If the past few months have taught us anything about the trainer trends set to unfold over the seasons ahead, it’s to expect the unexpected. From every angle, designers are pushing the boundaries, reimagining designs with the unbridled joy that was pushed aside as more “serious”, streamlined garments and footwear dominated collections and a focus on ’90s minimalism and quiet luxury came to the fore.
However, 2025 is seeing a return to more playful fashion, with personality pieces being reintroduced into runway collections. That said, that’s never been an issue for many social dressers who have decidedly unique personal style and have long championed individuality through their wares. And one of their preferred ways to do so has been through their trainer choices. Over the past few months, ballet trainers, laceless styles and colourful pairs have entered style circles, but none have taken me by surprise quite as much as the boxing trainer trend.
Dubbed the boxing trainer owning to their resemblence to the shoes worn by professional boxers, these kicks are designed with a high-top cut that far exceeds the height of the Converse trainers I wore throughout my teens—in fact, 2025’s iterations can extend all the way up to the knee, hugging the calf and lacing neatly around the foot. Set on a slim sole, these trainers are designed with agility in mind and created to meet the specific demands of boxing—something that we see mimicked in the fashion pairs on the market.
(Image credit: Launchmetrics)
A model wears boxer trainers on the Dior spring/summer 2025 runway.
While this trend might seem unlikely to appeal to the masses, the runways are telling a different story. Heavily influenced by sporting silhouettes, Dior’s spring/summer 2025 collection saw an emphasis on movement, that styled models in skintight body leotards, racer jackets and mesh track pants. Elevating the ordinary, Dior skipped classic plimsolls, instead styling knee-high—and over-the-knee—boxing shoes throughout its collection.
(Image credit: Launchmetrics)
A model wears boxing trainers on the Stella McCartney spring/summer 2025 runway.
Not stopping with Dior, Stella McCartney sent white knee-high boxing boots down its alfresco runway, styling them with fresh white and cream layers for a lifting effect, moving the trend forward from sporting connotations so heavily associated with the shoes.
I have to admit, I was a little bit sceptical when I first saw the boxing trainer surface, but I have been impressed at the way others have readily adopted the trend, namely Gen Z. Already in the wardrobe of model Gabbriette, the influencer has added a knee-high style from Adidas into her capsule wardrobe and already appears to be an expert at styling them. Pairing them with a black minidress, she wore hers in exactly the kind of effortlessly cool way I expect we’ll see others emulate this season.
Am I sold? This millennial might take a little longer to warm up to the idea than my Gen Z counterparts, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a trend I deem important for 2025. In fact, I think the boxing trainer will be the catalyst for a very dynamic year in fashion and I can’t wait to see which other pieces follow this lead.
If you’re already on board, scroll on to discover the trainer trend with some very stylish stamps of approval and to shop my edit of best boxing trainers.
SHOP BOXING TRAINERS
Adidas
Rasant Leather-Trimmed Cow-Print Calf Hair Sneakers
Trust me—fashion people will make sure these don’t stay in stock for long.
Onitsuka Tiger
Mexico Mid Runner
These have a shorter high top for a more relaxed finish.
Adidas
Rasant Mid Women’s
Add a pop of colour to your winter wardrobe.
Adidas
Japan H Grosgrain and Suede-Trimmed Canvas High-Top Sneakers
Style with a flowing skirt or wear these underneath your favourite jeans.
Adidas
Japan H Suede-Trimmed Canvas High-Top Sneakers
These are inspired by the brands archival boxing boots.
Converse
Chuck Taylor All Star Trainers
These also come in white as well as an entirely black style.
Ann Demeulemeester
Black Juno High-Top Boxing Sneakers
Be quick—these are well on their way to selling out.
You can personalise your boots by adding your name or number.
Puma
Speedcat Mid Sneakers Unisex
