned insole provides all-day comfort. Whether you're heading to the office or enjoying a weekend outing, these loafers are versatile enough to complement various outfits. Key Features Made with premium leather upper that offers a sophisticated look and long-lasting durability with cushioned insoles that ensures comfort during a long day of use. Pairs well with both formal and casual attire giving the perfect versatile look and with slip-on design it Provides ease of wear without compromising on style. Quality craftsmanship reflects the renowned Hush Puppies commitment to excellence and perfection. The leather maintenance requires regular care to maintain its appearance and longevity 3. New Balance Unisex Woven Design CT300 Sneakers Image source - Order Now The New Balance CT300 Sneakers offer a stylish fusion of retro tennis aesthetics and contemporary comfort. Originally designed for the court, these sneakers have evolved into a versatile lifestyle choice, suitable for both athletic activities and casual wear. Their woven design adds a unique texture, setting them apart from traditional leather sneakers. Key Features Comes with Woven Textile Upper a design provides a breathable and flexible fit, enhancing comfort during wear and a classic court silhouette maintaining a timeless design, suitable for both athletic and casual settings. REVlite Midsole offers lightweight cushioning, ensuring responsive support without added bulk with durable rubber outsole that features a herringbone pattern, delivering excellent traction on various surfaces. Comes in unisex sizing designed to accommodate a wide range of foot sizes, making them a versatile option for many. The woven upper may require more care to maintain its appearance compared to traditional leather. Regular cleaning and proper storage are recommended. 4. ASICS Unisex Colourblocked Everyday Sneakers Image source - Order Now The ASICS Unisex Colourblocked Everyday Sneakers are a stylish fusion of retro aesthetics and modern comfort, designed for those who appreciate both fashion and functionality. Featuring a vibrant colourblocked design, these sneakers add a pop of personality to any outfit. Crafted with a breathable mesh upper and supportive midsole, they ensure comfort during daily activities. Whether you're running errands or meeting friends, these sneakers offer versatility and style. Key Features Colourblocked design adds a dynamic and fashionable look to your footwear collection with breathable mesh upper which enhances ventilation, keeping your feet cool and dry throughout the day. Durable rubber outsole offers reliable traction on various surfaces, ensuring safety and comfort with supportive midsoles providing cushioning and stability, making them suitable for extended wear. Comes with unisex sizing, designed to accommodate a wide range of foot sizes, making them a versatile option for many. Limited Color Options may not cater to all personal preferences and styles. Don't miss your chance to elevate your wardrobe with premium footwear picks during the Myntra End of Reason Sale. With discounts of up to 60%, these top-rated styles—from cushioned sneakers to sophisticated loafers—blend function and fashion seamlessly. Whether you're stepping out for errands or making a statement at brunch, these shoes offer support, durability, and on-trend aesthetics. Make the most of this limited-time offer and invest in pairs that promise to keep up with your lifestyle—all while keeping your look effortlessly stylish. Great shoes take you to great places, and now at even greater prices. Disclaimer: At IDPL, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. IDPL may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article.


India.com
2 days ago
- India.com
Unlock the Heat Before Anyone Else VIP Sneaker Club – Up to 40% Off
The Myntra End of Reason Sale (EORS) is back, and it's bigger than ever with the launch of the VIP Sneaker Club. Unlock up to 40% off on the season's hottest sneaker styles from iconic brands including Adidas, Puma, New Balance, and Lotto. Get early access to high-demand drops like the all-new Adidas evo SL, the stylish throwback Puma Palermo, and bold unisex silhouettes like the New Balance 327. Whether you're chasing hype or timeless design, EORS on Myntra is your exclusive ticket to top-tier sneaker fashion at unbeatable prices. 1. ADIDAS Originals Men Handball Spezial Everyday Sneakers Image soruce - Order Now The ADIDAS Originals Men Handball Spezial Sneakers blend classic style with modern comfort, inspired by the brand's rich sports heritage. Originally designed for indoor handball in the '70s, these sneakers have evolved into a fashion-forward staple for everyday wear. Their timeless design, quality craftsmanship, and street-ready look make them a versatile choice for casual outings and laid-back style. Key Features Retro-Inspired Design: Staying true to its heritage, the sneakers feature a vintage silhouette with iconic 3-Stripes and a low-profile build that adds a stylish, nostalgic flair. Premium Suede Upper: The high-quality suede upper not only enhances durability but also provides a soft, luxe feel that elevates casual outfits. Gum Rubber Outsole: A non-marking gum rubber outsole delivers excellent traction and grip, making it practical for both indoor and outdoor use Narrow Fit: The sneakers tend to run narrow, which may not be ideal for individuals with wider feet or those looking for a roomier toe box. 2. New Balance Unisex 327 Colourblocked Suede Sneakers Image source - Order Now The New Balance 327 Colourblocked Suede Sneakers combine bold design with retro inspiration, offering a modern twist on classic 1970s running shoes. With its eye-catching colorblocking, oversized "N" branding, and lightweight construction, the 327 is a standout unisex option for those seeking both comfort and a fashion-forward edge in their everyday footwear. Key Features Oversized 'N' Branding: The large New Balance logo on the lateral side adds a contemporary twist to the heritage silhouette, emphasizing the brand's iconic look. EVA Midsole Cushioning: Lightweight EVA foam offers responsive cushioning and day-long comfort, ideal for both casual wear and light activity. Lugged Rubber Outsole: Inspired by trail running shoes, the studded outsole ensures excellent grip and traction on various surfaces while enhancing the retro-athletic vibe. Limited Arch Support: While comfortable for casual use, the 327 may lack sufficient arch support for those with high arches or specific foot support needs during extended wear. 3. Puma Palermo Lth Unisex