The torpedo sneakers are what the fashion girlies are wearing now

Shelf your Sambas and bring out your Speedcats

Photo: Getty Images
Photo: Getty Images
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In the ever-shifting landscape of sneaker culture, we’ve witnessed the pendulum swing from chunky, maximalist designs to something decidedly more refined. Enter the “torpedo” sneaker – a style defined by its sleek silhouette, slim sole, and distinctively streamlined toe-box that curves like a bull terrier’s profile.

The Adidas Samba stands as the undisputed pioneer of this movement. Step onto any street today, and you’re bound to spot these iconic shoes, their understated elegance a stark contrast to the oversized sneakers that dominated recent years. While the Samba blazed the trail, Puma quickly recognized the shifting winds, reviving their classic Speedcat to meet the growing appetite for streamlined footwear.

Fun fact: The Puma Speedcats were originally created in 1998, a fireproof version for F1 drivers, then in 1999, a commercial release.

Credit: Puma

This wasn’t just a two-brand race. The success of the Samba and Speedcat triggered a broader industry shift, with numerous brands crafting their own interpretations of the torpedo silhouette. The appeal lies in the details: the minimalist sole that keeps you close to the ground, the purposeful curve of the toebox, and an overall design that suggests motion even at a standstill.

For those looking to stay ahead of the curve, here are some standout torpedo sneakers worth considering...

Adidas Taekwondo Shoes

Taekwondo Shoes

Credit: Adidas

Adidas Tokyo Shoes

Tokyo Shoes

Credit: Adidas

Adidas Rasant Sneakers

Rasant Sneakers

Credit: Farfetch

Puma x Fenty Avanti LS

FENTY x PUMA AVANTI LS Sneakers

Credit: Puma

Nike Cortez SE Leather “Tiempo Pack”

Cortez “Tiempo Pack - Metallic Cool Grey/Gum Dark Brown/Black”

Credit: Farfetch

Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD

MEXICO 66 SD

Credit: Onitsuka Tiger

Miu Miu x New Balance

New Balance X Miu Miu 530 SL suede sneakers

Credit: Miu Miu

Jacquemus, The Tennis

The Tennis

Credit: Jacquemus

Prada, Suede Sneakers

Collapse Re-Nylon and suede sneakers

Credit: Prada
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