What are sneaker loafers and why is every footwear brand making a pair?
It started with New Balance, but now Hoka, Puma and others are all in on this surprising new shoe trend.
This is the sneaker loafer that started it all. Based on New Balance’s 1906 silhouette, the 1906L blends performance DNA with a loafer-like upper — a mix that looks strange at first but grows on you fast. The design is so popular it often sells out.
The Hoka Speed Loafer feels even more ludicrous than the New Balance model thanks to its classic Hoka chunky sole and the clever little tassels at the top of the shoe. It’s like someone asked a marathon runner to create their ideal version of a sneaker made for a black tie dinner. It has a suede trim and leather upper and refers to the Hoka Speedgoat 5, the brand’s trail running shoe.
The Sophyr Loafyr (yes, that’s the name) features a leather upper, mesh lining, and trail-style outsole. It’s rugged and performance-forward, with a logo cut-out strap that leans sporty over sleek.
More aligned with hiking sneakers than business casual, this hybrid shoe features a Vibram sole and a rubberized toe cap for grip and durability. It’s the most outdoorsy option here — odd but practical.
The other sneaker loafers on this list are more aggressive in their approach to hybridization. This G.H. Bass model is much more inoffensive and easy to digest, which, depending on the person, could be a welcome sight. These have a rubber sole, breathable lining and leather upper, according to the brand.
I am an editor at NBC Select who writes and edits stories on various topics including tech, apparel, home and more. I have covered major shopping holidays and other events for over five years. For this article, I rounded up my favorite sneaker loafers from NBC Select favorite brands.
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