Sneakers Image source - Order Now The Puma Palermo Lth Unisex Sneakers are a stylish revival of an '80s terrace classic, combining retro aesthetics with modern comfort. Featuring a leather and suede upper, gum rubber sole, and signature branding, these sneakers offer a versatile look suitable for various occasions. Whether you're dressing up or down, the Palermo Lth provides a timeless design that complements any wardrobe. Key Features Retro-Inspired Design: The Palermo Lth draws inspiration from the '80s terrace culture, featuring a classic silhouette that has been reintroduced to meet contemporary fashion trends. Premium Leather and Suede Upper: Crafted with a combination of leather and suede, the upper provides durability and a premium feel, ensuring long-lasting wear. Gum Rubber Outsole: The gum rubber outsole not only adds to the retro aesthetic but also offers excellent traction and grip, making it suitable for various surfaces. Limited Arch Support: Some users have reported that the Palermo Lth lacks sufficient arch support, which may affect comfort during extended periods of walking or standing. 4. New Balance Unisex 327 Colourblocked Suede Sneakers Image source - Order Now The New Balance 327 Colourblocked Suede Sneakers seamlessly blend retro aesthetics with contemporary design, drawing inspiration from 1970s running shoes. Featuring bold color combinations and an oversized "N" logo, these sneakers offer a stylish yet comfortable option for daily wear. Their lightweight construction and breathable materials make them a versatile choice for various occasions. Key Features Premium Suede and Nylon Upper:Crafted with a combination of suede and nylon, the upper provides durability and breathability, ensuring comfort throughout the day. Lightweight Construction: The sneakers are designed to be lightweight, reducing foot fatigue and making them suitable for extended wear. Versatile Styling: The 327's design makes it easy to pair with a range of outfits, from casual jeans to athletic wear, offering versatility for different occasions. Limited Arch Support: Some users have noted that the 327 may lack sufficient arch support, which could affect comfort during extended periods of walking or standing. As the End of Reason Sale takes over Myntra, now is your chance to join the sneaker elite. With VIP access to high-heat releases and unbeatable discounts, the EORS VIP Sneaker Club lets you own sneakers that stand out. From the classic cool of Adidas Handball Spezial to the heritage-meets-modern Puma Palermo, and the bold style of New Balance 327, there's something for every sneaker lover. With limited stock, fresh styles, and celebrity-backed campaigns, don't wait—this EORS, step in before everyone else does. Hype waits for no one. Disclaimer: At IDPL, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. IDPL may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article.


News18
5 days ago
- News18
8 Performance-Driven Sneakers That Are Now Streetwear Icons
Last Updated: These sneakers are perfect examples of how performance-oriented designs can transcend their original purpose to become icons of streetwear culture The evolution of sneakers in India has been nothing short of dramatic. What once began as an athletic obsession has now transformed into a full-blown cultural phenomenon. Sneakers have become a bridge between performance and style, making their way from the track to the street. With countless brands and models to choose from, here's a curated list of sneakers that have made the leap from high-performance footwear to streetwear staples. 1. New Balance 990v6 Originally designed for runners, the New Balance 990 series has steadily gained cult status among fashion enthusiasts for its blend of comfort and timeless design. The 990v6 continues this legacy, offering a sleek silhouette that works just as well on city streets as it does on running tracks. In India, Brandman Retail has been instrumental in bringing New Balance's iconic models to a broader audience. 2. Saucony Shadow 5000 Sneakerheads today crave a combination of comfort and style, and the Saucony Shadow 5000 delivers both. This model fuses retro aesthetics with modern features, making it a standout in the market. Its cushioned sole and breathable upper make it a top pick for those seeking fashion-forward functionality. Saucony's rising popularity in India is thanks in part to Brandman Retail, with availability on their official website. 3. Nike Air Max 1 First introduced in 1987, the Air Max 1 made history as the first shoe to showcase visible Air cushioning. Its groundbreaking design and exceptional comfort have helped it remain a timeless classic—loved by athletes and fashion lovers alike. 4. Adidas Ultraboost If unparalleled comfort is what you're after, look no further. With its responsive Boost cushioning and breathable Primeknit upper, the Adidas Ultraboost started as a performance running shoe and has effortlessly transitioned into a streetwear must-have. 5. Puma Speedcat Not all sneakers need to scream for attention—minimalism has carved out a space in modern fashion, and the Puma Speedcat fits right in. Originally made for motorsports, its low-profile build and sleek design have helped it gain cult status as a minimalist sneaker perfect for everyday wear. 6. On Running Cloud Known for its distinct sole and featherlight build, the On Running Cloud stands out with its innovative design. Offering both performance and aesthetic appeal, it has become a favorite among athletes and city dwellers alike. 7. Timberland Euro Hiker Think Timberland, and boots likely come to mind—but the Euro Hiker proves the brand can do much more. With its rugged build and surprising comfort, it's perfect for both outdoor trails and urban streets. Brandman Retail has played a pivotal role in bringing this hybrid classic to Indian sneaker fans. 8. Rockport Total Motion Blending the elegance of dress shoes with the comfort of sneakers, the Rockport Total Motion series is a game-changer. Ideal for office wear or casual outings, it offers versatility without compromising on style or comfort. These sneakers are perfect examples of how performance-oriented designs can transcend their original purpose to become icons of streetwear culture. With brands like New Balance, Saucony, Timberland, and Rockport expanding their presence, thanks to Brandman Retail, India's sneaker landscape continues to grow more dynamic and diverse. About the Author Lifestyle Desk The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! First Published: June 07, 2025, 21:45 IST