Up until recently, if you spotted sneakers in any fashion capacity, nine times out of 10, they were a pair from New Balance—either 990v5s or 550s. But after one too many sightings of a new, fresher-looking sneaker style on street style stars, runway models, and Instagram influencers alike, I'm beginning to think a changing of the guards is upon us. And of course, the charge is led by Bella Hadid.
On Friday, the supermodel was spotted leaving the gym in New York City wearing an oversize Nike polo shirt as a dress, mid-calf athletic socks, and a pair of bright-red Salomon hiking-and-running sneakers. Her pair, called the XT-4 Advanced Sneakers, features a drawstring closure and costs just under $250, with prices ranging from $210 to $242. Given Hadid's influential status, her exact colorway sold out pretty much immediately. (On GOAT, pairs are selling for up to $400.) Luckily, there are plenty of other shades still on the market.
On Bella Hadid: Nike top; Dior Your Dior 2 Sunglasses ($174); Mondo Mondo Lover Earrings ($245); Salomon S/Lab XT-4 Advanced Sneakers ($320)
But Hadid isn't the only unofficial ambassador of the outdoorsy sneakers. Not only has the French brand received stamps of approval by It girls like New York City–based stylist and editor Michelle Li and Copenhagen-based stylist Emili Sindlev, but it's also made its way to the runway. During New York Fashion Week, Instagram-favorite designer Sandy Liang paired tiny cardigans, satin miniskirts, and low-rise cargo pants with Salomon sneakers, thus ensuring them a long future in the industry—and our wardrobes.
Ahead, shop Hadid's go-to sneakers for 2021 and more gorpcore styles.
On Emili Sindlev: Prada earrings; Louis Vuitton bag; Salomon sneakers
On Michelle Li: Réalisation The Lou Dress ($240); Osoi bag; Bonnie Clyde Shy Guy Sunglasses ($180); Salomon sneakers
Shop Hadid's Sneakers in Other Colors
*Adds to cart*
If there's one thing we learned during lockdown, it was the timeless nature of tie-dye.
White sneakers are the epitome of classic.
Embrace louder sneakers with this pink-and-purple ombré style.
Shop More Gorpcore Sneakers I Love
Prepare for plenty of questions about where you got these.
Comfort is a guarantee with these.
A perfect example of simple not meaning boring.
You'll never again have to pack separate workout and fashion sneakers if you have a pair of these.
We love a subtle pop of color.
Another argument for using drawstrings as opposed to laces.
Salomon isn't the only brand bringing gorpcore styles into fashion. Balenciaga, too, loves an outdoorsy sneaker silhouette.
Hint: These aren't just for trail running.
A new kind of dad sneakers.
As an On loyalist, I can say with certainty that these are a must.
Next, read about the eight biggest shoe trends of fall 2021.
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These Are the Surprising Shoe Trends Gen Z Is Styling With Everyday Outfits for the Rest of 2025Niche, weird, and unconventional.
