The torpedo sneakers are what the fashion girlies are wearing now
Shelf your Sambas and bring out your Speedcats
By Jae Won Jeon -
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.
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
Adidas Tokyo Shoes
Tokyo Shoes
Adidas Rasant Sneakers
Rasant Sneakers
Puma x Fenty Avanti LS
FENTY x PUMA AVANTI LS Sneakers
Nike Cortez SE Leather “Tiempo Pack”
Cortez “Tiempo Pack - Metallic Cool Grey/Gum Dark Brown/Black”
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD
MEXICO 66 SD
Miu Miu x New Balance
New Balance X Miu Miu 530 SL suede sneakers
Jacquemus, The Tennis
The Tennis
Prada, Suede Sneakers
Collapse Re-Nylon and suede sneakers